A sump drain, or more accurately, a sump pump system, works by collecting excess water in a designated pit and automatically pumping it away from your basement or home's foundation.
Understanding the Sump Pump System
The primary function is to manage water that might otherwise cause flooding or dampness in a basement. This system is particularly useful in areas prone to high water tables or significant rainfall.
Here's a breakdown of how the process unfolds, based on its core components:
The Basin (Sump Pit)
The process begins with the basin, typically an 18-inch diameter pit. This pit is excavated into the lowest point of your basement floor or crawl space. Its purpose is to serve as a collection point for water draining from foundation drains, ground water, or other sources.
Water Collection and Rising Level
As water accumulates from surrounding areas, it flows into this sump pit. The level of water in the basin gradually rises.
The Float Switch Activation
Attached to the sump pump is a float switch. This switch operates much like the float in a toilet tank. When the water level in the basin rises to a predetermined height, the float lifts the switch, which actuates the pump.
The Pump Action
Once the float switch activates, the pump turns on. This pump is usually a submersible electric pump located inside the basin. It draws the water from the pit into its intake.
Water Discharge
With the pump running, the collected water is pushed out of the basin and into the sump pump drain line. This line, typically constructed from 1 1/4-inch or 1 1/2-inch PVC pipe for its indoor span, carries the water away from the house. The drain line usually directs the water to a safe discharge point outdoors, such as a storm drain, a well-drained area, or a municipal sewer system (where permitted).
The pump continues to run until the water level in the basin drops low enough for the float switch to disengage, turning the pump off. This cycle repeats as needed to keep the basement dry.
Key Components at a Glance
| Component | Description | Role in System |
|---|---|---|
| Basin | An excavated pit (often 18-inch diameter) in the floor. | Collects incoming water. |
| Float Switch | A mechanism that floats on the water surface. | Detects water level and triggers the pump. |
| Pump | A submersible electric pump placed in the basin. | Moves water out of the basin. |
| Drain Line | PVC pipe (typically 1 1/4-inch or 1 1/2-inch indoors). | Transports water away from the house. |
This automated process ensures that water is managed proactively, preventing potential water damage and maintaining a dry environment.
