5 Reasons You Need a Crawl Space Sump Pump

A homeowner who owns a house with a crawl space should always consider the possibility of floods and water damage. While sump pumps in basements have become the norm, we often overlook the importance of having one in our crawl spaces.
Having a sump pump in your crawl space is not just a luxury but a necessity, especially considering the amount of groundwater and moisture that can seep in from various sources.

Why Do Crawl Spaces Get Wet?

Before we talk about sump pumps, let’s review why your crawl space often gets flooded or just damp.

Outside soil can also get saturated with water and leak into the crawl space. This often happens during heavy rains and it can be a burden to the foundation. 

Another reason why a dirt crawl space can become flooded is a faulty drainage system. If there is a leakage in the drainage system, water can collect under your home and you will notice standing water in your crawl space. 

Cracks in the foundation are one of the most serious problems a homeowner can face. A wet crawl space can be a sign that water is accumulating through the cracks in the foundation. 

All of these problems can escalate during a rainy season, as well as during the time of the year when large amounts of snow are melting. It’s important to inspect your crawl space regularly, but especially during the season when it’s most likely to get wet. 

Reason 1: Crawl Spaces Are Wet

Like mentioned, one of the primary ways moisture enters the crawl space is through the soil beneath it. As the ground becomes saturated with water from rain or snowmelt, hydrostatic pressure forces this groundwater upwards, seeking the path of least resistance, which often leads to your crawl space.

Water can also enter through open vents, which were originally designed to promote air circulation, but we now know only serve to allow water and humidity in, trapping it there.

Potential plumbing leaks add to the crawl space’s moisture woes. A leaking pipe or faulty plumbing fixture can introduce significant amounts of water into the crawl space environment, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold and other issues.

Reason 2: Structural Stability

The consequences of not promptly removing water from your crawl space can be severe. Let untreated mold and mildew thrives, which, over time, can result in wood rot. This may not be immediately apparent, but the slow deterioration of essential structural elements that support the weight of your home can gradually compromise its foundation. Once the damage is done, these issues can escalate, leading to potential structural instability and posing risks to the overall integrity of your home.

Reason 3: Your Health

Mold spores don’t confine themselves to the crawl space. Thanks to the stack effect, where air moves from lower to higher pressure areas, these harmful spores can travel throughout your home, potentially causing respiratory issues and allergies, especially in those vulnerable— like children and the elderly. Keeping your crawl space dry with a sump pump helps prevent the spread of mold and keeps your indoor air quality in check.

Reason 4: Musty Smells

The presence of mold and mildew due to lingering water can release unpleasant and musty odors that permeate your living spaces. Addressing the musty smell isn’t about air fresheners or temporary fixes; it’s about delving deeper into the root cause. These odors are a red flag, alerting you to the presence of excess moisture in your crawl space. Ignoring the issue could lead to more significant problems down the road.

Reason 5: Home Value

Whether you have plans to sell your home or not, a wet crawl space is a major red flag for potential buyers. It not only creates a negative impression but also decreases your home’s value. By investing in a reliable sump pump, you ensure that your crawl space stays dry and protected, preserving your home’s worth and appeal.

How Does a Crawl Space Sump Pump Work?

A crawl space sump pump acts as the vigilant guardian of your home, tirelessly working to keep excess water at bay.

Here’s how the system operates to protect your crawl space and ultimately your entire home:

1. Water Collection: Crawl space sump pumps are strategically placed within a sump pit or basin, positioned at the lowest point in your crawl space where water tends to accumulate. This basin acts as a reservoir, collecting any water that seeps in from the soil, through vents, or from plumbing leaks.
2. Activation Mechanism: At the heart of the sump pump lies a crucial component known as the float switch. The float switch is designed to detect changes in water level. As the water rises in the sump pit, the float switch is triggered, signaling the sump pump to kick into action.
3. Pumping Action: Once activated, the sump pump’s powerful motor starts churning. Its impeller draws water into the pump and expelling it through a discharge pipe. This discharge pipe leads the water away from your home’s foundation, directing it to a safe location.

Choosing a high-quality, reliable sump pump is crucial, as not all pumps are equal. Innovative Basement Authority offers a selection of the best pumps on the market.

With our expertise and experience in serving homeowners throughout the Dakotas, Minnesota, eastern Montana, and western Wisconsin for over 15 years, you can trust us to provide you with the ultimate peace of mind.

Innovative Basement Authority Crawl Space Sump Pumps Keep Your Space Dry

At Innovative Basement Authority, we understand the significance of investing in a top-notch sump pump that can truly stand the test of time.

Our sump pumps offer exceptional features and benefits:

• Powerful Performance: Designed to be robust and efficient, our sump pumps can pump out thousands of gallons of water per hour while operating with minimal noise. You can count on their reliability when it matters most.
• Float Switch Reliability: We understand the critical role of the float switch in sump pumps. To prevent any issues, our pumps are specially engineered to limit vibrations, ensuring that the switch operates smoothly without colliding with the liner and getting stuck.
• Seamless Adaptability: Our sump pumps seamlessly integrate with our encapsulation suite of products, including the CrawlDrain and dehumidifier. This comprehensive system ensures that water is efficiently and effectively removed from your crawl space, creating a dry and protected environment for your home. With this combination, you can enjoy complete peace of mind, knowing your crawl space is in excellent hands.

Our team at IBA understands the importance of a comfortable and healthy living environment. We’re here to guide you through the process of selecting the right sump pump for your crawl space and providing expert solutions tailored to your specific needs.

With our commitment to excellence and years of experience in serving homeowners just like you, Innovative Basement Authority is dedicated to restoring the peace and serenity of your home.

Say goodbye to a wet crawl space and hello to a fresh and inviting living space with our top-of-the-line sump pump solutions. Schedule your free inspection today.