Sump Pump INstallation in Eugene, OR

Frequently Asked Sump Pump Questions

Do I need a sump pump in my crawl space?

It depends on whether you have current or potential water issues. Is your house on very flat land? In a “swampy” area? On poorly draining soil or clay? If you have a basement, your homeowner’s insurance may require one since it tends to be below the water table.

How does a sump pump work in a crawl space?

A sump pump in a crawl space acts as a defender against water accumulation, protecting your home's foundation and overall health. Water is guided to the sump in different ways. The water is pushed up through a discharge pipe and safely away from your home.

How many years does a sump pump last?

A sump pump can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years on average, with proper care and maintenance. However, several factors can influence its lifespan, including:

• Usage: Sump pumps that activate frequently due to high water tables or heavy rainfall will wear out faster than those that cycle less often.
• Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspection of the pump and pit can help prevent clogs and extend its lifespan.
• Quality: Higher-quality sump pumps with better materials and construction tend to last longer than budget-friendly models.
• Type: Submersible sump pumps, constantly submerged in water, may have a shorter lifespan than pedestal sump pumps with motors positioned above the water.

What is the best sump pump for a crawl space?

You want to ensure you have a pump that can handle the potential volume of water that could end up under your home. The one-sixth horsepower pumps are too small to support excess amounts of water. The ball on a long float switch isn't always a good solution, as the float can get hung up and not work. A screen built into the bottom of the pump gets clogged with silt, dirt, and small rocks. Plastic sump pumps are also not the best solution. Sump pumps make heat when they are operating. If it runs for a long time, the plastic can heat up and distort a little bit, which causes the bearings to burn out. You want one that is cast iron. There are also sumps with two pumps, and sumps with a battery back-up for power outages.

What is the best way to dry out a crawl space? 

Drying out a crawl space involves a two-pronged approach: addressing the source of moisture and removing existing moisture.

You'll want to:

• Allow a professional to Identify and address the moisture source.
• Remove existing moisture with a dehumidifier, create better air circulation, or invest in desiccant bags that trap moisture from the air.

Some alternative solutions to remove crawl space moisture include:

• Replacing traditional fiberglass insulation with blown-cellulose insulation.
• Consider installing a vapor barrier on the crawl space floor.

Where should a sump pump be placed in a crawl space?

The optimal placement for a sump pump in a crawl space is at the lowest point. This adheres to the fundamental principle that water naturally flows downhill due to gravity.

The lowest point is crucial for:

• Effective Drainage: Positioning the pump at the lowest point ensures that water drains directly into the sump pit. If the pump is placed elsewhere, water may accumulate in other parts of the crawl space, rather than reaching the pit for removal.
• Enhanced Efficiency: By situating the pump at the lowest point, water can flow easily into the pit, reducing the workload on the pump and increasing its efficiency.

When installing the sump pump, it’s essential to create a sump pit around it. Typically, this pit is about two feet deep and two to three feet wide, serving as a reservoir for water before the pump expels it.