Sump Pump Repair and Installation
Your sump pump has only one job, but it's critically important: preventing flood damage in your basement. But you may not even think about your sump pump until a heavy rainfall makes you realize that it isn't working right. That's when McCarthy Services can assist you. So, when are you most likely to need sump pump repairs or some preventive maintenance?
- During a drought: If your sump pump is rarely in use, it might struggle to adapt to a sudden downpour.
- Once a year: Routine maintenance doesn't have to be weekly or monthly; once a year should be enough to keep your unit in working condition.
- Early spring: There's a good chance your pump will work overtime to keep up with the constant flow of thawing show and increased rainfall.
- After a flood: The damage may be done, but repairs now will prevent the same thing from happening again.
How does pumping work?
Sump pumps are located in "sump pits" in basements and crawlspaces. When water seeps into the pit, it is pumped away from the building to prevent a build-up and flooding. The main pieces of a standard sump pump (which may need occasional tune-ups) include a pressure sensor or float activator, which notifies the pump when to turn on, and a check valve that stops water from flowing back into the pit.
Should I get a second sump pump?
If you know your basement is likely to flood, you should consider installing a backup unit in case your primary sump pump develops a fault. If you need your sump pump fixed, our experts will examine your backup unit as well. If you don't own one, we can suggest some choices and help you discover a backup unit to buy. Preventing water damage from happening the first time will help you keep more money in your pocket in the long run.
Sump pump installation and replacement
A major problem with flood-prone basements is the costly repairs that come with it, which is why a sump pump could be a huge benefit for your home. After heavy rains or snowfall, a sump pump removes excess water in your basement to prevent accumulation and further damage. Whether it's your first pump or you're simply considering replacing your current model, make McCarthy Services your first choice for quality sump pump installation. We can guide you through the process, including:
- The pros and cons of automatic versus manual operation
- Deciding between a submersible or pedestal type
- The different types of water level sensors
- How the until will be powered (typically hardwired)
Does your sump pump need to be replaced?
The time is right to replace your sump pump if it's more than 10 years old and doesn't pump water as effectively as it did when it was new. This can quickly become a big problem if there are heavy rains and your home's foundation is on a lower level than the water table. To prevent water collection in your basement, it is important to be proactive and replace your sump pump before the next storm.
Selecting the right sump pump
It's not always easy to decide exactly which features, functions, and specifications you're going to need in a sump pump. Our experts can assess your level of risk—taking several factors into account, including your home's layout—recommend the right option, and propose an installation timeline that works for your schedule. They might also discuss the advantages of a backup sump pump if you're likely to experience serious flooding in future.