Sump Pump Buyers Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Sump Pump Buyers Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Looking to buy a Sump Pump for sump, pit, and tank emptying, but not sure what you are searching for? Look no further! Here is our ultimate guide to sump emptying pumps to help you make the right choice, whether it's an automatic sump pump, portable sump pump, or an electric sump pump. Let’s start with the basics.

What is a sump pump?

Water Sump pumps are a type of submersible pump used to efficiently empty an area that fills up with excess rainwater, effluent, wastewater, or other unwanted fluids. Based on the type of fluid you are pumping you may need a dirty water sump pumps or clean water sump pump depending on the presence of debris in the liquid.

 

What is a sump pump used for?

Sump pumps are used in many industries, including industrial plants, construction sites, mines, power plants, transportation facilities, agricultural business (for irrigation and waterlogged fields), or anywhere that water can collect, including residential properties in basements when flooding arises. Portable sump pumps are especially useful for these types of situations. They can be used for applications such as silage clamp effluent, industrial water processing, moving collected rainwater, or transporting water stored ready for treatment and recycling. Due to their widespread use in many applications, understanding how water sump pumps work can be very handy.

 

 

 

How does a sump emptying pump work?

The sump pump needs to be placed in a pit, known as the basin, that is lower than the floor level. It then automatically pumps excess water out of the area using a discharge line called an effluent, which leads to the designated drainage area.

What is a sump pump float switch?

Sump pumps use a float switch to detect water levels in the basin. When the switch is activated by the risen water or effluent level, the pump turns on and directs the water away from the area, through the discharge line using a pump check valve. It will then stop operating once the fluid level has returned to an acceptable level. But what does the check valve do?

What is a sump pump check valve?

Another important part of a water sump pump is the check valve, which is a one-way valve that is placed within the discharge line that is leading the water away from the area. The one-way valve only allows water to flow in one direction, to ensure that the water does not flow back into the sump pit, even when the sump pump is switched off.

Can a sump pump run continuously?

Most sump pumps should not be left to run continuously in case it starts dry running, as this can cause sump pump failure without water present. Constant running can cause switch issues, engine braking, or overheating. Some automatic sump pumps have dry run protection which means they will automatically turn off when there is no water to run through the pump.

Can a sump pump get clogged?

A sump pump can get clogged over time with usage, depending on what is in the fluid that is being pumped, especially if it is a dirty water sump pump. The best way to unclog it is to start by removing it from the system and out of the basin. Both ends of the discharge lines then should be checked to see if any debris is stuck inside, preventing water from moving through the system. Once removed and unclogged the sump pump can be installed back into the pump system in the basin.

What is the best water sump pump?

We supply a variety of sump pumps, from brands such as Ebara, Lowara and DAB. We can also supply optional float switches to allow for the automated operation of the sump emptying pump based on the water level, and different models depending upon what fluid is being emptied, for example if it is clean water or effluent with solids, which requires a dirty water sump pump. Our sump pumps come in many different size and power levels dependent on the application you require it for. If you need help choosing your sump pump, contact our knowledgeable team on 01777 279551.

You can view our full range of sump emptying pumps here.