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| Wayne Sump Pump |
A sump pump
sits at the lowest level of the basement, pumps out any water that accumulates
there and is an essential item for any basement in danger of flooding. When purchasing a new sump pump, you can select from many brands,
styles, and backup pump options.
Decide whether you want to purchase an above ground (pedestal) or
submersible pump. The advantage of a pedestal pump is the
easy access it provides when you need to repair it. A submersible pump, on the other hand, is hidden in the sump pump pit
and therefore makes less noise and doesn't get in the way. Selecting a pump with adequate pumping power is crucial for keeping
your basement dry. A sump pump that
removes either too much or too little water is not an appropriate choice. To
ensure that you purchase an appropriate pump you or your plumbing company will
first need to measure your basement's "system capacity." System
capacity is defined as the number of gallons of water per minute that will seep
into your sump pump pit under the worst storm or flood conditions. The other number you need to know is your discharge tube's
"dynamic head." The dynamic head is a numerical value that reflects
the work that must be done to pump water through the discharge tube. It takes
into consideration bends in the tube, friction, and the vertical rise from the
sump pit.
Brand selection is another important decision you need to make. Storm
Pro, Zoeller, Liberty, and Flow Tech are among the top manufacturers making
submersible pumps. Wayne and Little
Giant are two of the most respected pedestal pump manufacturers. As you
evaluate the various models a company is offering, only consider units that
pump out a number of gallons per minute
at a given dynamic head that is equal to or somewhat greater than your basement's
system capacity.
For complete protection, you must purchase a backup sump pump as well.
The backup sump pump will remove water during
times when the main pump fails due to power outage or other problem. There
are two types of battery powered backup pumps. Type one is a rechargeable
battery operated pump that will give you an additional eight or more hours of pumping after the
electricity goes out. Type 2 is a rechargeable battery that will supply power to
the main pump if there is an electrical outage. The type 2 pump is of no use
when the main pump fails for other than power outage reasons. The other type of
pump is water powered and works for many hours after the electricity goes down.
Our
plumbing staff will go over the possibilities with you and help you make a
decision you are satisfied with. You can buy your back up pump as part of the
main pump or separately.
Our
staff will help you thoroughly investigate all the possibilities and purchase
the sump pump and backup unit that you are pleased with.
For experienced Baltimore area sump pump installation and repair, contact 1st Choice Plumbing of Baltimore; 3502 Clarks Lane; Baltimore, Md. 21215, 410-967-6547
