Arlington Heights Sump Pump Installation and Repair
24 Hour Emergency Sump Pump Service
What Are Sump Pumps and How Do They Work?
To prevent flooding in your basement, you can install window wells, repair cracks in the foundation, and keep your downspouts clean. But, if water is still getting into your basement, you may need to install a sump pump.
A sump pump is a pump that removes water in the area of a home that is physically the lowest. This area may be in a well or pit dug beneath the crawlspace or basement of a home. Not every home needs a sump pump, but they are highly recommended in areas with frequent or heavy flooding. If your sump pump is working properly, you may not even be aware that you have one.
Sump pumps automatically turn on when groundwater reaches a certain level, marked by a switch that must be activated. It then drains the water out of the area until the level returns to where it should be. The excess water is usually drained into a retention pond, a dry well, a storm drain, or the yard.
Diagram of how a sump pump works.
Sump Pump Battery Backup in Arlington Heights
Diagram of how a sump pump works.
Sump Pumps are something we don’t usually think about until they fail. Although it's not too common, there are several reasons a sump pump may fail, including power outages, mechanical failures, or excessive use. When your sump pump does fail - or you lose power - the last thing you want is for water to be backed up and flood your basement. Fortunately, that's where battery backups come in! Sump pump battery backups work to supplement your primary pumps by giving you several additional hours of protection in the case that your primary pump fails.
Because of the high risks associated with sump pump failure, most major insurance companies suggest installing a battery backup sump pump. After all, if your basement does flood you will be the one most inconvenienced.
Do I Need A Sump Pump?
If you're constructing a new home and unsure whether you need a sump pump or live in a house that isn't typically prone to flooding, you may be wondering if you need a sump pump installed. You may benefit from a sump pump in the following circumstances:
- The soil on your property drains poorly.
- You have or plan to have a finished basement that serves as a living space.
- Your property is located on a flat plot with poor drainage.
- You live where there is frequent rain or snow.
- You had problems with water or plumbing in the past.
- Your property is situated below the local water table.
Dahme Mechanical Industries Inc. specializes in the installation of new sump pumps. Reach out to us today, and someone will be glad to answer any questions or schedule a time to visit your property.
Benefits of a Sump Pump
While you may not think about a sump pump very often, they're essential to prevent damage to your home due to flooding. They also help with the following:
- Improving the quality of the air inside your home.
- Protecting your property against sewage backup.
- Reducing mildew and mold growth on your property.
- Keeping the foundation of your home intact.
If located in a basement, a sump pump will help keep the entire area drier, warmer, and more comfortable year-round.
Know Your Sump Pump's Functionalities
One of the most important aspects of maintaining a functioning sump pump is to know your unit as well as possible. This knowledge will help you be more aware of what to expect in your sump pump's needs, strengths, and weaknesses. You should know:
- Approximate age of your sump pump.
- Where to purchase replacement parts.
- Any existing issues.
DIY Maintenance Recommendations
The following maintenance tasks are recommended for homes with sump pumps every three to four months:
- Unplug your pump and empty any standing water from the basin.
- Remove debris from the basin if there is any.
- Clean the pump inlet screen and ensure it's not obstructed.
- Plug the pump back in and pour several gallons of water into the basin to verify that your switch is functioning properly.
The following maintenance tasks are recommended annually. Some may require a skilled professional, but you may be able to take care of some yourself. These tasks include:
Pump Bearings
Verify if the pump bearings of your particular sump pump require lubrication. If so, use the recommended oil to grease the bearings. If your pump has sealed bearings, you can skip this step.
Pump Discharge
Search the area where your pump drains to check for obstruction and ensure the pump can drain fully. Residual water can cause damage to your pipes or home foundation, so this step is important.
Sump Pump Backup
You may not pay much attention to your sump pump until it's too late. Sump pumps can fail for several reasons, including mechanical failures, power outages, or excessive use. A failing sump pump can lead to flooding of your basement or home, damaged pipes, and even foundation damage. Fortunately, we can provide a solution. A battery backup can work to supplement your primary sump pump for several hours of added protection, even if your sump pump has failed.
When To Call a Professional for Help
Even with proper maintenance on a sump pump, they won't last forever, and sometimes unforeseen problems do occur. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to call your Arlington Heights sump pump professional.
- Visible rust.
- Constant running.
- Continuous cycling on and off could be due to an internal wiring issue.
- Strange noises may suggest worn-out parts.
- Oil leaks may indicate that the pump may fail.
- Doesn't turn on.
If you need professional help with your sump pump, the Dahme Mechanics Industries, Inc. team is here for you 24 hours a day.
Contact the Sump Pump Experts at Dahme Mechanical
If you're in need of a sump pump installation or repair, or a battery backup installation, give the experts at Dahme Mechanical Industries a call. We even offer 24/7 emergency sump pump repair and installation! No matter the time of day or day of the week, we'll be there when you need us most! Our team will ensure that - even when the worst happens - your home remains dry, protecting you from costly damage and the headache of repairs.
Dahme Mechanical Industries, Inc. serves Arlington Heights and the surrounding areas including Des Plaines, Palatine, Hinsdale, Western Springs and more! Follow the link below to see if our expert technicians service your area.