A sump pump is a device used to remove water that has accumulated in a basement or a low-lying area of a building. It is typically installed in a sump pit, which is a small, cylindrical hole dug in the basement floor. When the water in the pit reaches a certain level, the sump pump turns on and pumps the water out of the pit and away from the building.
Sump pumps are often used in areas where flooding is common or in buildings that are built on a water table. They can help prevent water damage to a building's foundation, walls, and belongings.
There are two main types of sump pumps: pedestal pumps and submersible pumps. Pedestal pumps have the motor located above the sump pit, while submersible pumps have the motor inside the pit. Submersible pumps are generally quieter and more efficient, but they can be more expensive than pedestal pumps.
It's important to properly maintain your sump pump by regularly checking and cleaning the sump pit, testing the pump to ensure it's working properly, and replacing the pump as needed. A backup battery or generator should also be installed in case of a power outage, as sump pumps rely on electricity to operate.