Buying a Home with a Sump Pump – Many lake homes have a sump pump, and they can be very useful and great feature. Here are some important things to know about sump pumps.

What is a Sump Pump

A sump pump is most often installed in the basement of a home and its main job is to pump water out of the home and into another area like a storm drain. Most of the time they are located beneath the floor of the basement where flooding and heavy rains are likely to occur.

It is a good idea to be knowledgeable of the type of sump pump a home has and the likelihood of excess water in your home based on its location.

There are Two Types of Sump Pumps

Pedestal Sump Pumps

These are the cheaper of the two sump pump types. Pedestal sump pumps are installed further away from living spaces. Though they cost less to purchase they do create more noise, but also do not require as much time to get the job done and have a longer lifespan.

Submersible Sump Pumps

A submersible sump pump is used when the pump needs to be installed closer to living spaces because it is much quieter. Though they make less noise, they are more expensive and take a little longer to get the job done. These are most commonly found in basements.

Sump Pumps Require Regular Maintenance

To receive the longest life out of your sump pump it will need routine care. With the correct attention and care, pedestal pumps can last 25 years and submersibles can last up to 15 years.

To care for your pump it needs to be cleaned, valves checked, filter checked, and tested. All of this should be done at least annually. Replace any parts that may need it right when you notice it instead of after it is so worn down it causes a problem.

If a Home has a Sump Pump Check it for Water Damage

Homes with sump pumps rarely have a sump pump for no reason. Either it was installed because the home is highly susceptible to water damage or it already had water damage and needed to have one installed. It is a smart idea to check homes with sump pumps for water damage. Sometimes homes come in contact with more water than the sump pump can handle and water damage may not have been noticed or repaired properly. Hiring an expert inspector will help with this.

Look for Structural Damage

Flooding can cause significant damage including severe structural damage. Just because a home has a sump pump, does not mean it is immune to any type of water damage. It is important to check for any areas that may be susceptible to structural damage and make sure the home is in good standing condition so that it will continue to do just that, stand. Again this is where an expert inspector really helps.

Pumps Should Be Tested

Just because a pump is in a home and the home has no current damage, does not mean that the pump is functioning well. It is always best to test if a pump is properly functioning before purchasing the house. You don’t want to rely on something only to find out it isn’t working when it’s too late to prevent damage. Like during a storm.

Battery Backups are a Good Investment

Backup battery systems for sump pumps are a bit of a pricey investment, but they are worth it. Should the electricity in your home go out the battery will kick in and allow the pump to continue operating. This is crucial should the power go out during a storm or as a result of flooding when the pump needs to be working.

Sump Pumps Need Routine Testing

Every once in a while, you should test the sump pump to ensure it is still functioning properly. To test it all you need is a five-gallon bucket of water. Slowly pour the water into the pump until you see it activate and drain the water. Watch it go through the motions to ensure it is doing its job including making sure it is draining where it is supposed to. Stick around to make sure it properly shuts itself off as well. You want to know the pump is working and not get caught with a mess during a storm.

For more information on purchasing a lake home in Claremont or surrounding areas please contact me at any time.