How to select the best sump pump

Homes with basements and low water tables are in need of sump pumps. These help in discharging water so as to prevent damages. The sump pump is easily installed with household tools.

Choose between an automatic or manually operated sump pump based upon the amount of water that requires removal.

Base Type

Sump pumps come either with stand mounts or are submersible. The former sump pump uses a float system to turn the pump on and drain water from the area. It is also is cheaper when compared to a submersible pump.

However, it must also be mounted so as to prevent the motor from getting wet. On the other hand, the submersible feature of the latter makes it ideal for a basement area that floods during the rainy season. Submersible pumps make minimal noise- if at all.

Furthermore, they last longer than the pedestal-mounted pumps and are safer in homes with children.

Also Read: Why every homeowner needs a sump pump

Horsepower

The sump pump horsepower determines lift and the amount of water removed per hour. As such, be sure to select a pump with the area of water in mind. For instance, a pump with a greater distance to discharge the water will require more horsepower for the same.

Notably, most basements in standard homes require a sump pump with 1/3 horsepower. Review the specifications of each sump pump to select the one that meets your needs. This information is mostly found in the manufacturer’s documents that come with the sump pump upon purchase.

Capacitive Switch

The sump-pump switch regulates the sump pump, turning it on or off.  Basically, go for a pump with a capacitive switch. This will help in hassle-free automatic operation. Sump pumps come with a variety of switches for this purpose. Some sump pumps operate automatically, while others must be turned on manually.

Pumps equipped with capacitive switches have a chip that measures the water level. This turns the pump on when the water reaches the preset level in the sump basin. Moreover, a capacitive switch does not have any mechanical parts that wear out. This guarantees durability of the same.

Other Switches

Select a sump-pump with a perpendicular switch that mechanically turns the sump pump on or off automatically. Such switches move vertically to turn the sump pump on at a preset level. A pump with a vertical switch fits in small places. However, it must be free of obstructions. Another switch type is the diaphragm switch which uses the water pressure level to send a signal to the pump.

Durability

Choose the sump pump with resistant housing materials. This is because water will rust the pump housing if it is not made from bronze, stainless steel or iron covered with an epoxy. Before choosing a sump pump, measure the height of the lift and have this information available. The height of lift determines the head pressure to remove water vertically.