Sump Pump
Sump Pump Types
There are four types of sump pumps commonly used – two are electric, one is water-powered while the fourth is available in either option.
| Pedestal – This type is an upright electric sump pump whose motor is located above the pump as it is not meant to get wet. It has a float-activated switch that turns the pump on when the water reaches a certain level. It is ideal for basements needing frequent water drainage. They are usually the least expensive but tend to be noisier than the submersibles. |  Pedestal Pump |
| Submersible – This electric sump pump is installed in ground and specifically designed to function underwater. It has the same float-activated switch as the pedestal. Submersibles are more expensive, but boast a longer life than the pedestal type. Their sealed, oil-cooled motors are protected from moisture and dust, making them quieter. |  Submersible Pump |
Water powered - This type of sump pump runs off the water pressure from your home plumbing system. It has the same float-activated switch as the electric sump pump types, and handles water at a comparable rate. Since the water-powered pump requires no electricity to operate, it is often installed alongside an electric sump and used as a back up system during a power failure.
|
 Water Power Pump |
| Floor Sucker Pumps – These sump pump types are used mostly in basements, cellars or crawl spaces which do not have an actual sump pit. They are called floor sucker pumps because they remove water to within a 1/8" of the floor (or other surfaces such as a roof or the ground). Available in various flow rates, under manual or automatic operation, while some are electronically controlled, the floor sucker pumps are versatile. They were particularly useful during the east coast storms this fall. |  Floor Sucker Pump |
Plastic
vs. Cast Iron Construction
All of the sump pump types are available in either plastic or cast iron.
For the cost-conscious homeowner, plastic sump pumps will suit some applications,
delivering a dependable product for a reasonable price. For contractor-grade,
longer-lasting applications, opt for the cast iron construction.
No matter which one you have or have chosen, all sump pump types should have a check valve on the water outlet pipe in order to prevent the water from running back into the sump when the pump shuts off. Water flowing back and forth can cause the pump to turn on and off more than necessary and shorten the life of the pump.
Choose the design and material of your sump pump based on the application in your home. Be it an electrical, water-powered or floor sucker model, your home is safer and more secure with a quality sump pump.
Click here to read more about sump pump installation.
Save money and go green by using energy efficient pumps.
