4 Things to Consider When Buying a New Sump Pump
When it comes to certain products, many people can’t wait to try out the latest model or hear about the newest features. Smartphones, cars, and video game systems come to mind. But when was the last time you thought about the features of your sump pump? It may not be the most exciting appliance in the world, but a high-quality sump pump is crucial for keeping your basement dry, your personal belongings safe, and your home healthy.
When choosing a new sump pump, a few important areas to consider are its horsepower, gallons-per-minute capacity, the size of the basin, and whether or not you need a battery backup.
Important features to look for in your next sump pump
- Power. The most notable number of a sump pump is often its horsepower, or HP for short. Typically ranging from ¼ to 1 HP, this indicates the strength behind the pumping power. This is important for a few different reasons. If the sump pump gets frequent use (such as if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or your home is in a flood zone), a higher HP may be necessary to keep up with demand. If a lower HP sump gets overworked, it could reduce the overall service life. Also, depending on where your sump pump is discharged, you may need a more powerful pump.
- Gallons per minute (GPM). The capacity of a sump pump goes somewhat hand-in-hand with its horsepower, but it’s another number you should be aware of. The GPM rating tells you how much water the sump pump can remove from the basin in a minute. Keep in mind that all this water must travel through a 1-1/2 in. pipe. For the average basement, 40-50 GPM is a good starting point, but models with additional capacity are available based on your home’s needs. It’s a good idea to talk with a professional plumber to estimate your maximum capacity needs.
- Size and depth of the basin. The basin or pit is the hole in your basement floor where the sump pump is installed. The standard size basin is about 30 inches and 18-24 inches in diameter. In reality though, basins can vary, which can affect your sump pump requirements. For example, if the basin is deeper or wider than normal, it can hold more water and may require a more powerful sump pump.
- Battery backup. If your home often loses electrical power during a storm or you have finished basement, you may want to consider a sump pump with a backup battery. This battery is a secondary power source that kicks on and keeps the sump pump running if the electricity goes out. This feature can prevent catastrophic flooding in your basement during a storm.
Sump pump experts in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio
There are more factors to consider when picking out the best sump pump, but this is a great place to start. For recommendations and a free estimate to install or replace a sump pump in your home, talk to the pros at Ohio Buckeye Plumbing. To schedule an appointment, call (440) 283-9377.