What Is a Sump Pump and How Does It Work?
Water in your basement or crawl space isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a major threat to your home’s structural integrity and indoor air quality. That’s where sump pumps come in.
At Perma Jack of St. Louis, we believe homeowners deserve to understand the tools that protect their homes from flooding and water damage. In this article, we break down what a sump pump is, how it works, how it fits into a complete waterproofing system, and why it’s essential for homes across Missouri and Illinois.
What Is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a mechanical device installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space typically in a pit or basin called a sump pit. Its job is simple but critical: remove water that collects in the sump pit and direct it away from the home.
Without a sump pump, groundwater or floodwater can seep through foundation walls, rise up through cracks in the slab, and wreak havoc on your home’s structure and belongings.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Sump pumps automatically turn on when water in the pit reaches a certain level. Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown of how they operate:
- Water Collection: Drainage systems around your foundation (like interior drain tiles or exterior French drains) direct water toward the sump pit.
- Float Switch Activation: When water in the pit rises high enough, it triggers a float switch that activates the pump.
- Pump Operation: The pump turns on and uses a motor to push water up through a discharge pipe.
- Water Discharge: Water is carried safely away from your home’s foundation to a drainage area or storm sewer.
Some systems include check valves to prevent water from flowing back into the pit after being pumped out.
How Sump Pumps Fit Into a Basement Waterproofing System
Sump pumps aren’t standalone solutions they’re the heart of a complete basement or crawl space waterproofing system.
At Perma Jack, we pair sump pumps with:
- Interior drain tile systems to capture water at the footing level
- Exterior waterproofing membranes to seal walls from the outside
- Sump basins with airtight lids to reduce humidity and radon entry
- Battery backup systems to keep pumps running during power outages
- Dehumidifiers to control moisture and improve air quality
This multi-layered approach ensures your home stays dry even during the heaviest storms or wettest seasons.
Do You Need a Battery Backup System?
Yes—especially in storm-prone areas like the Midwest. Power outages and flooding often go hand in hand, making a battery backup sump pump system essential.
A battery backup will:
- Automatically kick in if your primary pump fails or the power goes out
- Pump thousands of gallons of water on a single charge
- Sound an alarm to alert you of a failure or switch
Many modern systems also offer Wi-Fi monitoring and smartphone alerts so you always know the status of your system.
What Areas of the Home Benefit?
While basements are the most common location for sump pumps, they are also vital for:
- Crawl spaces with high humidity or standing water
- Homes on a slope or low point in the yard
- Properties with a history of flooding or seepage
- Finished basements, where damage could cost thousands to repair
If your home sits on expansive clay soils, which are common in St. Louis and Southern Illinois, hydrostatic pressure can push water through the foundation even without visible cracks.
Signs You May Need a Sump Pump
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to schedule a sump pump inspection:
- Musty or moldy smell in basement or crawl space
- Pooled water or damp concrete
- White chalky residue on walls (efflorescence)
- Rust on appliances or metal posts
- Water-damaged belongings or wood rot
Trust Perma Jack of St. Louis for Sump Pump Installation
Our team of experts at Perma Jack has been protecting homes in the Greater St. Louis area for over 40 years. We custom-design waterproofing systems to fit your home’s unique needs including high-quality sump pumps with reliable performance and long-term warranties.
Whether you’re experiencing water problems now or want to prevent future issues, we’re here to help.
Schedule Your Free Waterproofing Evaluation Today
Don’t wait for water damage to strike. Contact Perma Jack of St. Louis today to schedule a free evaluation and get a sump pump system that keeps your basement or crawl space dry year-round.