Sump pumps work to remove water from it’s surrounding area and deposit that water into a pit which is a hole normally made in the basement level. With this in mind, it would seem that a crawl space would need a sump pump. But the truth of the matter is that it would only need one IF that particular crawl space tends to accumulate water.
Basically, if you don’t see any puddles or standing water of any kind in your crawl space – the chances are that you do not need a sump pump down there.
How Does A Sump Pump Work In A Crawl Space?
Sump pumps are normally installed in basements (at least here in Georgia that’s true). But even if they are installed in crawl spaces – they would work the same.
The purpose of a sump pump is to help to prevent flooding in a lower level floor like a basement. They are an essential piece of equipment if the foundation of the home sits below the water table.
Sump pumps pull water away from the house and depending on your property, either disperses it or dumps it into a well or municipal storm drain.
The majority of sump pumps use electricity to work – so know that it must be installed near an outlet that has a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). But there are “water pumps” available that don’t use electricity. Instead these run on your home’s water pressure.
When the sump pump detects excess water it automatically turns on (it’s activated by a float device).
Most pumps also have a device that looks and sounds like a fan. You will hear that turn on when the pump begins working. (Note: pedesal sump pumps are much noisier than the submersed pumps.)
The water collected by the sump pump is then sent through a pipe away from your building. Where it actually ends up will depend on your property, your home owners association (if you have one) and any laws and regulations in your area.
Maintaining a sump pump is a task that should be included in your yearly household chores. Read more here about how you can maintain your sump pump properly so that it will keep on working for you when and if you ever need it.
Where Should A Sump Pump Be Placed In A Crawl Space?
Sump pumps are normally installed in a crawlspace or the lowest area of your basement. A hole is dug out to create a pit and the sump pump is inserted into that pit. There are “pedestal sump pumps” which are installed above ground. These tend to be less expensive and easier to maintain.
We would recommend to install the sump pump in the lowest area of your crawl space.
Is It Normal To Have A Little Water In A Crawl Space?
Crawl spaces are normally open on one or two sides but then surrounded by the ground under your house so it seems that with that close proximity to dirt that it would be normal for your crawl space to be damp and possibly even have a little water in it from time to time.
But the truth is that no amount of water is good in your crawl space. It does not matter if the water is due to a pipe leak or condensation from heavy rainfall – the water in your crawl space can eventually cause mold and mildew damage, it can attract bugs and other pests, it can cause rot, etc.
So, if you notice that your crawl space is damp and worse, if you notice any signs of water there – then a sump pump may help you.
How Much Does It Cost To Put A Sump Pump In A Crawl Space?
Sump pump installations can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars – it just depends on the type of pump you choose to use and how easy or difficult it is to install it into the location you are looking to put it in to.
If you have any questions about sump pumps or are having some problems with one, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-505-8570. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.