Crawl Space and Basement Sump Pump System

All dirt and vented crawl spaces can benefit from encapsulation with the CleanSpace System, but if there is an existing water problem it needs to be addressed before the crawl space can be sealed. Basement Systems has developed a sump system designed specifically for crawl spaces. Foundation Support Works of Western Colorado is an authorized Basement Systems dealer offering the SmartSump crawl space sump pump system.

Choosing the right sump can keep the space beneath your home free of water. Basement Systems developed the SmartSump with a high quality, 1/3rd horsepower Zoeller sump pump. But the pump itself is only one element of this carefully designed system.

Quality Sump Liner

Standard sump pumps in a dirt lined hole are apt to get clogged. The remedy for this is a sump liner, but only one that is the right size for the pump. A liner that is too small, for example, could cause a pump to "short cycle" or turn on and off quickly because there is too little water for it to pump. A well-built liner that is the right size for the pump is the best solution.

Sturdy Pump Stand

A sturdy pump stand will keep the pump elevated and out of silt or debris. This not only prevents clogging or damage to the pump, but also helps keep the check valve clear so pumping capacity won't be reduced over time by buildup in the discharge pipe.

Air-Tight Sump Lid and Floor Drain

Since one of the main purposes of encapsulating your crawl space is to isolate it from the moisture below, an open sump basin would be counterproductive. Without this lid, water would evaporate into the air, cause the dehumidifier to work harder, and have the potential to cause damage. An air-tight lid not only solves this problem, but it stops things from falling into and clogging the pump. Additionally, the SmartSump and SmartDrain lids are designed with an air-tight valve so that potential plumbing from above will be drained away, and a WaterWatch Alarm will you alert you to the problem.

Sump Pump Battery Back-up

During heavy rainstorms is when you're most vulnerable for the power to go out. In order to keep the basement dry all the time, a battery back up is necessary. Consider these potential situations:

• The power going out one day - which usually happens in a
  big storm with rain

• The pump coming unplugged

• The circuit breaker tripping

• The primary pump failing

• The primary pump not being able to keep up with the amount of water in a very heavy rain
  

Beware of "Lifetime Warranty"

Pump manufacturers do not offer lifetime warranties. There are contractors who advertise "Lifetime Warranty!" or "Free Pump replacements forever!". By the time you'll get that free replacement is when you'll have a crawl space full of water and your belongings ruined.

With quality and reliable equipment, you can have the peace of mind that your crawl space will remain dry and healthy. You won't be the one telling the horror stories of the swimming pool in your crawl space. For a free crawl space sump pump installation estimate, contact us today.