Does A Finished Basement Need A Sump Pump?

Anyone with a basement level in their home should be aware of the potential for flooding and the costly property damage that comes along with it. Practicing proper moisture management is an essential part of maintaining a dry and healthy living space. Asking if a sump pump is appropriate for your basement could prevent unwanted water from ever becoming a major issue. We've researched the need for a basement sump pump to determine if it is necessary and what factors might contribute to needing one for your home.

You can determine the need for a basement a sump pump by considering a few important factors:

  • Check your local water table to determine the average seasonal depth ranges.
  • Consider soil drainage and the slope/elevation of your lot, especially near the foundation.
  • Look for signs of water damage that indicate flooding has been a problem there in the past.

While some basements can remain totally dry year-round without ever needing a sump pump, other situations will require multiple pumps running simultaneously just to maintain moisture levels. Planning a sump system for your basement could be the difference between bone dry and several feet of standing water. Please continue reading as we delve into the considerations for sump pumps and how water management systems can mitigate moisture in your basement.

A basement backup sump pump, Does A Finished Basement Need A Sump Pump?

Will A Sump Pump Keep The Basement Dry?

A properly functioning sump system collects and diverts excess groundwater away from the foundation, effectively keeping the basement dry. Covering the sump basin with a tightly fitting lid will also prevent unwanted moisture from evaporating back into the air.

Is My Home Located In An Area Prone To Basement Flooding?

Your geographic area and the property's specific location are important factors in determining a sump system's necessity. Areas with lots of rainfall or snowmelt often see rapid rises in the groundwater level, causing basement flooding. The efficiency of drainage and elevation where the basement is built also affect dryness.

How Does The Water Table Affect Basement Dryness?

Seasonal spikes in the water table level during peak precipitation periods lead to groundwater rising up through the basement's foundation and pooling. This is particularly troublesome in finished basements where exposed wood and drywall pose mold/rotting issues. Homes located above the water table are less likely to have issues with basement dryness.

How Can You Monitor The Water Table?

Consulting a nearby monitoring agency is often the easiest and most accurate way to obtain historical groundwater data. Local government offices like your nearby building department are a valuable resource available for public use. Many cities also enforce building codes requiring sump pumps in certain areas. Consider the elevation of the lot your home is built on in relation to the data collection area for the most accurate results.

How Can You Keep The Sump System Functioning Properly?

Assuming the sump system was installed correctly, maintaining it is relatively easy. Simply testing the system every three months to ensure the pump is running can prevent unexpected floodwater from collecting in the basement. Also, check that the filter trap is clear of sediment and all the pipe fittings are dry and not leaking back into the basin. The owner’s manual for your pump model might also include instructions for annual oiling of internal parts, if applicable. To keep the pump running in the event of a power loss, it's a good idea to include an emergency battery backup unit.

How Often Should A Sump Pump Kick On?

Most sump pumps are equipped with an automatic switch that enables them to turn on only when triggered by rising groundwater levels. Running frequency depends on your local water levels, but expect your pump to kick on more frequently in the winter months compared to summertime.

What If A Sump Pump Is Running Constantly?

While it’s not uncommon for a sump pump to run more frequently during peak times, most systems are not designed to run constantly and should be monitored to ensure proper functionality. If a pump won’t shut off, then the easiest thing to check is the float switch. It should move freely with the water level and shut the pump off when it falls below a specified point. Often you can adjust float switches to reach the desired level, similar to the type of float switch commonly found in toilet tanks.

If the pump still runs constantly, water may be leaking back into the basin, or the pump may be undersized for the volume of water required. If you don’t have a wifi-enabled smart pump to alert you of unusual activity, then using a smart outlet can prevent issues arising from the pump running constantly. This is especially helpful for second homes or when traveling.

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What If A Sump Pump Doesn’t Seem To Ever Run?

If the basin level accumulates very slowly, then it’s expected for the pump to run infrequently. Although this means the foundation is draining efficiently, extended dryness could cause premature pump failure. Pouring water into the basin will test the pump while also preventing the seals from drying out.

Does Every House With A Basement Have A Sump Pump?

Not necessarily; it depends on the location of the home and the use the basement serves. Unfinished basements may pose less risk of property damage than the exposed wood, drywall, and other furnishings found in finished basements. Anytime valuable possessions are being stored in a basement, consider extra precautions to avoid potential damage. Including a sump system is a wise preventative measure if water levels were ever to rise above the basement floor level.

Should You Be Worried If A House Has A Sump Pump?

When house hunting, finding a sump pump in the basement can be a worry or relief, depending on the situation. First, inspect the system's overall condition and age, and if possible, test the pump by pouring water in the basin. Next, look around for signs of previous water damage like swelling wood, staining near the baseboard, or peeling paint that indicates the system isn’t functioning or was possibly installed after the flooding had already occurred.

Ask the selling party when the sump system was installed and if professionally or by a previous homeowner. If a home inspection is being performed, voicing any concerns to the inspector can help clarify any nebulous issues.

Summary

A little preventative planning can go a long way in keeping your finished basement dry for years to come. The passive protection a sump pump offers makes it a viable option for many homes worldwide. Knowing more about the basement circumstances can help you decide if a sump pump could benefit your home’s health.

Interested in learning more about basement maintenance? Check out our related posts:

5 Types Of Basements Every Home Owner Should Know

How To Fix A Leaky Basement Wall From The Inside

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