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How Does a Sump Pump Work?
A sump pump prevents water from flooding a basement or crawl space by collecting water in a pit and pumping it away from the home.
For homes across Central Illinois, a sump pump can be an important defense against heavy rain, snowmelt, and saturated soil. Tiger has been serving the region since 1993, helping homeowners with sump pump installation, repair, and maintenance.
What Is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a device installed in a sump pit, which is a basin located in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space.
As water gathers around the foundation, it flows into the pit instead of collecting on the floor. When the water reaches a certain level, the pump moves it through a discharge pipe and away from the home.
Sump pumps are common throughout the Midwest because spring storms and wet soil can put extra pressure on foundations. Without a way to move that water away, basements and crawl spaces become vulnerable to moisture problems.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
The process happens automatically.
- Water enters the sump pit.
- The water level rises inside the basin.
- A float switch or sensor detects the water level.
- The pump turns on.
- Water is pushed through a discharge pipe away from the house.
- The pump shuts off once the water level drops.
Most homeowners never notice the system working until a heavy storm arrives. When the pump is operating correctly, it removes water before it becomes a larger problem.
Types of Sump Pumps
Pedestal Sump Pump
A pedestal sump pump has the motor mounted above the sump pit.
Because the motor stays out of the pit, repairs and maintenance are generally easier. These systems are frequently found in older homes and are sometimes chosen because of their lower upfront cost.
The tradeoff is that pedestal pumps tend to be louder and less discreet than other options.
Submersible Sump Pump
A submersible sump pump sits inside the sump pit.
These pumps are designed to operate underwater and are generally quieter because the motor remains below floor level. They are commonly installed in homes that deal with larger amounts of groundwater or frequent storms.
Submersible pumps are a common choice for homes that have experienced sump pump flooding because they are designed to handle heavier water loads.
Why Sump Pumps Are Important
Water around a foundation can create expensive problems.
A working sump pump helps limit:
- Basement flooding
- Water damage
- Mold growth
- Foundation concerns
- Damage to stored belongings
In parts of Central Illinois where heavy rain and saturated soil are common, a sump pump provides an extra layer of protection against unwanted water entering the home.
Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Repair or Replacement
Like any mechanical system, sump pumps wear out over time.
Watch for these warning signs:
- The pump will not turn on
- Water remains in the pit
- The pump runs continuously
- Unusual noises or vibrations
- Water enters the basement during storms
- The system has failed before
Any of these warning signs should be checked before the next storm. Catching a problem early is a lot easier than dealing with water in the basement after the pump stops working.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
A sump pump that stops working doesn't always tell you why it failed.
The pump, discharge line, float switch, electrical connection, and drainage path all need to work together. Problems in any one of those areas can affect performance.
If a new system is needed, proper plumbing installation and discharge routing are important. A licensed plumber can evaluate the system, identify the source of the problem, and recommend the right solution.
Why Trust Tiger Is the Right Choice to Repair or Install a New Sump Pump
Tiger has been serving Central Illinois since 1993. Our plumbers, HVAC technicians, and electricians work together to solve problems that affect the entire home, not just a single system.
From homes near Historic U.S. Route 66 in Springfield to neighborhoods along Constitution Trail in Bloomington, Tiger provides sump pump solutions tailored to each property's needs.
We provide sump pump repair, new system installation, and ongoing maintenance. Homeowners looking for routine system inspections can also ask about our club membership program.
You can view all of our service areas throughout Central Illinois to find the location nearest you.
If your sump pump is showing signs of trouble or you want to install a new system before the next storm arrives, contact Tiger today.
