Sump Pump

Sump pumps keep water out of basements and crawl spaces by pumping water out and away from your home. They are essential for preventing flooding, along with all associated danger and damage. At Apollo Home, we’ve provided Cincinnati residents with sump pump services for many years.

While some homeowners attempt to install sump pumps themselves, a plumber’s expertise is invaluable when determining what kind of sump pump to get, where to replace it, and how to set it up. If you’re looking for same-day sump pump services, call us now at 513-443-4212. Keep reading to learn more about sump pumps and how we can help you with yours.

Two Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible.

Pedestal Pumps

These pumps sit on top of a basin. The motor is cooled with air and needs sufficient airflow to keep the pump from overheating, making it less ideal for smaller basements. Pedestal pumps are easier to maintain and repair.

Submersible Pumps

Submersible pumps sit inside the sump pit and operate with a quieter, waterproof motor.

Sump Pump Installation

If you need sump pump installation in Cincinnati, we’re here to help. Our knowledgeable plumbers can assess the needs of your house and determine the best option to keep your basement or crawl space clear of water. They’ll advise you on what type of pump to get and will know precisely where to place it.

The Sump Pump Installation Process

Whether you’re replacing a sump pump or installing one for the first time, it needs to be installed where it will collect water more effectively. After selecting your new pump’s location, we will drill into your home’s foundation to set the pump basin below your floor level.

Then, we will secure your basin and level a spot for the sump pump. After that, we install piping with a one-way valve to pump the water out of the house into the yard and away from your foundation.

We will discuss your options for how the sump pump drains into your yard. We’ll make sure to add insulation around the hole in the wall and pour new concrete to make your sump pump location discrete and secure.

Sump Pump Repair

We repair all brands and models of home sump pumps. The typical lifespan of a sump pump is ten to 15 years. Odds are, yours will need to be repaired sometime between installing and replacing it.

If you are unsure if your sump pump is working, schedule an inspection with us. You don’t want to be caught off guard by a flash summer storm with a broken sump pump and end up with a flooded basement.

Does Your Sump Pump Need Repairs?

Wear and tear over the lifespan of your sump pump can eventually cause problems. While basic sump pump care can protect your system, it’s still good to know when your sump pump needs to be repaired.

Warning signs that your sump pump needs to be repaired include:

• Loud grinding noises coming from the sump pump

• Excessive vibrating when running

• Irregular cycling

• Mold, moisture damage, or musty smells in the basement

• Weak suction or failure to remove standing water in the sump pump basin

• The pump fails to engage when the float is active

• If your pump is older than ten years, it should be inspected

Sump Pump Maintenance

A licensed plumber should inspect your sump pump regularly. They will test the critical components of the pump and check the water level to ensure it’s not too high. The plumber should also inspect the pit and pipes for clogs and debris. Check out our sump pump care article for more information.

Sump Pump FAQ

Which homes need a sump pump?

Any home where any part of the structure is below ground level should have a sump pump. For example, if your home has a basement, cellar, or crawl space, you will need to have a sump pump installed.

How does a sump pump work?

A sump pump protects your home by removing water that collects in the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. As groundwater rises, it flows into a basin (called a sump pit) where the pump is installed. When water in the pit reaches a certain level, it triggers a float mechanism that activates the pump.

The pump then pushes this water through a discharge pipe away from your foundation, typically into a storm drain or designated drainage area in your yard. This simple but effective system helps prevent flooding and water damage to your home.

What Size Sump Pump Do I Need?

The right sump pump size depends on several factors unique to your home. Our plumbers consider your soil type (sandy soil typically needs more pumping capacity than clay), your home's square footage, local groundwater conditions, and basement layout. Some larger homes with multiple low spots may need more than one pump for complete protection. During your consultation, we'll assess these factors to recommend the right pump size for your specific situation.

Schedule Sump Pump Service Today

If your sump pump struggles to pump enough water away, it is time to call professional plumbers. We’ll inspect your sump pump and see if we can fix it or if it needs replacing. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 513-443-4212 or reach out online.