There are many sump pump alternatives that you can try out, depending on the application. You first need to consider the environmental conditions to determine the best option. There are both active and passive solutions that you can use to remove water from the area or prevent water from entering the basement. Let’s find out more about these options and how they remove water.
Alternatives for Sump Pump
Here are some of the best alternatives for sump pumps that you can use at home to prevent water from flooding your basement. Each method has a different water removal mechanism based on its nature.
French Drains
French drains are a passive method that transmits water from your home to a suitable discharge point. Both interior and exterior French drains are commonly used in most houses to reduce the amount of water entering the basement. Although it decreases the water levels, it does not completely eliminate all the water. Areas with a high water flow will still need at least a portable sump pump to remove the water to prevent water from pooling inside the basement.
Portable Utility Pumps
If your area is affected by heavy rains only at certain times of the year, you may not want to install a sump pump. Instead, you can use a portable utility pump which is a cost-effective option. Although these are not as powerful as a sump pump, they will get the job done in removing water. So, a portable pump is a practical alternative that you can use to overcome the occasional risks of flooding. Since portable utility pumps are not made to constant exposure to harsh environmental conditions, make sure to bring them in after use. Floor sucker sump pumps are another type that you can use to remove water from a surface. The main difference is that this is a sump pump without pit.
Waterproofing the Walls
Proper waterproofing of the walls can keep away from seeping into the house. This is an easy alternative method to prevent water in the basement. Identify the spots through which water leaks and seal the area with a suitable waterproof caulk. Cover all the cracks you identify and seal them well. With this easy option, you don’t need to use a sump pump since water will not penetrate into the basement.
Installing Gutters
Although gutters cannot remove water from your basement, they can prevent water from entering it. Install gutters in such a way as to direct the rainwater away from your house. If you already have gutters, you can improve the system by cleaning them to remove any dry leaves or debris from blocking the path. Make it a part of your house maintenance schedule to clean them. Repair any damaged areas to get the best out of your gutters.
Grading the ground
Grading the ground is another effective way to force water out of your home to a distant area. This includes angling the ground so that the region closest to the house is higher than the rest. Through this, water falling near the house will quickly flow down the slope to a distant area. Check the ground around the foundation and make the slope at least 30 degrees downwards away from the home. This will drain out the water and prevent it from penetrating into the soil as groundwater. Less concentration in groundwater implies there will be less water trying to seep into the basement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Alternative to a Sump Pump?
There are numerous other options for water removal that you can try in addition to a sump pump. You can use water removal mechanisms such as French drains, trenches, and sloping the land to direct water away from the house. If there is water already in the basement, you can try different portable pumps to remove it. Using sealants and waterproofing mechanisms is another way to minimize water seepage.
Is a French Drain Better Than a Sump Pump?
The two options serve two different purposes in removing water. A French drain removes water passively as it will provide a path to direct water to a discharge point. But a sump pump actively pumps out water from one place to another. So, a sump pump might be more engaged in the task than a French drain.
Should I Avoid Buying a House With a Sump Pump?
A house with a sump pump is a better choice as you don’t need to install one yourself. This will save you a lot of money spent on the process of installing a sump pump. It is a good method to prevent flooding in a home and eliminate moisture. Having a proper drainage system in the house increases the value of a house.
Can You Get Rid of a Sump Pump?
It is possible to get rid of the pump if it is not needed. There are many houses with a similar setup with a sump pit without pump. Try suitable alternative methods to remove water away from the house.
What’s the Difference Between a Utility Pump and a Sump Pump?
The main difference between these two pumps is the applications for which they are used. Water pumps or utility pumps are used for various tasks. They are used to empty clogged sinks, remove water from a confined space, and drain rain from window wells. A utility pump can generally remove standing water from a flooded basement or yard. But a sump pump is used to remove water collected in the basement of a house. They are usually installed in one place for a specific task.
Conclusion
It is difficult to rely on these sump pump alternatives if only one of them is used. They will not act efficiently as having a primary pump with a suitable backup sump pump to prevent flooding. However, you can contact a professional to help you decide the best alternative for your home. Whichever method you use, make sure to maintain it properly to increase the efficiency of water removal.
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