Plumbing Basics

Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are used in basements to take water and moisture out to prevent damage to the basement. The sump pumps are then connected to an outside hose for draining into the yard. You never want to hook your sump pumps into the sewer systems. If this is the case, you are going to need a licensed plumber to come in and reroute the plumbing. Some homeowners in the past just tapped into the sewer systems and it has caused problems. It is illegal to tap into sewer systems with a sump pump. If you find that your home has a pump draining into the sewer, call a plumber to have this corrected.

If you have a leaky basement or a damp musty smell in the basement and you have no sump pumps or drain tiles, you might consider having one installed to clear up the problem. This is not a job you would typically want to do yourself. It takes a lot of work and experience to do the job correctly. A professional plumber will have all the tools and supplies to properly install the sump pump(s) so that they meet code restrictions and guidelines. This should clear up the musty smell and dampness in your basement in no time.

Sump pumps are wired into the home’s electric so it can operate whenever the sump pit fills up. In many cases, these pumps will also have a battery back up in case of a power failure. If you have a sump pump that has ceased to operate, you will want a plumber to come in and see exactly why it is not working. It may be that the pump itself has a problem or it may be as simple as a clogged drain hose outside. Either way, someone with experience should assess the problem.