Do I Really Need a 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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!