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Do You Need to Install a Sump Pump in Your Crawl Space?

WRITTEN BY:
Blake Heron
|
Crawl Space Sump Pump
Crawl Space Sump Pump
Home » Do You Need to Install a Sump Pump in Your Crawl Space?

Do You Need to Install a Sump Pump in Your Crawl Space?

Every year, 1 in 50 homes are affected by water damage. All it takes is for a bad storm to pass through or the groundwater to start rising, and then suddenly, you’ve got puddles of water under your house.

Most people think of the basement when they think of house flooding, but your house’s crawl space is also susceptible to water damage. One way to prevent it from flooding is by getting a sump pump.

If you know that water damage has impacted your house previously and you’re concerned about it happening again, a sump pump installation will ease your worries.

What Is a Crawl Space?

A crawl space is the section of your home located between the ground floor and the first floor. It’s tiny and hollow and, therefore, not easily accessible. Crawl spaces give houses more height and access to the most important systems in your home. It is home to the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as insulation and irrigation.

These parts alone are a big reason to prevent water from accumulating in your crawl space. On top of that, water seepage can result in mold and pest infestation. It is best to remove the water as soon as possible.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a water removal device that is located in the crawl space. It will detect any leaks and collect and drain the water, preventing it from rising and going anywhere near the guts of your house.

There are two different types of sump pumps: pedestal pumps and submersible pumps. The pedestal pump lasts about 25 to 30 years. However, that is its only advantage over the submersible pump. The submersible pump sits below the ground, which prevents it from overheating, and it lasts about ten years.

Signs You Need a Sump Pump in Your Crawl Space

There are some clear signs that you may need to install a sump pump in your crawl space. If you’ve noticed standing water, dampness, or a musty odor in your crawl space, these can all be signs of excess moisture. Additionally, if you live in an area with a high water table or frequent heavy rainfall, you may also need a sump pump.

How to Prepare for Sump Pump Installation

It is highly recommended that you hire a professional to install the sump pump. Keep in mind that the installation process will take a significant amount of time, especially since only one person can fit in the crawl space. It’s a multi-step process that needs to be tested afterward.

Step 1: Dig a Hole

Find the lowest point in your crawl space and dig a hole about two feet deep.

Step 2: Create a Decline Around the Hole

Move the soil around the hole so that it forms a decline. This will allow water to flow down towards the sump pump instead of collecting nearby.

Step 3: Consider Placing a Liner

While not mandatory, placing a liner before putting it in the basin is important. The liner should have small holes to allow groundwater to pass through but stop mud from getting into and clogging your pump.

Step 4: Install the Basin

Install the basin tightly against the liner to prevent water from collecting between them. This will ensure that water flows into the basin and towards the pump.

Step 5: Fill the Gaps 

If there is a gap between the basin and the liner, fill it with stones to ensure water flows through, and dirt doesn’t.

Step 6: Cover the Basin

Put an airtight lid on the basin to prevent radon gases and moisture from entering your crawl space. This will also prevent any damage to your crawl space from the evaporation of water from the basin.

The Sump Pump Installation Process

Now that there’s a designated space for the sump pump, it’s time to install it.

Step 1: Install the Sump Pump

Ensure that the sump pump is standing straight up and check that water won’t be flowing near any electric wires.

Step 2: Install a Float Switch

Install a float switch, which will activate the pump when the water rises in the basin.

Step 3: Install a Check Valve

Install a check valve on the drainage pipe to ensure that water only flows in one direction and doesn’t make its way back into the pump.

Step 4: Route the Drainage Pipe Outside

Attach the drainage pipe to the pump and route it outside of the house. Make sure it’s far away from your home, and its length is appropriate depending on your yard’s size and slope.

Step 5: Lay Down Lining

Lay down lining on the crawl space floor so any water from plumbing leaks flows to the sump pump. However, ensure you get your plumbing leaks fixed since the lining and the sump pump can only handle so much water.

Maintenance and Check-Ups

After the sump pump is installed, it’s essential to take measures to ensure it continues to function properly for years to come. Here are some maintenance and check-ups that can help:

Testing the Pump

First, you need to make sure that your pump is still standing upright. You can test to see if it is working by pouring some water in the basin and seeing if it collects and pumps it out. If it is not working, you might need to check the impeller, float switch, check valve, or intake.

Cleaning the Pump

Sometimes, the sump pump only needs a quick clean to get working again. This could mean you need to unclog the discharge at the end of the vent’s opening, as sediment and silt tend to build up there. If there’s too much buildup on the grate, preventing the water from escaping, you might need to clean that, too.

Checking the Discharge

Even though the pump might be sending the water back up, it might not be getting far enough away from your house. If it doesn’t get at least 20 ft away, the water could filter back through the ground. This forces your sump pump to work twice as hard.

Yearly Check-Up

Don’t forget to check your pump every year. It’s important to make sure your pump is in good working order. You can hire a professional to do this for you or you can do it yourself. The check-up should include a thorough inspection of the pump, as well as any necessary cleaning or repairs. By performing regular check-ups, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and keep your home safe from water damage.

Extra Recommendations

When it comes to sump pumps, there are a few extra things to consider beyond installation and maintenance.

Closing Off the Crawl Space

One way to help prevent excessive water from leaking into your crawl space is to close it off. This can be done with the use of a plastic vapor barrier or encapsulation system which seals off the crawl space from any outside air and moisture. This can help keep your crawl space dry and reduce the risk of water damage.

Alarm Systems

Investing in an alarm system for your sump pump can be a good idea. This way, if your pump fails or stops working, you’ll be alerted to the problem before it’s too late. Many modern sump pumps come with built-in alarm systems, but you can also purchase them separately.

Backup Batteries

Power outages are a common cause of sump pump failure, which is why it’s a good idea to invest in a backup battery for your pump. This will ensure that your pump continues to work even if the power goes out. Some backup batteries are designed to switch on automatically when the power goes out, while others need to be manually activated.

Pump Stand

To prevent sediment and silt from clogging up your pump’s valve, consider investing in a pump stand. A pump stand lifts your sump pump up off the bottom of the basin which helps to prevent debris from entering the valve. This can extend the life of your pump and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.

Cost of Sump Pump Installations

The cost of a sump pump installation in a crawl space can vary depending on various factors, such as the location, type of sump pump system, and complexity of the installation. The sump pump itself is not that expensive as far as household appliances go. It is roughly $400 – 800 for all the materials. However, the cost of installing a sump pump in a crawl space is a bit pricier, estimated at $2,500. The accompanying crawl space French drains can range from $4,000-$10,000.

At BAY Crawl Space and Foundation Repair, we are committed to offering our customers great prices for superior installations and even better customer service. Get in touch with us today to get a custom quote for a sump pump installation in your home.

Protect Your House

Think of it this way: a sump pump in your crawl space is like having extra insurance. Hopefully, it’s not an item you’ll need to use regularly, but you won’t have to stress out as much about water damage if you do own one. Save your crawl space from flooding and get a quote on a sump pump installation today.

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