How a Sump Pump Can Help Your Ohio Home
Water can do serious damage to your home, resulting in costly cleanup, structural damage, mold and mildew issues, poor indoor air quality and chronic health issues. Installing a sump pump can protect your home from the damage caused by water infiltration.
Benefits of a Sump Pump
A sump pump, installed in a specially constructed sump pit in the lowest part of your basement, pumps water away from your home to keep the space underneath dry. Sump pumps:
- Keep the area under your home dry and prevent flooding
- Prevent mold and mildew growth due to moisture
- Protect indoor air quality from moisture-related health hazards
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Sump pumps rest in a pit with a gravel base about 2 feet deep and 18 inches wide. Sump pumps are typically covered to prevent people and objects from falling into water and interfering with pump operation. Water flows into the pit through drains in your basement or crawl space or naturally migrates through the soil from precipitation and other causes. Float activators or pressure sensors turn the pump on automatically to move liquid to a location away from your foundation. Check valves keep water from flowing back into the pit. There are two common types, submersible and pedestal pumps, which are less expensive but louder than submersible. As it is in or near water, it’s best to have your pump professionally installed and grounded with a GFCI outlet to prevent electrocution.
The Likelihood of Water Damage
More than 60 percent of U.S. homes suffer from below-ground wetness, and many homeowners are likely to deal with a flooded basement at some time. Sadly, even a small amount of water can cause serious damage and create indoor air quality issues. Sump pumps have been common in homes for years and today are common in newly constructed houses.
To protect your home from water damage or for more information about whether a sump pump is right for your home, contact Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. Family owned and operated since 1910, our professional team offers the best customer service in the greater Cincinnati area.
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