What Does Sump Pit Mean in Construction?

What Does Sump Pit Mean in Construction?

A sump pit is a temporary hole constructed to collect and filter additional water for pumping into the desired drainage area.

It is commonly used in houses to remove excess water from a specific area, such as a basement or crawlspace. The sump pit is also known as a sump basin, sump well, or sump hole].

The purpose of this practice is to improve the quality of the water by removing excessive water in a manner that improves the quality of the water.

The sump pit typically consists of a perforated vertical standpipe placed in the center of the pit to collect filtered water.

In order to prolong its life, it is important to remove grass clippings and leaves from the surface of the aggregate surrounding the pit.

The pit should be checked after every major storm to evaluate its effectiveness and if necessary rehabilitated or replaced.

Sump Pump Vs Sump Pit

A sump pit is a hole with a gravel base dug into the lowest part of your basement or crawl space. As water enters the pit, an activator or sensor on the sump pump turns the sump pump on automatically. It moves the water away from the home through pipes.

The main difference between a sump pit and a sump pump is that the sump pit is the water collection hole in your basement or crawlspace, while a sump pump removes water from it.

A sump pump sits in what is called a sump basin, which is typically located in your basement or crawlspace.

Sump pumps help prevent flooding by transferring water from a basement or crawlspace to another location, away from your house. There are two types of sump pumps: submersible pumps and pedestal pumps.

It is recommended that if you live in an area especially where it rains or snows a lot, you fit a sump pit. And if you have a sump pit, you really should have a sump pump.

Although you might be able to get a professional to help you empty your sump pit, it’s much safer and more effective to use a specially fitted pump. Some people like to have a second backup sump pump in case there is an issue with the first one.

Sump Pump Installation

A sump pump is installed in a basin, or sump pit, located at the lowest spot in the basement floor or where water first accumulates.

To install a sump pump, you need to select a location and prepare the site by digging a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the sump pump.

The top edge of the sump pump should ultimately sit flush with floor level. The most effective sump pumps typically feature weep holes, which allow water to enter from the sides and from beneath.

If yours doesn’t have these important perforations, take the time to drill them yourself.

Next, wrap a layer of filter fabric around the basin exterior to prevent silt and sludge from clogging the basin.

Add 2 or 3 inches of gravel to the bottom of the hole you created, then place a paver or fieldstone over those pebbles in order to establish a stable platform.

Now place the sump pump into the hole, backfilling around its perimeter with excavated dirt.

Once installed, you can route pipe outdoors so that water flows away from your house. If necessary, install a dry well outside to handle discharge from your sump pit.

A dry well is a deep pit filled with gravel which allows water to gradually be absorbed into surrounding soil.

Sump pump installation generally requires professional help.

However, if you want to do it yourself follow these steps: position and outline basin; cut hole in basement floor; dig 3-foot hole; wrap with filter fabric; add gravel; position and level basin; connect PVC discharge pipe; install check valve; fill in around basin with concrete mix.

Sump Pump Maintenance

Sump pumps are essential for preventing basement flooding. Sump pump maintenance should be performed at least once a year, and more frequently if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow. Quarterly maintenance is recommended.

The following sump pump inspection and maintenance steps are important:

·         clear the sump basin of debris

·         remove the pump and thoroughly check for corrosion or other damage

·         clean the pump inlet screen

·         deep clean your sump pump as needed and clean the sump pit regularly

·         make sure that the equipment is properly covered.

To clean a sump pump, start by unplugging it from the power supply. Never clean a sump pump while it is still plugged in since this can be very dangerous.

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the sump pump and remove any grime. If there is a lot of buildup that needs to be removed, you can also spray the pump with a garden hose or use a diluted vinegar solution. While cleaning the pump, examine it closely for corrosion or other damage.

To deep clean your sump pump and pit, turn off the sump pump and make sure that no one is using any appliances that will drain water into the pit (e.g., washing machine).

Use a garden hose to rinse the pump. Then use a plastic scraper or putty knife to remove caked debris. Use a wet vac to clean out the pit. Once dry, reattach it to the discharge pipe and plug it into its power source.

Quarterly maintenance tasks include;

·         unplugging the pump and emptying its basin of any standing water

·         removing any debris from its basin

·         making sure its inlet screen is clear and not obstructed

·         pouring five gallons of water into its basin to verify that its float switch turns on/off properly

·         checking if it disposes of washing machine water (if applicable)

·         cleaning its screen/inlet opening every three to four months if necessary.

Annual maintenance includes all quarterly tasks plus checking if there are signs of wear on parts such as impellers, bearings, switches etc.; testing backup systems (if applicable); replacing batteries in backup systems (if applicable).