How Sump Pumps Work

During larger storms and periods of significant rainfall, municipal storm sewers can easily be filled to capacity or even overflow. When this happens, it is highly likely that excess rainwater and sewage can backup in the basements of houses and other buildings in the area. In order to prevent this potentially damaging health risk, many municipalities recommend that homeowners install backflow valves and sump pumps in all properties in order to protect against basement flooding during inclement weather.

Ground water leaks typically occur due to storms or high levels of rainfall. During these occurrences, the level of ground water increases until foundation weeping tiles are overwhelmed and water begins to force its way into your basement. In order to deal with this problem, installation of a sump pump in a sump pit is highly recommended by the City of Toronto.

Installation and Usage

Sump pumps are installed in a sump pit at the lowest point of the house where water collects. This way, when water begins to flood the home, it naturally collects in this pit and prevents damage to other parts of the home. When the water reaches a certain level, the pump will automatically turn on and begin pumping the water out of the home. Whenever excessive ground water causes flooding in the basement, the sump pump will prevent water levels from getting to high, helping to protect your home from damage.

Because many sump pumps operate on electricity, it’s often recommended that you have a secondary back up unit installed. These backup units should be water operated in order to ensure they continue to function even during the worst storms. Because these systems use the water pressure of the water supply coming in to your home, they will continue to operate as long as you are still connected to the water system. Providing an excellent defense against flooding, they have no moving parts, do not require power, and can remove up to 1300 gallons of water per hour.

Backflow Valves

Another important aspect of protecting against basement flooding is installing a backflow valve on the main sanitary sewer line of your home. These valves only allow water to move in one direction, preventing overflowing municipal lines from backing up into your basement.

These lines can also be placed under high stress by inclement weather and, without something to prevent it, can easily flood your basement with raw sewage and rainwater. Protect your home by applying for a backflow valve permit and installing a sump pump today!