If water collects in your cellar whenever it rains, you almost certainly curently have a sump pump. But did you know that most homes – if you don’t have a more recently built home in a dry climate – will eventually get excessive water in the basement?

Don’t defer the unavoidable. A sump pump is inexpensive\cheap insurance against costly flood that will happen eventually.

The pump waits quietly in your cellar. Then, when it rains and excessive water gathers in the sump pit, it automatically pumps that water out-of-doors.

But there are 3 essential rules you should know about your sump pump. If you neglect them, it could wind up being too costly.

Sump Pump Size Matters

First, size matters. And by size, I mean power. With regards to the size of your property, the depth of your basement and what lengths you may need to pump the excessive water, you will need the 1/3, 1/2 or 3/4 horse power pump.

For example, if your discharge configuration consists of a 7′ – 10′ vertical lift from the sump pump, a 90 degree elbow and a horizontal pipe run of anywhere between three and 25 ft, a 1/3 horse power pump will likely be sufficient for your needs.

“Determining the right size pump can be challenging. It’s best left to a professional.”

Maybe you’re considering, “Why not merely get the biggest pump I can find?” First, a “too large” sump pump can discharge flood too fast resulting in frequent cycling which causes early motor failure. Plus, buying more pump than you will need is just wasting money.Determining the right size pump can be challenging. It’s best left to a professional.

Sump Pump Core

Next, make sure your sump pump motor core is made of cast iron. Some cheap pumps have plastic cores. But these sump pumps often fail early on because they don’t disperse high temperature as easily as iron.

Sump Pump Debris Screen

Finally, make certain to get a sump pump with a built-in intake rubble screen. This helps prevent any particles that collects in the sump pit from engaging in the impeller and damaging the pump.

If you follow these 3 vital things you should know about your sump pump, you’ll be on the way to a dry cellar. But don’t wait too long. Spring rains will be here soon.

Here’s more info about how to choose the perfect sump pump.