Expert Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation

A sump pump is a device installed in your basement or crawl space, usually in conjunction with a French drain, to pump water flow out and away from your home’s foundation. Even if you live in an area that doesn’t rain often, having a sump pump in your basement or crawl space will save you significant headache and expense when it does rain.

Sump pumps can also prevent groundwater from building up under your foundation, preventing gradual structure damage.

Here’s how it works:

1. Water drains into a pit or basin in your basement or crawl space.
2. The sump pump gets activated when the water reaches a certain level.
3. The sump pump starts pumping the water out of the basin through a hose, out and away from your house’s foundation.

Before making the investment, do you really need a sump pump in your basement or crawl space? Here are a few things to consider:

Previous water problems and damage

If your basement or crawl space is prone to flooding, even with good gutters and water drainage systems, you will want to install a sump pump to keep everything dry and secure under your home.

Location of your house

Whether your home is situated in a flood zone, on a flat plot with little drainage, on soil that doesn’t drain well, or in a region with frequent rains, flooding, or snow, a sump pump can be another line of defense against flooding and water damage in your basement or crawl space.

Finished basement and/or storage

If you have a finished basement, go ahead and install a sump pump. A flooded basement is bad enough without ruining a finished space with carpeting, furniture, and storage.

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible pumps and pedestal pumps. Submersible sump pumps can be submerged, motor and all, in your sump basin. Pedestal pumps sit above the sump basin, keeping the device above water level and are ideal for small basins.

Not sure which type you need? Crawlspace Medic makes the whole process easy, from selection to installation.

Because sump pumps rely on electricity, a battery backup sump pump makes sure your basement or crawl space stays dry even if the power goes out. And that’s usually when you need a sump pump most! Just know that not all backup sump pumps are battery-operated. You’ll want a battery backup sump pump specifically.