How a Sump Pump System Works – Complete Guide
1. The Sump Pit: Your First Line of Defense
The sump pit (also called a sump basin) is installed at the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. It’s designed to collect groundwater or runoff from a drain tile system before it causes damage.
Why it matters: Without a properly sized and installed pit, even the best pump can’t do its job. At DESKA, we ensure every system starts with a durable and efficient foundation.
2. The Primary Sump Pump: Your Workhorse
The primary sump pump is the core of your system. It sits inside the pit and activates when water reaches a certain level, pumping it safely away from your home through a discharge line.
There are two main styles:
- Submersible Pumps: Installed underwater in the pit, quieter and more powerful.
- Pedestal Pumps: Mounted above the pit, easier to maintain but louder and typically less efficient.
Tip for Alexandria homeowners: High water tables in our area make reliable sump pumps essential year-round—not just during storms.
3. Battery Backup Systems: Protection During Power Outages
A battery backup sump pump kicks in when your main pump can’t. Whether the power goes out or your primary pump fails, a battery backup system ensures water is still being pumped away from your basement.
At DESKA, we install backup systems that can run for hours or even days, depending on usage. This is especially critical in Alexandria, where storms and outages often occur simultaneously.
Bottom line: A backup pump isn’t a luxury—it’s insurance against costly water damage.
4. Sump Pump Monitoring Systems: Stay Informed, Even When You're Away
Smart technology now allows homeowners to monitor their sump pump systems in real time.
These monitoring systems can:
- Send alerts to your phone if your pump fails or the pit fills too high
- Notify you during power loss or battery issues
- Help you keep tabs on your system from anywhere
Whether you’re commuting to D.C. or traveling, you can stay informed and take action before a small issue becomes a major flood.
5. The Discharge Line and Check Valve: Getting Water Out, and Keeping It Out
The discharge line carries water from the pump safely away from your home. A check valve on this line keeps water from flowing back into the pit after it’s been pumped out.
Without it, your pump works harder than necessary, reducing its lifespan and increasing the risk of failure.
At DESKA, we make sure your system includes the right valves, piping, and routing for long-term performance—no shortcuts.
Why a Complete System Matters
Every part of your sump pump setup plays a role in keeping your basement dry. A missing or failing component—like a dead battery or a broken float switch—can lead to flooding when you least expect it.
That’s why we design and install complete basement waterproofing systems that include:
- High-performance primary pumps
- Reliable battery backup solutions
- Smart monitoring technology
- Proper discharge routing and check valves
Serving Alexandria with Integrity & Expertise
DESKA has years of experience protecting homes throughout Alexandria, Arlington, and Northern Virginia. Whether you’re upgrading an older pump or need a full system installed, we’ll help you choose the right components for your home and budget.
Call our team at 703-665-1456 or click the button below to schedule a free estimate.