Pypes Plumbing

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The Essential Role of Sump Pumps

Mack Partin

As winter starts to thaw and a wet and rainy spring make their way into the Detroit area, maintaining a dry and flood-free home becomes a practical concern. At Pypes Plumbing, we're dedicated to making this seasonal transition smooth and dry for you. As beautiful as the spring thaw can be, it often brings an unwelcome surprise – basement flooding. To avoid this waterlogged mess, let's talk sump pumps, sump pump backup systems, and what to keep an eye on if your sump pump fails.

So, what exactly is a sump pump and why is it a must-have for your home? Picture this - a dedicated watchman stationed in the lowest part of your basement, working round the clock to keep it dry. This guardian is your sump pump. The primary role of a sump pump is to divert water away from your home, preventing flooding when water levels surge. It channels the excess water to safer locations like storm drains or dry wells.

The Dynamic Duo: Battery-Powered and Water-Powered Backup Systems meets RPZ:

When it comes to superheroes of the sump pump world: the backup systems, they need a reliable partner, just like your sump pump does - battery-powered and water-powered backup systems.

Battery-Powered Backup Systems: These are your primary support when the power goes out. They operate on batteries, guaranteeing that your sump pump keeps functioning and your basement remains dry, even when a storm cuts off the electricity.

Water-Powered Backup Systems: These brilliantly crafted devices use your home's water supply to keep the sump pump running if there's a power cut. They're an excellent choice if you don’t get your water from a well system. If you have a well a battery powered back up system is the choice for your house. With water powered back up system, you will need an RPZ.

An RPZ, or Reduced Pressure Zone device, plays a critical role when using a water-powered backup system. Its main job is to safeguard your drinking water. The RPZ stops polluted water from getting drawn back into the clean water supply – think of it as a vigilant gatekeeper, ensuring that only pure, safe water enters your home. It’s not just a smart choice; it’s a safety imperative.

Particularly in areas like Oakland and Wayne County, where local codes often necessitate one, a water-powered backup sump pump tied with an RPZ is an essential feature of any home.

Lastly, let's not forget about the humble check valve. Installed on the sump pump's discharge line. This small but mighty valve helps keep the water from re-entering the sump pit once it's been discharged, thus preventing the pump from overworking and wearing out prematurely. Not only does it protect your home from the consequences of an overfilled sump pit, but it also guarantees a longer-lasting pump operation. At Pypes Plumbing, whenever we install a new or replace an existing sump pump, we also make it a point to switch out the check valve. This is just one of many ways we ensure your home stays dry and protected, season after season. Ready to spring into action? Get in touch with us, your Metro Detroit plumbing experts, and we'll help you make sure your home is ready for the thaw.

As always if you have any questions or would like to call to schedule an appointment or a quote call 248-560-6658. Here are some of the recommended product we use out in the field, that may come in handy. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.