April 17, 2024
Sump Pumps and Preparing for the Rainy Season
Summer can mean heavy rainfall–even in arid Colorado. Last season, an unusually large amount of rainfall in the Denver metro area caught many homeowners unprepared. They experienced an overwhelming amount of water flooding their basements. Some suffered extensive water damage. Now is the time to make sure your home is ready!
How Sump Pumps Work
A sump pump can be a great solution to prevent floods. Sump pumps move water from your basement to an area a safe distance from your home, reducing the risk of water damage or necessary repairs. Sump pumps can also further protect your sewer line from being damaged by excessive rain.
The sump pump is installed by a licensed plumber in a constructed pit, called a basin. The pump has a sensor so when water reaches a certain level, the excess water is removed through a discharge line, called an effluent.
Selecting a sump pump with the appropriate amount of power is necessary and Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric recommends that you have a qualified plumber assess your system needs. A pump with insufficient power leaves you at risk of flooding, while too much power reduces the lifespan of the sump pump. After the perils of last summer, ensure that your system is working and able to handle the influx of water before the rains come.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Applewood advises homeowners to have annual maintenance checks of your sump pump, especially if you notice unusual odors, noises, rust or water in your basement. You can test your sump pump NOW to make sure it is functioning properly by pouring a bucket of water into the pump.
A licensed Applewood plumber can perform a professional and detailed inspection and maintenance of your sump pump that includes a thorough pit inspection, a review of the pump’s check valve, a review of the power source and backup power source, alarm function and testing, inspection of the unit’s cover and fit, and review of the discharge location. Schedule your appointment with a licensed Applewood plumber today!
Other ways to prepare for summer rains include inspecting your home’s foundation for signs of cracking, evaluating roof runoff, and cleaning gutters. It is also a good idea to make sure your landscaping and property grading direct water away from your home’s foundation.
