Basement flooding is one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares. Sump pumps protect homes from rising waters and heavy rains that create structural damage and high repair bills. It’s crucial to know which type of pump meets your needs. In this guide, we’ll show how sump pumps work, how they work, and how to select the right one for any home.

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

In simple terms, sump pumps move water from the basement out of the home. A sump is a pit carved below the basement floor’s main surface, and it holds the pump. The sump pump’s valves sense increases in water levels or pressure, and when the water rises too high, it automatically removes the excess through an effluent or discharge line. This line connects the pump to an appropriate drainage area.

Where Should the Pump’s Drainage Area Be?

The water removed by a sump pump is typically routed to a dry well, pond, creek, or nearby sewer drain. It’s important not to set the drain point in a way that allows water to return to the home. Ideally, the pump should be kept at least 10 to 20 feet away from the home’s foundation. Some cities’ building codes determine where sump pumps can drain, so it’s best to consult with a local government agency. It may be necessary to attach extended drainage hoses and compensate for the additional length by increasing the sump pump’s horsepower.

What is a Submersible Sump?

A submersible pump contains the motor and pump in a single unit that sits submerged in the basin. Because these pumps are fully submerged, they’re quiet, they save space, and become clogged less often. However, because of the damaging effects of submersion, these pumps may not last as long as some others. Submersible sump pumps are a great option for homes in high-risk flooding areas.

How Do Pedestal Pumps Work?

Unlike submersible pumps, pedestal sump pumps consist of separate parts. The pump motor is on an elevated pedestal, with a line running to the pump within the basin. The pump routes water through that line and out to the drainage area. Because the pump’s motor isn’t submerged, it may last longer than other units and it’s easier to maintain. This convenience comes at a high cost, though; a pedestal pump may be louder and bigger than a submersible pump.

Battery-Operated Backups

A sump pump with a battery backup is an excellent way to provide extra protection from water damage. A backup and float switch allows the pump to work even during a storm-related power outage. As the water rises into the basin, the float switch is activated, and the battery backup does its job by turning the pump on.

Water-Powered Backups

Water-powered backups use elevated water pressure to remove water from the basin. A water-powered system has one distinct advantage: there is no need to replace batteries or observe the backup. However, the increase in water usage will bring higher utility bills, and these backups are prohibited in some cities.

Which Type of Pump is Best for the Home?

Choosing a pump is an important step in keeping a home secure. Choose a unit with enough power to handle expected water levels. If you choose a pump with less power than needed for your area, there may still be a significant flood risk. Conversely, buying a pump that’s more powerful than necessary causes rapid on-off cycling and diminishes the unit’s lifespan.

If you’re living in an area with average rainfall levels, a one-third horsepower pump may be enough. However, if the home is in a flood plain or requires a faraway drainage point, a one-half horsepower pump may be a better choice. Finally, if the pump is used in a commercial or outdoor setting, a 13000 GPH unit is recommended.

Pump Switch Types

Some pumps operate on switch systems that allow for independent usage. Even though they serve the same purpose, all switches work differently. Below is a list of the most common switch types and an explanation of how they work.

• Pressure switches sense water pressure and turn the pump on at a certain level.
• Float switches sit on the water’s surface. As water levels rise, the switch does as well, until the pump turns on.
• Diaphragm switches become concave as pressure rises and convex as it drops. These switches are common because they rarely become stuck in an off or on position.
• Electronic switches work by sensing water pressure in the basin. As water pressure rises, the switch is activated.

Pump Accessories

When installing sump pump products, there are quite a few add-ons to consider. Accessories such as water alarm attachments notify homeowners when pumps fail, preventing unnecessary water damage. Discharge hoses make it easier to create faraway drainage points, protecting the home and its foundation. An installer can recommend the right accessories for any pump.

Pump Costs

Generally, submersible pumps are priced based on flow rate and horsepower. Commercial-grade sump pumps typically come at a higher cost. Here are a few considerations to make when budgeting for a home pump.

• Type: The kind of pump a homeowner chooses largely determines the cost of installation and usage. Factors such as construction materials, horsepower, size, features, and switch type all affect a pump’s cost.
• Basement construction: A basement floor plays a crucial role in determining the cost of pump installation. If the floor is made of concrete, it must be removed at the lowest point. The thicker the slab is, the higher the labor cost will be.
• Drainage: If city codes require a faraway drainage point, extension hoses and drain lines will increase the job’s cost. Furthermore, these features may freeze or pose other hazards.
• Permitting: The cost to obtain the necessary permits will differ based on location, and it should be considered beforehand.
• Hiring a professional installer: Though a DIY installation will decrease the cost of the job, it’s a risky proposition for those who don’t know what they’re doing. If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire someone who’s licensed to perform installations and sump pump inspections. Though it increases the job’s cost, it’s still cheaper than repairing flood damage.

Is It Necessary to Install a Basement Pump?

In areas prone to flooding, sump pumps are a necessity. Whether floods come after an above-average rainy season or the home’s basement is beneath the water table, water damage is disastrous for the home and the family’s health. Even if the rest of the home doesn’t flood, excess moisture may lead to the growth of several kinds of mold that cause allergic reactions, asthma, and respiratory problems. If there’s no way to get water out of the home, damage and illness are inevitable.

If the home’s basement is finished and is used as a living space, you’ll likely benefit from the usage of a pump. A well-maintained pump protects the carpet, walls, and furniture from mold and moisture damage. However, if the basement is used for storage but is unfinished, it’s still a good idea to install a pump.

Why Would a Pump Fail?

Sump pumps fail for several reasons, the most common of which are age, mechanical problems, and installation errors. If you’re installing a pump yourself, take some time to learn about the process before starting. The money saved with a DIY job is insignificant compared to the amount that may be lost when the basement floods due to improper installation. Furthermore, mechanical errors may arise when switches get stuck or the pump power-cycles rapidly. Like all other machines, sump pumps have a finite lifespan. Depending on usage and maintenance patterns, a home pump may last seven to 10 years.

Water damage leads to more homeowner’s insurance claims than theft and fire combined. The average cost to repair a flooded basement is approximately $43,000. Most home insurance providers ask if homes have sump pumps and backup power systems. Though sump pumps are sometimes costly, they’re an investment in the safety and security of the home.

If you’re not sure which type of pump to use, it’s best to seek professional advice. With help from Boulden Brothers, any homeowner can find the right pump for their needs, their home, and their budget. When sump pumps are properly installed and serviced, they provide years of flood protection and reassurance.

Buying a new hot water heater is not at the top of anyone’s list of favorite things to do. However, this appliance can and does fail with time. Knowing when the unit needs to be replaced is important because a failing unit can lead to damage to the home.

When this time comes, the homeowner may have a number of questions. One such question may be, how much is a new water heater? Other questions center around the installation process and how to avoid problems in the future. 

What signs should a person be looking for when it comes to water heater failure? The following are seven red flags every property owner needs to be aware of. With this information, it becomes easier to determine if a new unit must be purchased in the very near future. 

7. The Age of the Water Heater

Manufacturers of this appliance sell their devices with the caveat that they only last approximately eight to fifteen years. However, as people move so frequently now, it is hard to know how old the unit is without speaking to a prior owner. Fortunately, the manufacturers have recognized this is an issue and have taken steps to ensure a person can determine exactly how old the unit is at any time. 

Every water heater has a sticker on the unit, usually near the top, that provides the serial number for the appliance. In most cases, the first two numbers are the year in which the device was produced. This isn’t always the case though, so it never hurts to visit the manufacturer’s website on the internet to see how the maker’s devices are labeled. 

If the heater is nearing the eight-year mark or has already surpassed it, this does not mean you have to purchase a new unit today. Simply pay more attention to the appliance and any warning signs it might be ready to fail. While doing so, begin saving up for a new unit so you aren’t surprised when the time comes to replace the current one. It’s easier to pay for a replacement of this type if you have some forewarning. 

6. Unusual Noises

Water heaters are typically very quiet. As a result, a property owner needs to pay attention to any strange noises the appliance is making. Cracking and popping sounds are often a sign the heating element is going bad. 

However, noises of this type might also mean harmful minerals are accumulating in the device. As these minerals build up in the unit, they can wear away at the internal components of the hot water heater and lead to cracks developing. Flushing the appliance yearly can help to prevent this issue.

Hissing or sizzling noises are a major concern and need to be investigated immediately. Often, the noise is the result of water dripping onto a hot element or burner as a result of a leak. If the leak is not fixed promptly, water damage to the home could occur and cost a great deal more than simply the cost of a new unit. 

5. Dirty Water Coming Out Of The Faucet

Water coming out of the faucet should be clear. Any sediment or mud inside the tank can lead to discoloration, however, or the water may have some grit in it. When these symptoms appear, it’s likely the water heater has collected a large amount of sediment. 

Don’t panic yet. It may simply mean the water heater needs to be flushed. However, don’t delay in having this task done. Doing so could lead to more costly repairs or the need for a replacement unit. 

Sediment that is allowed to build in the appliance may lead to a leak. It could also result in various components failing so have the unit flushed as soon as possible. If flushing does not resolve the issue, a new hot water heater will likely be needed. 

However, one thing to check before calling for a repair is whether the issue is affecting the cold water as well. If the cold water has the same discoloration or both the hot and cold water have a metallic smell or taste, it might be within the water supply. It’s worth looking into this first before making a call to a plumber for a replacement unit. 

4. Detecting Leaks

A leak in a hot water heater can be disastrous, as water can do a significant amount of damage to a home in a short period of time. Unfortunately, many leaks start out small and are hard to detect. For this reason, it never hurts to have a plumber inspect the unit yearly to try to catch problems before they start or at an early age. 

At other times, the leak is very noticeable. A pool of water remains underneath the appliance and never dries up. When this is the case, the inner tank of the unit has likely failed and a new appliance will be required. 

Don’t immediately assume the worst. It might be that a valve needs to be tightened or another repair is all that is required to have the unit functioning properly again. A trained plumber can determine the source of the leak and offer solutions that will ensure the unit is working properly and the home is not at risk. 

3. Frequent Water Heater Repairs

Although it’s nice not to have to purchase a new hot water heater, there are times when doing so just makes more sense. If a homeowner is constantly contacting a plumber to make repairs, it may be time to completely replace the unit.

Stop and consider how much money has been spent repairing the appliance in the past year. Many experts say if the repairs cost more than 40% of the purchase price of a new unit the time has come to replace it. Others put this figure even lower, saying if they are more than 30% of the purchase price, the purchase of a new hot water heater should happen right away. 

Only you can determine how much you are comfortable spending to keep an older unit up and running. Be aware, however, that frequent breakdowns are a sign the entire unit is ready to go. Who knows how much damage is done with each mechanical failure to other parts that must work harder when one starts to break? 

Call in a plumber to evaluate the unit and provide a professional recommendation on the best course of action. Keep in mind the age of the unit at this time as well. By doing so, you’ll know when the right time is to repair and when a replacement is called for. 

2. Cold Water

When a hot water heater fails to produce water at the desired temperature consistently, a repair is likely needed or a new unit might be required. At times, the problem is very simple to resolve. The thermostat might need to be adjusted, the circuit breaker may have tripped, or the pilot light is out. 

If the problem doesn’t lie in one of these three areas, don’t give up hope that the unit is fixable. A bad heating element can lead to water that never reaches the desired temperature or hot water that runs out a minute into your shower. The plumber can determine if this is the case. 

Nevertheless, there may be situations where the unit does need to be replaced, and the plumber can determine why this is the case. 

1. Everyday Usage

Although this isn’t an actual sign that forewarns of water heater failure, it is something a person should take into consideration when determining if a new unit might be needed. This is how often the water heater is called into action. 

Maintaining the appliance can help to extend its lifespan, but if you have a large family the hot water heater is used more frequently. This factors into how long the appliance will hold up and when a water heater installation will be needed. 

For instance, a single person living in a household might find his or her unit lasts fifteen years before a new hot water heater installation is required. In contrast, a family of five might find their appliance needs to be replaced every eight years. This is because the unit is called on to produce hot water more frequently, meaning the components are put to work more often and are subject to more wear and tear. 

Trust Newark Delaware’s #1 Plumbing Service

Examine your water heater once a month just to make certain no problems are developing. If you notice any of the above signs, call a plumber to have a professional inspection carried out. Doing so can help to prevent bigger problems from arising. 

While the purchase of a new hot water heater is never exciting, it is something that must be done. Talk with the plumber about the different options available. You might find you save money by replacing the current unit as less energy is required to provide the water you desire. That is sure to be appreciated in the long run.

When the cold months come, a home’s plumbing components are more vulnerable than ever before. Once temperatures plummet, the residual water in the lines can freeze and cause bursting. It is important homeowners can determine if they have a problem with frozen pipes. 

In Newark, Delaware, frozen pipes are commonplace during the cold of winter. Plumbers frequently receive calls from frantic homeowners who have lost their water supply or have a burst pipe due to ice damage. When pipes are frozen, homeowners need to know the signs so they can call a plumber right away. 

Why Do Pipes Freeze?

No matter how strong a home’s plumbing pipes are, frozen water is a formidable and expanding force that can cause destruction. Water expands greatly in its frozen state, and the force released due to the expansion can cause even metal pipes to crack or burst. Minute cracks can lead to water damage that goes unnoticed for long periods of time. 

A common reason plumbing pipes freeze is because they are not insulated. Plumbing can be placed under flooring and in crawl spaces or basements where temperatures can drop lower than other areas of the home. Pipe freezing is an issue that can be stressful to handle. Knowing the warning signs allows homeowners to be proactive. 

How to Tell If Plumbing Pipes are Frozen

There are multiple signs a homeowner may notice when they have a problem with frozen pipes. Being aware of these signs is essential for ensuring the homeowner will know when to call a plumber to have their pipes repaired. 

1. One of the first signs homeowners will notice is a lack of water coming out of their faucets. If multiple faucets are not producing water, it is time to seek plumbing repair. When this is occurring, it means the water has frozen in part of the pipe and the pressure is no longer high enough to push water through. It can also mean the pipe is completely blocked because of the expanded ice. 
2. If a homeowner can see their exposed pipes, they may be covered in an icy residue. They may also have a coating of condensation on the outer surface. Should this occur, it likely means the inside of the pipe is completely frozen in that section. The most vulnerable pipes are those located under flooring, in the basement, or in outside walls. 
3. Sometimes, the sewer line will freeze and this can produce a strong sewer smell in the home. If sewer smells are infiltrating the home when temperatures outside are below freezing, this could mean there is a frozen sewer line that needs attention. A frozen sewer line can rupture and create a big mess for homeowners to handle.
4. It is common for frozen pipes to exhibit unusual sounds. Gurgling, clanging, and banging are prevalent as the ice begins to thaw and move. In some cases, the home’s hot water heater may begin to moan and groan as water slowly begins to flow again. If a frozen pipe bursts, homeowners may need to seek a plumber for repiping. This process allows old pipes to be replaced and insulated so the problem of freezing is halted. 
5. Another sign of frozen pipes is a pipe that has become cracked. Cracked pipes occur when the pressure inside builds up due to freezing water. Pipes that are cracked can lead to serious water damage if the water supply is not shut off before the thaw occurs. Over time, frequent freezing can lead to weakened pipes. If a pipe is weakened, it is more likely to succumb to the pressure exerted by the expanding ice. 

Improperly Thawing Pipes Can Be Dangerous

Some homeowners make the mistake of trying to heat up their pipes to thaw them quickly. Using a space heater or a hairdryer is not recommended and can lead to cracks due to the quick change in temperature. The right tools are needed to carefully thaw pipes, and plumbers have been trained to remove ice obstructions safely and effectively from plumbing lines.

There are many methods people use to thaw their pipes. There have been news stories where home and apartment fires have been started because of people using torches and other heat tools to try to thaw their pipes. They think this will solve their problem, but it often leads to much greater issues. 

Not only will these devices cause the possibility of fires, but they can also lead to serious injuries. These heating tools can even cause certain types of pipes to melt which could lead to leaks or a major influx of water in the home. 

It is wise for homeowners to rely on a professional plumber to ensure their frozen pipes are handled properly so no injuries or damages occur. A plumber should be called right away so the water will begin to flow again without using unsafe measures.

How to Protect Pipes from Becoming Frozen

Because frozen pipes can be such a hassle, prevention is important. Thankfully, there are some steps homeowners can take to ensure their pipes are less likely to freeze during the coldest of weather. Taking the following steps will keep the pipes in your home running as they should, even when the outdoor temperatures begin to drop below freezing. 

1. If you own a swimming pool or a sprinkler system, properly draining the lines before winter hits is essential. These lines are susceptible to freezing and should be drained to avoid issues. Many homeowners rely on their landscaping company to handle the drain lines for winter preparation.
2. Adding insulation to vulnerable areas in the home is essential for protection against frozen pipes. The attic, crawlspaces, and basement should all be checked for a lack of insulation. Adding insulation will help to keep these areas warmer so freezing is less likely to occur.
3. Outside hoses should be removed and put away in storage until winter is over and they are needed again. These hoses are especially vulnerable to freezing because they are exposed to the elements. Putting them away and keeping the drain line open will allow for ice expansion without causing damage to the line.
4. Asking a plumber about pipe insulation is also helpful. There are different products that can be used to protect pipes and keep the temperatures inside warmer so freezing does not occur. While you can certainly take a DIY approach, it is wise to consult with a professional plumber to ensure the right products are purchased and installed correctly. 
5. Checking for exposed pipes will help you to determine where added protection is needed. Under the sink and in the garage are two areas that are sometimes overlooked. When in doubt, an inspection carried out by a plumber can prove useful in identifying the areas that need attention inside and outside the home. 
6. If some areas of pipe are becoming chronically frozen, having a plumber reroute the lines may be the best method of preventing refreezing. Rerouting is best carried out by a professional plumber who can make sure everything is installed according to code. 

Newark Winters Can Cause Plumbing Nightmares

It can be stressful waking up to a burst pipe or finding out you do not have water because they are frozen. Newark winters are not overly harsh, but there are many nights where the temperatures drop below freezing. 

Taking precautions before the extreme cold hits is much easier than dealing with frozen pipes after. It is important that homeowners have a plumbing inspection carried out each fall to ensure their pipes are ready for winter’s icy touch. 

December is when the cold really starts to set in, so it is vital the inspection is carried out not later than the end of November. With a little prevention, your home can be protected from the inside out. 

Dealing with frozen pipes in the winter can lead to a big headache. Prevention is important and means making sure your plumbing is properly insulated. If a pipe freezes, it is best to let it thaw without intervention. 

Calling a plumber will help to ensure the right steps are taken so you can rest assured your frozen pipes are safely thawed. A plumber can also help you with making sure the problem does not occur again. Frozen pipes are best left to the professionals who know how to treat them.

5 Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid This Winter

Nobody wants to find a problem with their plumbing system during the winter months. In certain situations, diagnosing and fixing the problem may require long hours spent outside in freezing temperatures and snow. 

To prevent issues from arising when outdoor conditions are less than ideal, homeowners should have their plumbing system examined by a licensed professional at least once every other year. Of course, even unexpected problems can arise. Below are a few common plumbing issues seen during the winter months and information on how they can be avoided. 

5. Frozen Pipes

When the temperatures drop, pipes may freeze and bring about a big and often costly mess. This happens when water expands inside the pipe. It has nowhere to go and the pipe then bursts from the pressure. Furthermore, if there is a great deal of moisture during the winter months and the ground is unstable, any pipes that are buried underground may shift in the wet soil and crack. 

As the weather begins to change, it’s best to have the plumbing system examined to determine what measures need to be taken to prevent frozen pipes. The plumber can make recommendations as to what steps will be of most benefit at this time. They can even perform any needed plumbing repair services in Newark, Delaware or wherever you live to avoid bigger problems when the temperature drops.

4. Water Line Cracks or Leaks

While a pipe may not freeze completely and burst, any time water expands in the pipe damage could occur. This might be in the water lines inside the home or the lines leading to the municipal water supply. 

If the leak is small, it may not be detected until the water bill skyrockets. How can a homeowner determine if there is a problem before the water bill arrives? If one area of the property always seems to remain saturated, this is a sign there is an underground water leak that needs to be fixed. 

3. Clogged Drains

Drains can clog at any time of the year. However, when guests arrive for the holidays, the drains will receive more use and this can increase the risk of a clog in the system. 

In addition, people tend to cook more during the winter months. Cooking oils and other food items may become trapped in the drains and lead to a backup. 

Watch the drains during the winter months to see if the water is exiting at a slower rate. If it is, it’s time to call a plumber before the drain becomes completely blocked and you have a mess on your hands. Drain and sewer repair services may prevent this from happening. 

2. Water Heater Problems

Traditional water heaters store water in a tank. This water must be kept at the set temperature, which can put a lot of stress on the unit when it is cold outside. Most water heaters are only designed to last for approximately ten years, so it may be time to replace the one in your home. 

This is especially true if you have heard any unusual noises coming from the heater, such as pinging sounds or excessive knocking. Both are signs the water heater is about to go and needs to be replaced. Call for water heater repair services immediately before water floods the home. 

1. Septic System Failure

Septic systems often fail during the winter months as they receive more use. People spend more time at home when the temperatures drop or road conditions become unsafe. In addition, guests often come to visit for the holidays and this can put more stress on the system. 

Any problems with the septic system must be addressed immediately. What many don’t realize, however, is snow on the ground could lead to issues within the septic system. 

To maintain the system and identify any potential problems early, have the tank pumped before the weather turns cold and follow any recommendations made by the provider. Doing so reduces the risk of something going wrong when it is cold outside.

Every plumbing problem needs to be addressed immediately, regardless of the time of year. Water can do a great deal of damage to a home or property in a short period of time. Repairing this damage could be costly and time-consuming. 

The easiest way to reduce the risk of this happening is to schedule a plumbing system examination today. The time and money spent on this activity will be well worth it when you obtain peace of mind knowing that you have done everything possible to prevent problems before they occur.