-
Sewage + Pump = SUMP
In case you are wondering what a sump is…Sewage pumps, or “sump pumps” as they are commonly called, are used to help move water from under our houses and down grade. There are three common purposes of these electrical pumps: To move grounds water, gray water and black water. The one pictured is a grounds water pump I came across at a recent inspection installed in the crawlspace. It was placed in a perforated, plastic bucket below grade that was surrounded by drainage rock. This hold container is called the crock and
was installed at the lowest point in the crawlspace to deal with ground waters that collect. As water pools in the crawlspace the float rises and triggers the pump. The water is pumped from the crock to the drain system shared by the gutters. You can see the corrugated drain pipe on the right.
Gray water is dirty water from sinks, washing machines, and dishwashers. These sump pumps move water into the main sewer line. If you add toilet sewage to the mix you get a fitting title of “black” water. These are installed when gravity is inadequate to get the waste water to the sewer line. A true sewage pump is usually sealed under a secured lid (see picture to the right). I recommend these be inspected and serviced regularly by a plumber.Sump pumps should be powered by an GFCI-protected outlet in the crawlspace. Sometimes pump alarms are installed to signal if the pump is not operating. Be sure to check your pump’s operation at least every year. If you are unsure if you have a sump pump, check your home inspection report – I always note their presence. Or you may give me a call and I can help you figure it out!
