What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is used in basements or crawlspaces to help keep the area dry and prevent it from flooding. Sump pumps are installed in specially constructed areas called sump pits.
The typical sump pit measures between 15 and 18 inches across and around 2 feet deep.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

When a sump pit fills with water, it reaches a set level on the pump, activating a switch and automatically turning on the sump pump. Most sump pumps use a centrifugal pump with an impeller to move water within the pit. As the impeller pushes the water out of the pit, more water flows in to fill the void, forcing water out through the pipe in the sump pit. A check valve in this pipe blocks the water from flowing back in so it flows into the outflow pipe and away from the building.

Pumps for Sewage and Septic Systems

Sewage Pumps: Instead of ridding your basement of water, sewage pumps move solid waste into a septic or sewage system. Sewage ejector pumps are mounted into basins in septic systems and pumps any collected debris up to the main sewer line. Sewage grinder pumps grind solid waste into smaller particles so it can be pumped into a sewage system.
Effluent Pumps: By using a high head combined with high pressure, effluent pumps help lift treated water out of septic tanks.

Maintaining Your Sump Pump

Here are some sump pump maintenance tips to make sure it’s ready in the event of a flood or water issue:
Three to four times per year:
● Pour enough water in the sump pit to make sure that it turns on if it has not been run in a while.
● Clean the filter screen of debris that can clog and damage the pump.
Every year:
● Remove and clean any debris from the pump.
● Make sure the sump pit itself is cleaned so that clogs don’t form.

Now that you know more about how sump pumps work, you can pick the right one for your facility.