A basement sump pump is a pump that is placed inside a large cylindrical basin in the floor of a basement. This pump is connected to a check valve, which triggers the pump in the presence of water, and exterior drainage pipes. The magic of a sump pump happens when water reaches the check valve. If a check valve triggers due to the presence of water, the sump pump begins pulling water from the basement to the outside through the exterior drainage pipes. A sump pump can be the difference between a minor incident and serious flooding, which has the potential to lead to other issues.
Prevent Flooding
A common problem with basements is their susceptibility to flooding, and this is the main issue a sump pump is meant to prevent. This is a worry for property owners, especially during heavy rains or for properties close to the water. However, nature isn’t the only risk factor for flooding. Basements are the lowest point of the property, and they host many of the property’s pipes. In addition, the basement is also where the water heater is typically stored, along with other water treatment units. With so much potential for flooding, it just makes sense to install a sump pump.
Prevent Mold and Mildew
Water damage on a property can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. It’s not just unpleasant to think about, it’s a health hazard. Mold sensitivity is not uncommon, and prolonged exposure to mold can cause significant adverse health effects. Once mold is present, it can never be fully removed and will have to be cleaned regularly by professionals. Installing a sump pump will prevent the initial outbreak of mold and mildew, saving both time and money on detection and removal later.
Prevent Fires
The basement often hosts the breaker box, which is the source of all of the property’s electricity. With so many electrical wires in the basement, it is imperative that flooding is prevented to also prevent the risk of a fire. Electrical wires are not suited to being underwater and the presence of an excess of water has the potential to cause one or more wires to short circuit. Having a sump pump will also prevent the risk of a fire.
Increase and Maintain Property Value
A property with significant water damage is going to lose value, and in some cases, this damage will have to be repaired before certain buyers can purchase the property. A sump pump will raise the value of a property because it is a desirable safety feature. In addition, it will maintain the value of a property by mitigating damage during a basement flood.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.