Sump pumps are an invaluable type of plumbing installation for homes that suffer from issues with water in the basement or crawlspace. A sump pump automatically takes care of the excess water: the water gathers in an excavated area (this is what is properly called the sump) and the pump activates when the water goes above a certain level, removing it. Sump pumps are extremely helpful in case of flooding and homes that have a high water table allowing water to seep into the lower parts of the structure.

Key Takeaways

• Pedestal sump pumps offer a longer lifespan and are easier to maintain but are noisier and consume more energy.
• Submersible sump pumps operate quietly and more efficiently but have a shorter lifespan and are more expensive to install and service.
• The best sump pump for your home depends on your needs, including water volume, flood risk, and your tolerance for noise.
• Professional installation and regular maintenance are key to ensuring that your sump pump operates effectively for years to come.

Sump pumps don’t come in a one-size-fits-all-homes model. You must have a professional plumber help you select the right sump pump and install it. There are two very broad categories that the plumber will pick from:

Pedestal sump pump

This type of sump pump sits on a stand (the pedestal of the name) located over the sump. A pipe runs down from the pump and into the water, and the impeller motors of the pump draw the water up from the pit, and then pushes the water out into the standard wastewater system or a well. Because the pump is removed from the water, it doesn’t suffer extensive wear and tear and is easy to maintain and service. However, it does require more energy to run than the other type of sump pump.

Advantages:

• Easy Access for Maintenance and Repairs: One of the biggest advantages of pedestal pumps is that their motors are not submerged in water, making them much easier to access for repairs or maintenance. If you ever need to replace parts or service the unit, you won’t have to deal with pulling it out of the sump pit, reducing labor costs and effort.
• Longer Lifespan Due to Less Wear: Because the motor remains above water, it is less exposed to moisture and corrosion, resulting in a longer operational life. Pedestal sump pumps can last 25 to 30 years with proper care, compared to the 10-15 years of submersible pumps.
• Cost-Effective Operation: Pedestal sump pumps generally have a lower upfront cost and may require fewer repairs over their lifetime, making them a budget-friendly option for many homeowners.

Disadvantages:

• Louder Operation: Since the motor is above the water, pedestal pumps tend to be noisier. If the sump pit is located near living spaces like a basement rec room or bedroom, the noise could be disruptive.
• Consumes More Energy: Pedestal sump pumps require more energy to pump water since the motor is not submerged. This can lead to higher energy bills in the long run.

Submersible sump pump

As the name indicates, this type of pump is submerged in the sump itself, down under the water. The pump has intakes that draw the water inside, and the impeller motor then send the water up out of the pump through a pipe that leads to the exit point. These pumps do not tent to last as long as pedestal pumps and suffer more wear. But they are also more energy efficient and effective at water removal.

Advantages:

• Quiet Operation: One of the most significant benefits of submersible sump pumps is that they operate almost silently. Because the motor is submerged in water, it produces much less noise than a pedestal pump, making it an ideal option for homes where the sump pit is near frequently used living areas.
• Better Water Removal: Submersible pumps tend to be more powerful and efficient at removing water compared to pedestal pumps. Their design allows them to handle larger volumes of water in a shorter amount of time, making them especially useful during heavy rainfall or when there is a high risk of flooding.
• More Energy Efficient: Submersible sump pumps generally consume less energy than pedestal pumps. Since the motor is submerged in the sump pit, it works more efficiently to pump out the water, translating to savings on your utility bills.
• Safety in Flood-Prone Areas: The submersible design keeps all the working components below the water, reducing the risk of motor damage from flooding or exposure to the elements.

Disadvantages:

• More Expensive to Install and Maintain: Submersible sump pumps generally have a higher upfront cost, and because they are submerged, repairs or maintenance can be more labor-intensive. In some cases, the entire unit needs to be pulled out from the pit for service.
• Shorter Lifespan Due to Water Exposure: While they are highly effective, submersible sump pumps are more prone to wear and tear. Constant exposure to water can shorten the lifespan to 10-15 years, which is significantly less than pedestal pumps.

Which is the Best?

Choosing between a pedestal and a submersible sump pump depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize easy maintenance and a longer lifespan, a pedestal pump may be the best option. On the other hand, if you want a quieter, more energy-efficient model that can handle a high volume of water, a submersible pump is the better choice. Consulting a professional plumber can help you make the best decision for your home.

Contact Us for Plumbing Repair

At Bud Matthews Services, we know that plumbing problems can throw your routine off balance. From leaky faucets to sump pump malfunctions, we are your one-stop solution for HVAC, plumbing, appliance repair, design/build services, and renovations. Let our team of professionals take care of your plumbing needs, preventing small problems from turning into bigger headaches. Contact us today to schedule your plumbing repair service!

Bud Matthews Services offers installation, repairs, and replacements for sump pumps in Durham, NC.