Sump Pumps: Key Features and Buying Guide

Posted on September 8, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

When contemplating home safety, it’s easy to overlook certain appliances until they malfunction, and a sump pump is one of those unsung heroes. Designed to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin, a sump pump is vital for protecting your home from flooding. It’s an essential piece of equipment for many homes, particularly those in areas susceptible to heavy rainfall or with basements below the water table.

This guide will walk you through the key features to consider when purchasing a sump pump and provide insight into sump pump replacements and plumbing. So, whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, read on to make an informed choice for your home’s safety and comfort.

Call 317-784-1870 For Sump Pump Replacement and Repair in Indianapolis Indiana

Key Features of Sump Pumps

Submersible vs. Pedestal

When looking for a sump pump, it’s important to consider certain features that will determine the right fit for your home. The most common types of sump pumps are submersible and pedestal pumps. Submersible pumps sit inside the sump basin and are quieter than pedestal pumps, making them the more popular choice for residential properties.

Pump Capacity

The next key feature to consider is the pump capacity, or power of the motor. This will depend on how much water needs to be removed from your sump basin each time it pumps and ranges from 1/6 horsepower (HP) – 1/3 HP. For most homes, a 1/3 HP pump should suffice, although if you have a large sump basin, you may require a higher capacity.

Pump Height

You should also think about the size of the pump, namely the height, which is referred to as ‘head’. This indicates how far above or below ground level the water will be pumped and ranges from 10 feet to 25 feet. For most household applications, a 15-foot head will suffice.

Unit Switch

Finally, consider the type of switch that you need. This is the mechanism that will determine when your pump needs to be switched on and off, and there are two types available: mechanical floats or electronic controllers. Mechanical float switches activate with an internal ball bearing while electronic control switches are set to operate at a certain water level in the sump basin.

Sump Pump Replacement

Sump pumps are built to last, but they will eventually need replacing. It’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your sump pump needs servicing or replacement such as increased noise levels, leaking water around the pump, or a shorter cycle time – meaning the pump is running more often than normal. If you suspect any of these issues may be present, it’s best to contact a professional plumber right away.

Sump Pump Plumbing

Installing a sump pump may seem like a daunting task, but with the help of an experienced plumber, you can rest assured that the job will be done properly and safely. Your plumber will advise on the best type and size of sump pump for your home, as well as the necessary plumbing fixtures and requirements. They’ll also ensure that all parts are connected correctly and will test the system to make sure it’s functioning properly.

Sump Pump FAQs

Q: How often should I replace my sump pump?

A: Generally speaking, a sump pump should last between 5-10 years. However, this can vary depending on the size of your sump basin and the frequency with which it’s used. It’s important to inspect your sump pump regularly for signs of wear and tear so that you can replace it before any potential damage to your home occurs.

Q: What type of sump pump is best for my home?

A: This will depend on the size and design of your home, as well as the specific needs of your sump basin. Generally speaking, submersible pumps are quieter than pedestal pumps and are the most commonly used in residential properties. However, it’s best to consult a professional plumber who can advise on the best option for your home.

Q: How do I install a sump pump?

A: Installing a sump pump is not a job that should be undertaken by anyone without experience or knowledge of plumbing systems. It’s best to hire a professional plumber who will ensure that all parts are connected correctly, and the system is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Choosing a sump pump is an important decision for any homeowner – one that can protect your property from floods or water damage. By following this guide, you can ensure that you purchase a pump that meets the specific needs of your home, and with the help of an experienced plumber, you can ensure a safe and secure installation. So, take the time to consider the features mentioned above, shop around for the best deal, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your home.

Ready to get your new unit up and running without a hitch? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured sump pump plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our state-licensed master plumbers serve residential and commercial clients.

How Often Should I Replace My Home’s Sump Pump?

Posted on April 21, 2023 by weilhammerplumbing

Homeowners know the importance of having a functioning sump pump in their home. Sump pumps are responsible for keeping your basement dry by diverting water away from your house and into an underground drainage system or nearby creek. But like all mechanical devices, sump pumps need to be replaced every so often as part of regular maintenance and repair. So, how often should you replace your home’s sump pump? The answer depends on several factors including the age of your current unit, the type of environment in which it is located, and any signs that suggest it needs to be repaired or replaced.

In this blog post, we will discuss these topics in more detail and provide tips on when you should consider replacing your home’s sump pump.

Call 317-784-1870 For Sump Pump Replacement in Indianapolis Indiana

Top Factors That Affect Sump Pump Replacement Timelines

Sump pumps are crucial in preventing basement flooding and ensuring the safety of your home’s foundation. The lifespan of a sump pump mainly depends on its usage and quality. On average, a well-maintained sump pump can last for about 10 years. However, if the pump frequently operates or experiences heavy usage, its lifespan can be reduced to 5 to 6 years.

It’s essential to have your sump pump regularly inspected by a professional plumber and to replace it before it fails to avoid unexpected damage to your property. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality sump pump and conducting routine maintenance is worth the cost to ensure the longevity of your equipment and the safety and security of your home.

Here are some factors that can influence your sump pump lifespan:

▶ Age – If your sump pump is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. The life expectancy of a sump pump is usually between 5 and 10 years, so if yours has been around for over a decade, you’ll want to start looking into getting a new one.

▶ Location – The environment in which your sump pump is located can also affect its lifespan. If it’s located in an area that is prone to flooding or other water-related damage, then your sump pump could be more likely to break down sooner than later and will need to be replaced.

▶ Climate – Additionally, if your home experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year (e.g., cold winters followed by hot summers), this can also shorten the life of your sump pump.

Act Fast When You Notice Sump Pump Problems

If you do notice any signs that suggest your sump pump needs to be repaired or replaced, then it is important that you act quickly. These signs can include loud noises when the pump is running, a lack of water being pumped away from your home, and even flooding in your basement. If you experience any of these warning signs, contact a professional plumber to inspect and repair (or replace) your sump pump as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Overall, replacing a sump pump should not be done on a regular basis unless there are signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade. If yours is more than 10 years old or if you live in an environment where temperature or water-related damage is a concern, then you may want to consider replacing your sump pump sooner rather than later. Additionally, if you notice any warning signs that suggest it needs to be repaired or replaced, contact a professional plumber right away. By following these tips, you can ensure that your sump pump is functioning properly and keeping your home dry for years to come.

We hope this information was helpful in understanding when it’s time to replace your home’s sump pump and how often regular maintenance and repair should be done. If you need assistance with repairing or replacing your sump pump, don’t hesitate to contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 to receive information about our sump pump services and products, anytime. Not only do we repair, install, and replace all make and model sump pumps, but we also carry state-of-the-art Zoeller Sump Pumps and Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pumps at below-market prices.

How to Tell If You Need Sump Pump Repair

Posted on October 14, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

A sump pump is a vital piece of equipment that helps to protect your home from flooding. When installed properly, a sump pump will remove water that has accumulated in a sump pit and pump it out of the home to a safe location. This helps to prevent your basement or crawlspace from flooding and prevents damage to your home and belongings.

Sump pumps are especially important in homes that are located in areas that are prone to flooding or where the water table is high. If your home is located in an area that experiences a lot of rain or snowmelt, a sump pump can help to prevent flooding. Homes that are located near rivers or lakes may also benefit from a sump pump, as these bodies of water can cause flooding if they rise too high.

Installing a sump pump is a relatively simple process, and there are many different types. If you already have one, it is important to provide proper maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer. One such responsibility is knowing how to spot problems.

Continue below to review some of the most common signs that suggest you need residential sump pump repair, plus where to get the best service in the Greater Indianapolis areas.

Sump Pump Repair Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Sump Pump Basics

A residential sump pump is a necessary appliance that helps to remove water that has accumulated in a basement or crawlspace. This type of pump is typically installed in a sump pit, which is a hole that is dug in the floor of the basement or crawlspace. The sump pump works by using a float switch to activate the pump when the water level in the pit reaches a certain point. The pump then pumps the water out of the pit and away from the home.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of residential sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible pumps are designed to be completely submerged in the water, while pedestal pumps are designed to sit above the water level. Both types of pumps are effective at removing water from the home, but submersible pumps are typically more durable and can last longer.

Sump Pumps Can Fix a Musty Basement

If you have a wet basement or crawlspace, a residential sump pump can help to keep the area dry and prevent mold and mildew from growing. A sump pump can also help to protect your home from flooding and other water damage. If you are considering installing a sump pump in your home, it is important to choose the right size and type of pump for your needs. A professional Indianapolis plumber can help you select the best sump pump for your home and install it properly.

Signs of Sump Pump Problems

A sump pump is a submersible pump that is used to remove water that has accumulated in a sump basin, typically located in the basement of a home. Sump pumps are used to pump out water that has accumulated in the sump basin, to prevent flooding and water damage.

There are several signs that indicate a sump pump may be having problems, and it is important to be aware of these signs so that you can take action to avoid any potential damages.

One of the most common signs of a sump pump problem is when the pump fails to turn on. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a power outage, a blown fuse, or a tripped circuit breaker. If you notice that your sump pump has failed to turn on, you should check these things first before assuming that there is a problem with the pump itself.

Another sign that there may be a problem with your sump pump is if you notice that the water level in the sump basin is rising. This can be caused by a number of things, such as a clogged intake pipe or an overflowing drain. If you notice that the water level in the sump basin is rising, you should turn off the pump and call a plumber to come and take a look.

If you notice that your sump pump is making strange noises, this can also be an indication of a problem. Sump pumps are designed to operate quietly, so if you notice that your pump is making strange noises, it is likely that there is a problem. You should contact a plumber to come and take a look at the pump to determine what the problem may be.

Do your sump pump concerns match any of these signs? Are you due for routine service? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana for sump pumps. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Clearing Up the Confusion About Sump Pumps and Sump Pits

Posted on June 17, 2022 by weilhammerplumbing

Homes and most properties retain a sump pit, which is basically a hole in the ground that collects water run-off and other spilled liquids. These are usually located in a lower level of a home or property, like a basement, cellar, or other underground room. Sump pits are imperative for preventing floods and excess water accumulations, especially for properties located in flood zones or near large bodies of water.

Continue reading to learn more about sump pumps and sump pits, including tips on how to prevent overflows and floods on your property.

Sump Pump Plumbers Indianapolis Indiana 317-784-1870

Facts About Sump Pumps

Sump pits are man-made holes, or “pits” that are drilled into the floor and lined with concrete or brick, then covered with a grate, making it look similar to a large drain. Sump pits are equipped with a sump pump, which is an appliance that siphons collected water out of a sump pit to prevent overflows and floods. They pump water out periodically, not constantly, as to not waste electricity and energy. In order for the pit and pump duo to function and operation properly, it requires routine maintenance and professional service.

Flood Prevention

As mentioned before, sump pits and sump pumps are vital components for properties located in flood zones. When sump pumps break, properties can be subjected to flooding that is costly and tedious to repair. You wouldn’t want to walk into your basement after a heavy rain to find three inches of water on the ground! Nor would you want to go on vacation, only to come home to a swimming pool in your living room! Sump pits and pumps are very important for all properties, as well as ones located beneath the local water table.

Keeping the gutters in good condition is helpful for preventing water overflow and flooding issues since they can better drain excess water run-off after heavy rain or snow. Mold growth, drywall rot, warped floorboards, and foundation issues are all possible consequences that can result from a flooding catastrophe in or outside of the house.

Where to Get Sump Pump Help

Many things can go wrong with sump pumps, especially the trigger devices and float switches. When your sump pump fails to remove water from your basement, or you have a long power outage during a severe storm, you might come back to an expensive disaster. It is wise to consider replacing your pump every 5-10 years. It is also wise to have a backup plan in place in case of a huge storm or long power outage.

Contact a licensed master plumber in Indianapolis for professional assistance and advice regarding water tables, sump pumps, and sump pits. They retain the proper tools, training, equipment, resources, and experience to accurately diagnose a plumbing or water issue and find solutions that fit within a property owner’s budget. They can also facilitate a pit dig, as well as provide installation, repairs, and maintenance for all make and model sump pumps.

Are you worried about the condition of your sump pump? Do you lack a sump pump and wish to learn more about installing one in your home? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair for sump pumps in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

General Plumbing Facts About Sump Pits

Posted on September 23, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

For residential and commercial properties, a sump pit brings us into the 21^st century of plumbing and waste management. Fundamentally speaking, it is a man-made hole, or “pit” that is drilled into the floor and lined with concrete, or sometimes even brick, and then covered with a grate, making it look similar to a large drain. They are designed to collect water and other excess liquid runoff and debris. These are generally installed in basements or subgrade levels of a home to prevent flooding and overflow and operated by a plumbing appliance called a sump pump.

Continue reading to learn more about sump pits and sump pumps, and what to do to ensure yours stays operational.

Sump Pump Plumbing Repair Indianapolis 317-784-1870

What are Sump Pumps?

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water.

If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow. Since both the sump pit and pump are vital to the overall operation, it is important to provide periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

What are Sump Pits?

Sump pits are extremely helpful for basements. This is especially true for properties located in flood zones, regions with frequent or high precipitation, and areas where the water table is higher than the subgrade level of a home. All of these factors can increase the chances of basement flooding, water leaks, and more. Namely, when the surrounding water table is higher than that of your basement floor, several problems can arise. Health concerns, structural damages, mildew growth, mold remediation, costly remodels, and tedious repairs are just a few examples. For these reasons, it is vital to have a working sump pump and pit.

Maintenance for Sump Pumps

It is important to provide regular maintenance and cleaning for sump pits and pumps. They can grow algae and mold inside, and even become clogged with debris overtime. A professional plumber has the resources and training to implement all your sump pump maintenance and repair needs.

Do you require emergency sump pump service or repair in Central Indiana? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for Indianapolis Indiana plumbing services for sump pumps and more. We carry the most reliable back up system on the market today, the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump, and at the most competitive price around.

You Should Also Read:

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?
How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need
Top 7 Reasons Why Sump Pumps Break

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Sump Pumps

Posted on March 31, 2021 by weilhammerplumbing

Springtime means rain; and even though April is not quite here yet, the showers are no less on their way. During the rainy season, the persistent moisture in the surrounding environments can cause excessive puddling and standing water, which can lead to more serious issues like flooding. For this reason, it is important to double check that your sump pump is in good condition and operating efficiently this time of year. This piece of plumbing equipment will protect your home from catastrophic water leaks and flooding disasters.

Not sure what you need to know about your sump pump? Continue below to review some frequently asked questions about residential sump pumps, and where you can get trusted service before the storms hit your neck of the woods.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Services 317-784-1870 — Indianapolis Indiana Sump Pump Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Sump Pump FAQS You Want to Know

☔ What are Sump Pumps?

Sump pumps are conventional plumbing devices that are designed to mitigate indoor flooding by keeping water out of your basement, crawl space, or lower level of your home. In fact, they are installed at the lowest point of the home since water drains downhill. They collect rainwater and then transfer it to the nearest retention pond or storm drain, thus abating excessive water accumulation in and around your house.

☔ Do I Need a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are vital for all homes in regions with annual rainfall and properties located near bodies of water. Furthermore, if you have a patio, sloped driveway, clogged gutters, or surrounding sidewalks, your property is more prone to flooding problems than others. In Spring when excessive water accumulates around these areas, your home is subjected to increased rain buildup, which can lead to water leaks, seepage, flooding, and structural and foundational issues. They save homeowners thousands of dollars in invasive and time-consuming repairs, not to mention the hassle of it all to begin with.

☔ Is My Sump Pump Broken?

In order to determine if your sump pump is still working is to test it, manually. This means you will have to grab a 5 gallon bucket, fill it with water, and then dump it into the sump pit. The float trigger should activate as you pour water into your sump pump. Then after a few minutes, the pit should drain, and the sump pump should turn off automatically. If this all happens, your device is working. If your sump pump reacts any differently, such as not shutting off after the pit drains or making odd sounds, you might need sump pump repair or replacement.

☔ When Should I Replace a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are designed to last a long time. Generally, their average lifespan ranges between 8 and 10 years. However, this lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the make and model, the frequency at which it was used, and the annual rainfall in your region. Talk to your trusted plumbing company for advice on when you can expect to replace your sump pump. It is important to have your home’s plumbing inspected by a licensed plumber on an annual basis to ensure all systems are running efficiently.

☔ Can I Install a New Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are serious plumbing appliances that require serious expertise and resources. So, if you are thinking about installing your new sump pump on your own, please reconsider. It is strongly encouraged to hire a licensed and experienced plumber to advise you on which kind of sump pump your home requires, and to install it for you properly, and up to code. When it comes to mitigating flood and water damage to your house, you do not want to take any shortcuts or make a mistake.

Do you need to replace or repair a sump pump in your home? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 to get professional plumbing services for sump pumps in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve both residential and commercial clients and offer 24 hour emergency plumbing service.

You Should Also Read:

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?
How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need
The Dangers of In-Home Flooding

Do I Need to Empty My Septic Tank?

Posted on June 12, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

Your priority as a homeowner is to maintain the value, function, and safety of your house. One of the most important systems in your home to maintain is the plumbing, namely, the septic system. The problem is that many people are quite confused on what the proper maintenance is for a septic system. Furthermore, many people confuse sump pumps and septic systems. If you are having the same questions, such as, “what is the difference between a sump pump and septic tank?”, or “when should I empty my septic tank?”, you are in the right place.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about taking good care of your property’s septic system, including when septic tanks should be emptied.

Zoeller Sump Pump Installation **317-714-0759**

Septic System Basics

First let us discuss the basics of a septic system so that you understand the difference between a sump pump and a septic tank. You see, a septic tank is a component of plumbing that collects sewage and wastewater, and naturally decomposes them using a bacterial action. They are usually constructed of precast concrete, concrete blocks, or reinforced fiberglass, and buried in the ground somewhere on the property.

A sump pump is a device that is outfitted to a sump pit for the purpose of removing excess water and liquids from the pit. They are usually connected to a municipal sewer line or storm drain, and equipped with a flotation device that forces them to clink at particular levels of flooding. If the power is out, there is a manual lever that allows people to release excess water. If the water level reaches or exceeds a preset level in the pit, the pump initiates and sucks up enough liquid to remedy the risk of overflow.

Cesspools

Now where does the cesspool come into play? Well, not every property has a cesspool. Some homes are equipped with cesspools instead of septic systems. Although both collect organic waste and decompose them naturally, cesspools are a much older waste disposal technique compared to the modern-day septic tanks. The general rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected and serviced by a professional plumbing company every 1 to 3 years.

When and How to Empty the Septic Tank

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your septic tank inspected every three years by a licensed Indianapolis master plumber. They further recommend adhering to the professional advice given by the plumbing contractor in regard to routine de-sludging and septic service. Basically, you need to hire a licensed plumbing contractor to perform all septic and cesspool work, no matter how inclined you feel on doing it yourself. These are important systems, and one wrong move or mistake can leave you with some very messy, and extremely unsanitary conditions.

Where to Get Professional Sump Pump Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-714-0759 to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable master plumber about sump pump service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We are happy to answer any questions you have about septic tank and sump pump installation, maintenance, replacement, repair, problems, and more. We even offer 24 hour emergency services for water leaks, floods, and more. Owner and Master Plumber, Mark Weilhammer, recommends installing the Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pump in your sump pit along with your main sump pump. The Aquanot ll® is the most reliable back up system on the market today. Call 317-714-0759 for professional sump pump services in Indianapolis you can trust!

Why Won’t My Sump Pump Turn Off After it Rains a Lot?

Posted on April 23, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

It is still April, and the forecast is showing a lot of rain ahead. So, if you notice that your sump pump seems to run continuously after your area experiences a heavy rainfall, you might be a little concerned right about now. Many often think their sump pump is malfunctioning when this happens. But the truth is, there is a very good reason why a sump pump does this.

Continue reading to find out what you need to know about sump pumps and heavy rains.

Indianapolis Sump Pump Service 317-784-1870

What Your Sump Pump Does

It is okay if you are not entirely sure what your sump pump does, exactly. You are not alone. Many homeowners simply rely on the assumption that their sump pump is operating properly and at full efficiency. However, when you really learn how these units work, you can better diagnose issues when they occur. It can also help you put your mind at ease when your sump pump begins to demonstrate some unfamiliar behaviors, such as the constant running you hear after a heavy rain. See our blog, “What You Need to Know About Your Sump Pump” to get this type of knowledge.

Effects of Heavy Rainfalls

After a heavy storm or long period of steady rainfall, the ground is full with a lot more water than normal. Since sump pumps activate when the pit fills with water to a certain level, the pump will continue to activate itself and pump water out, so long as the ground is still saturated with water from a heavy rain. Basically, it takes longer for large amounts of water to drain from the soul in the ground, which in turn, causes sump pumps to continue working until the water inside the pit is below the trigger line.

Some areas have more permeable soil conditions, so their sump pumps are not overwhelmed with this type of onset of groundwater after a rain. So, if this is something you experience often, it could have something to do with the soil conditions and geography of your area.

Sump Pump Inspection and Maintenance

Your sump pump is a mechanical device, which means it vitally requires regular maintenance and care. In order to ensure your sump pump is working properly and efficiently, have it inspected and serviced by a professional plumber once a year. In addition to professional sump pump service, you also need to keep in mind that if your sump pump is not the proper size or capacity for your particular property, you will need to address that issues as soon as possible, or risk flooding issues eventually. Talk to your trusted plumber for sump pump advice and installation.

Got Sump Pump Problems?

When your sump pump needs service, you need a state-licensed master plumber. Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional master plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services, including sump pump repair and replacement. We even sell top-of-the-line Aquanot ll® Battery Backup Sump Pumps and Zoeller sump pumps below market price! Request a free estimate, today.

Will Heavy Snow Affect My Home Plumbing?

Posted on February 26, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

This time of year, Indiana is known to get unanticipated snow fall. In fact, Hoosiers can be hit with a snowstorm all the way to May! So, waking up this morning to steady snow should be no surprise, whether you read the weather report for the week or not. When it comes to managing your property during times of snow, it is common to be concerned about the systems that are most affected by colder climate and precipitation. Your home’s plumbing is one such system, and a vital one to upkeep, nonetheless.

If you are wondering what you can do to keep your home’s plumbing protecting during times of heavy snow, it helps to understand how snow can affect it in the first place. Continue reading to do just that!

Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Gutters and Drains

Your gutters, downspouts, and drains are all subject to damage during heavy snow. They can break from too much weight, crack from freeze-thaw cycles, or clog from organic debris and ice. It is important to keep up with snow fall as it’s happening by clearing these areas of dirt, trash, solid matter, and ice. This will reduce clogs, as well as, prevent water damage to roofing, siding, and the foundation.

Foundation

Once the snow begins to melt, your home’s foundation can be affected by the increase in standing water. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. If your foundation is not in the best condition, water can seep inside, into the basement or lower floors of the home. You must have your home’s foundation repaired or enhanced to prevent slab leaks.

Sump Pump

Large snow buildup around your home may also affect the operation of your sump pump. Be sure to inspect the sump pump check valve after a heavy snowfall to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line.

Plumbing Pipes

When a home gets too cold during snowfall, plumbing pipes can freeze, which can result in damaging freeze-thaw cycles, and eventually, busted pipes. Not only is this an invasive plumbing repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. You can prevent this from happening by keeping your house warm enough during the winter.

Indianapolis Plumbing Services You Can Trust

Call Weilhammer Plumbing at 317-784-1870 for prompt and professional Indianapolis plumbing repair service at an affordable price. Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to answer your questions about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, maintenance, and more. We offer free advice and estimates as well.

How to Determine Which Sump Pump Size You Need

Posted on January 30, 2020 by weilhammerplumbing

In general, a sump is a collection bowl that holds liquids. For instance, your car has a sump to collect oil. As for your home, a sump pump is a vital plumbing appliance that provides a long list of benefits and an unparalleled level of security. So, if you are on the market for a new sump pump, it is important to procure the proper unit for your home or office. Otherwise, you could be in for a plumbing disaster down the line. This obligation starts with determining which size sump pump you need.

Continue reading to learn how to size a sump pump, correctly.

Sump Pump Operation

In order to know which sump pump make and model is best for your home or office, it is necessary to understand some basics surrounding sump pump operation and maintenance. Sump pumps are designed to eliminate excess flood water filtering through loose aggregate and soil surrounding a property’s foundation. In most cases, they are installed in a small pit that is dug in the floor of a basement, usually 2 feet deep and 18 inches wide.

The pump portion of a sump pump system is designed to detect water levels within the sump pit using a specialized float device. When water in the sump pit gets too high, the float completes an electrical circuit, turning on the pump and sending the excess water away from the property through a series of plumbing pipes. Such systems also have a one-way “check valve” that is designed to prevent expelled water from returning to the pit.

Maintenance and Installation

Because sump pumps require electricity to work, it is vital to also have a backup sump pump battery (or an alternative back-up power source) in the case that your power goes out. In regions where precipitation patterns are consistent or high, it is necessary to have an entire back up sump pump system to manage the larger flow of water. As with anything electrical near water, it is critical to have your sump pump connected to an outlet that has a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

Sump Pump Size

When you are talking about sump pump size, you are really referred to output. Sump pumps come in a wide range of make and models, all with varying outputs. This is basically the capacity to which the sump pump can displace water. Factors that will influence the sump pump output you need include property size, location of pump, distance of plumbing pipes, and more.

While shopping around, look for a chart on the side of the sump pump. This chart will depict how much flow and head values. Flow refers to how many gallons of water per minute the sump pump can move, while head refers to how far the water must vertically travel from the pump to the outlet pipes. These values are inverse, which means as the flow rate lowers, the head rate increase. You see, a sump pump must use more energy to push more water farther upwards. Therefore, if you have a sump pump that is not the proper output, it can be wasting energy or using up too much.

In order to know which sump pump size you need, you must calculate your flow rate. In order to do this, you have to wait for a rainy day. Here’s how:

On a rainy day, run your sump pump until the water level is below the shuts off level.

Then disconnect the power and measure the distance to which the water rises in 1 minute. This is your flow rate.

USE FOR REFERENCE:
18” SUMP PUMP: 1 INCH OF WATER = 1 GALLON
24” SUMP PUMP: 1 INCH OF WATER = 2 GALLONS

Next, multiply your flow rate by 1.5, which will give allowance for severe storms and flooding.

Then measure the vertical distance from the bottom of the basement to the sump pump outlet pipe. This is your head distance.

Now that you have flow and head values, refer to the chart on the side of your sump pump to see if it is sufficient.

A Fair Warning

A power rating of 1/3^rd horsepower is recommended for the average residence, however, aside from flow rate and head values, there are several other factors that can impact the proper sump pump size you need. For instance, components like elbow joints, check valves, and narrow piping, can increase friction levels, thus requiring a more powerful unit. That is why it is strongly recommended to consult with a licensed plumber to learn the best sump pump options for your home or office.

Sump Pump Service and Repair in Indianapolis

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 when you need skilled and dependable Indianapolis sump pump services you can trust. Our licensed plumbers offer a wide range of standard and master plumber services for both residential and commercial properties, including help with sump pump installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. We also sell top-of the-line Zoeller sump pumps at wholesale price! Get the best package deal on a brand new sump pump that includes installation and maintenance! Request a free estimate, today.