Whether you've experienced a flooded basement, burst pipes, or persistent water damage, crawl space sump pumps can be your missing link to a less stressful clean-up. Especially in Virginia, where even minor water damage can result in mold growth, attract pests, and reduce the value of your building, having an easy and manageable solution on hand is crucial to peace of mind. Before considering installing or upgrading your current model, it's important to become more familiar with the system you currently have. If you don't already have one installed, talking with your local industry experts, like those at Victory Pest Management, can put you on the right track to an easy installation.
A sump pump is specifically designed to collect water into a sump basin found in the floor of most basements. Typically installed at the lowest point of your building; these are the key to avoid significant water damage and repair bills. A crawl space sump pump is often a smaller version of this pit device, but it's just as crucial to set up and maintain under your house. Your most common options to choose from are pedestal pumps versus submersible pumps. Pedestal pumps are slightly above the ground and are typically installed in buildings that don't have space to fully submerge the pit. However, if you can, a submersible pump is often the preferred choice for homeowners since it sits entirely underground.
It's important to note that for some homeowners, having multiple sump pumps can be beneficial for your area. Not only does it help reduce the water in your crawl space significantly faster but having multiple can save you if one happens to malfunction. Luckily, it's not exceptionally difficult to maintain the system; focus on keeping it clean, the electrical work well insulated, and clear out clogs that occur. In addition, most pumps are equipped with automatic sensors that can notify you when it's stopped working. You'll need to familiarize yourself with the notification system to quickly recognize the difference between a small error and a bigger problem.
The main factor to keep in mind is your sump pump lifespan; pedestal pumps have a longer lifespan than submersible pumps, lasting anywhere from two to five years or more if maintained well. Another area homeowners commonly overlook is strength - although pedestal pumps can be less expensive than their submersible counterparts, not all models can have the strength to get the job done well. Before purchasing a new system based on metrics you're unfamiliar with, consult an experienced installation technician to know what parameters you need to meet. Otherwise, you could end up out of pocket in the long run with a pump that cannot discharge water efficiently.
During the spring and summer, Virginia is riddled with frequent thunderstorms and afternoon showers. Without an effective crawl space sump pump, you could find increased damage to your pipes, foundation, and pest prevention efforts. If you're looking for the best sump pump for your building, take a moment to discuss your options with local industry experts. Victory Pest Management is dedicated to helping local homeowners keep their buildings well maintained and functioning efficiently.
