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Do I Really Need a Crawl Space Sump Pump?

crew installing crawl space sump pump

As an Indiana homeowner, you’re no stranger to our state’s wet weather and flooding risks. How prepared are you for these natural events? Is your home protected?

When water threatens your crawl space, a crawl space sump pump can be your saving grace against destructive floodwaters.

If you have wondered, “Do crawl spaces need sump pumps?” you’ve come to the right place. This article will enlighten you on the benefits of crawl space sump pump installation and how to protect your home with proper crawl space repair and encapsulation solutions.

Should I Get a Sump Pump for Crawl Space Areas?

It depends on your home’s unique situation. Some factors that impact the need for crawl space sump pump installation include:

  • Location
  • Proximity to bodies of water (rivers, streams, etc.)
  • High water table
  • History of water intrusion or flooding

It’s always best to err on the side of caution. As the old saying goes, “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” We advise you to get a crawl space sump pump if flooding is more of a threat than just a seasonal issue.

leaking pipes and rotting wood in a crawl space

However, flooding isn’t the only threat to your crawl space. A leaking or burst pipe can release water and inundate this space. Without a sump pump, water will keep rising and damage the crawl space.

If crawl space moisture is a threat but flooding isn’t, this moisture will likely continue to build, followed by condensation. In this case, a dehumidifier is more appropriate for reducing moisture levels and averting moisture-related problems like dampness, mold, and wood rot.

Still not sure? Talk to your local crawl space experts at Indiana Foundation Service. We’ll evaluate your crawl space and home and advise you if a crawl space sump pump is a necessary addition.

Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation Benefits

A sump pump for crawl space areas does more than actively remove leaking water; it offers a wealth of other benefits.

Your home’s plumbing, electrical, and ductwork systems typically run through the crawl space. Plus, beams and joists support the home above. All these essential systems must be protected from moisture and floodwaters. Installing a sump pump ensures water doesn’t rise high enough and soak them. So, they’ll stay dry and function normally.

Safety is another concern. Floodwater doesn’t just cause wood rot, which weakens the underlying structures, but it also poses the risk of electrocution. Someone could get seriously hurt if exposed electrical wires come into contact with floodwater.

A crawl space sump pump installation also shows your insurer you have taken the necessary steps to protect your home from flooding. They might waive your premiums and process your compensation claims faster than someone who hasn’t taken any steps to protect their home.

Sump Pump Crawl Space Considerations

Crawl space sump pumps are available in a variety of models based on individual needs. When considering what sump pump for crawl space areas might be the best fit, keep the following factors in mind:

sump pump installed in a crawl space
  • Size: It’s important to size your crawl space sump pump appropriately. Most sump pumps come in ½ and ⅓ horsepower. It’s not sensible to buy a larger pump when you’re moving a small volume of water. The pump will cycle on and off, reducing its lifespan.
  • Power: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper power. Typical pumps have a 20-amp GFCI-protected circuit. Ensure you adhere to local and state regulations on electrical code.
  • Float and Switch Design: Most pumps come with float-type switches that activate the motor when water reaches a certain level. We recommend a sump pump with a column-type float, as they won’t malfunction easily.
dehumidifier and sump pump with a backup battery installed in an encapsulated crawl space
  • Motor Housing: Avoid sump pumps with plastic motor housings, which don’t respond properly to heat. If they run for long periods, they can create tolerance that might burn the motor’s bearings. A unit with cast iron casing is the best option.
  • Clog-proof: Silt and debris can collect on the impeller parts when the sump pump runs, which might slow down the pump. To prevent clogging, buy a pump with a plastic sump liner and a cover. Make sure the impeller doesn’t allow silt or debris to get in.
  • Backup Pump: The best advice we can give you is to have an extra pump handy. It could mean the difference between a flooded crawl space and a dry one during severe floods. Typical sump pumps won’t function during power outages, but you can rest assured your crawl space will be protected by a properly functioning backup pump.

Opt for Professional Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation

Indiana Foundation Service inspector in a crawl space

As you can see, the answer to the “Do crawl spaces need sump pumps?” question is a resounding yes! However, you shouldn’t buy the first sump pump that you see in a hardware store and install it yourself. This can be costly and dangerous, so it’s best to leave crawl space sump pump installation to the pros.

Indiana Foundation Service has more than 30 years of experience with crawl space inspections and sump pump installations. We’ll recommend the appropriate crawl space sump pump for your home and return for annual maintenance check-ups to ensure its continued operation. Contact us today to schedule a free crawl space inspection and learn more about your sump pump and encapsulation options!

Crawl Space Sump Pump FAQs

A sump pump is part of our comprehensive crawl space repair and encapsulation strategy. This includes drainage and drainage matting, insulation panels, sealed vents and doors, encapsulation with a vapor barrier, and a dehumidifier. Contact Indiana Foundation Service for more information and to schedule a free crawl space inspection. 

The sump pump installation cost depends on the crawl space size, the repair scope, and customization. You will receive a no-obligation estimate with an accurate price breakdown after a free crawl space inspection from an Indiana Foundation Service expert. We also offer various flexible financing options.

Indiana Foundation Service installs a range of crawl space sump pump systems designed to meet diverse needs. Our systems include submersible sump pumps with varying pumping capacities and models equipped with battery backups. Contact us to schedule a free crawl space inspection and discover which system is best for your home.

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Holly Richards-Purpura

Holly Richards-Purpura

Content Writer

Holly is a Content Writer for Groundworks who has written and edited web content for the foundation services industry for 10 years. With a background in journalism, her passion for the written word runs deep. Holly lives in Columbus, OH, with her husband. Along with educating homeowners, she also has a big heart for the Big Apple.

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