A sump pump is an essential appliance for homeowners in Endicott, NY who have basements prone to flooding. As a low-lying area, excess rainwater can accumulate around the foundation and seep into the basement. Installing a quality sump pump system is the best way to keep your basement dry all year long.
This guide from the expert plumbers at Action Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning will walk you through everything you need to know about sump pump installation in Endicott, NY. We'll cover how sump pumps work, what to look for when shopping for one, where to install it, and tips for maintenance.
How Do Sump Pumps Work?
A sump pump is designed to remove excess water that collects in a sump basin or crock located in the lowest part of your basement. The sump basin acts as a holding tank for water. The pump itself has an inlet to suck water into the unit and an outlet to discharge the water away from your home.
Sump pumps work automatically when the water level gets high enough to trigger the pump's float switch. Once activated, the sump pump will run until the water is lowered past the shut-off point. The cycle repeats each time the sump fills back up.
Some key components of a sump pump system include:
- Sump basin - Collects water draining into the basement
- Sump pump - Detects water level and pumps it out
- Discharge pipe - Transports water away from the home
- Check valve - Prevents backflow into the sump basin
- Float switch - Turns the pump on and off
Choosing the right size sump pump and basin for your basement's water issues is critical for proper functioning. Our plumbers can assess your unique needs and recommend the ideal system.
What to Look For When Buying a Sump Pump
When purchasing a new sump pump for your Endicott NY home, there are several key factors to consider:
- Pump capacity - Measured in gallons per hour (gph), this determines how quickly the pump can evacuate water. For wet basements, look for at least 45 gph.
- Horsepower - Higher horsepower motors can handle more water. 1/3 HP is sufficient for most homes, while 1/2 HP provides extra power.
- Power source - Both battery backup and plug-in electric models are available. Battery pumps kick in when the power goes out.
- Materials - Cast iron motors last the longest. Pumps with thermoplastic components are more affordable.
- Float switch - Mechanical floats are simple and reliable. Electronic floats don't require as much movement to activate.
- Alarm - Sounds if the pump stops working, letting you know there's an issue.
- Brand name - Trusted brands like Zoeller and Liberty offer better quality and warranties.
Be sure to get a sump pump sized appropriately for the square footage of your basement. Our plumbers can recommend the optimal pump size and type for your home in Endicott.
Where to Install a Sump Pump System
Sump pump installation is best handled by a professional plumber, like those at Action Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning. However, it's good to understand the basic steps involved:
- A sump basin is installed in the lowest spot, usually a basement corner. The basin should be lined with gravel and a sump liner.
- The pump outlet pipe runs horizontally to a nearby drain, such as a floor drain or sink drain. If no drain is close, the pipe can exit through the foundation wall.
- A flexible discharge hose connects the pump to the outlet pipe. Check valves prevent backflow.
- The float switch hangs inside the sump basin and plugs into the pump. When water rises, the float triggers the pump to start.
- Grounding wires, piping insulation, and watertight lids complete the installation. The system should be tested before completion.
Proper placement is critical to optimize sump pump performance. Our team will locate the ideal spot in your basement to install the sump basin during a professional installation.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sump Pump
Routine maintenance keeps your sump pump running smoothly all year long. Here are some key maintenance tips our plumbers recommend:
- Inspect monthly - Check that the pump turns on when water is added and shuts off appropriately. Examine for cracks or leaks.
- Test the float switch - Lift the switch up and down to ensure it activates the pump. The switch should move freely without obstruction.
- Clear debris - Remove any dirt, leaves, or other debris from the sump basin. Debris can impede pump operation.
- Check the discharge pipe - Inspect that water flows freely and that there are no kinks or cracks. Ice buildup in winter can block the line.
- Install a backup pump - Backup pumps provide redundancy if your main pump fails. Test backup pumps regularly too.
- Change the impeller - Impellers wear out over time and should be replaced every 3-5 years.
Keeping your sump pump well-maintained prevents flooding and expensive water damage, especially during snow melts and periods of heavy rain. Our team of plumbers can handle all your sump pump servicing needs in Endicott, NY.
Why Choose Action Plumbing, Heating & Air for Sump Pump Installation?
When it's time to install or replace your sump pump in Endicott, trust the experts at Action Plumbing, Heating & Air. In business since 1978, we are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Our team has decades of experience tackling plumbing issues exactly like yours.
We pride ourselves on quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Our plumbers undergo continuing education and training to stay current on the latest techniques and safety standards. We offer upfront pricing with no hidden fees. All our work is fully guaranteed.
For new sump pump installations, we take the time to properly size, select, and position the pump for optimal performance. We can customize the system to match your home's needs and basement size. Safety and long-term reliability are our top priorities.
For sump pump replacements, we'll properly remove and dispose of the old pump. We'll address any issues with the existing setup and make recommendations to enhance the new system. Upgrading to a higher capacity or backup pump provides even better protection.
We also offer maintenance plans and emergency repair services 24/7. Our dispatchers and plumbers are always available if your sump pump unexpectedly fails during a storm. We have all makes and models of sump pumps in stock for quick replacements.
Contact Action Plumbing, Heating & Air in Endicott, NY today at (607) 205-1177 to schedule affordable sump pump installation or repair. We serve customers across the Binghamton region. Call now to keep your basement dry this season!
