The majority of residential sump pumps are connected to the home’s main electrical system via hardwiring or a wall outlet. However, in the event of a storm or power outage, these systems can lose power, which is why they usually have a backup battery to ensure the home is not plagued by the problems of a downed sump pump. There are two main types of residential sump pumps:
- Pedestal Sump Pumps: These sump pumps are mounted and placed above the sump pump pit, allowing for easy access that facilitates service and testing demands.
- Submersible Sump Pumps: Submersible sump pumps are placed inside a sump pit or a well and kept out of sight, making them less of an eyesore but more of an inconvenience to access when it comes to service and testing.
Key Sump Pump Facts
There are two very important facts homeowners should know about their residential sump pumps that help them better understand and detect the signs that residential sump pump repairs are needed. These facts are:
- Sump pumps have a float switch that is triggered once the water rises to a pre-set level. Once the water achieves this level, the sump pump automatically begins draining the water into the nearest storm drain, outdoor area, or well.
- It’s essential to ensure your sump pump is fitted with a battery-powered water-level alarm. A battery-powered water-level alarm aids in warning you if the sump pump is malfunctioning, allowing you to detect potential floods before they cause damage and discomfort to your home.