Have you ever had to deal with a flooded lower ground floor? Perhaps you’re constantly faced with structural damp after heavy rain. If that’s you, we hear you – and that’s why investing in a sump pump is a smart move. These systems are one of the most effective ways to keep water out of basements and cellars, helping prevent serious water damage to your property.  

But what you may be wondering is how the sump pump works.   

Why is a sump pump needed? 

When it rains heavily, the land around your property may become saturated. If the water has nowhere else to go, it can begin to accumulate beneath your property’s foundations. A sump pump is a system that works to collect large volumes of water like this before it enters your property and causes a flood. As water naturally drains towards the lower levels of your home, it’s guided into the sump pump for collection. 

So, how does a sump pump work? 

Once the water level in the sump pit starts to rise, a float switch activates the pump automatically. The system then moves the water through a discharge pipe towards the drainage system. The water is often drained away from the property to prevent further flooding. 

When the water level reduces to its usual level, the pump switches off automatically. 

It’s also no secret that every sump pump is at risk of cutting out when the main power supply fails. Battery backups kick in during emergencies to keep your sump pump operating, but only if you’ve had one installed. A small amount of electricity is required to charge a sump battery backup, similar to any other household appliance, but it can keep your pump system working while power is out. Our experts advise replacing the battery system every 3-5 years.  

Find out more about how sump pump systems work in our blog: 4 Types of Sump Pumps and How They Work.

Are sump pumps expensive to run? 

The good news is that you won’t be faced with huge energy bills when running a sump pump.   

Most sump pump systems are between ¼ and 1 horsepower, using roughly 900 watts. In most cases, sump pumps only run for approximately 1 or 2 hours per day during heavy showers. Therefore, you can expect to pay no more than £15 per month.  

Are sump pumps noisy? 

A properly working sump pump should be relatively silent.  

If you notice a humming sound, this is just the motor running within the system, which is completely normal. But if you notice other unusual noises, such as banging or vibrating, it could be a sign that something’s wrong with the system. 

Ensuring your sump pump is frequently tested and repaired means it’s less likely to become less efficient over time. Ideally, you want your pump systems to last as long as possible, to make the investment worthwhile.  

Hiring a professional to carry out necessary maintenance every 12 months helps prevent further damage to the sump pump by poor DIY jobs and catch issues before they cause further damage, both of which could lead to costly repairs or even a full sump replacement. 

Invest in a sump pump today 

We’re one of the UK’s leading sump pump providers, here at Sumps & Pumps. 

We understand that with so many models on the market, it can be difficult to know which system is the right one to choose. Our experts are happy to assist you in finding the best system for your requirements. 

Get in touch with Sumps and Pumps today and find the best way to protect your home from flooding.