A submersible sump pump works by detecting rising water levels, then automatically pumping the water away from your property through a discharge line. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Key Components
- Sump Pit: This is a basin, typically located in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace, that collects water.
- Pump Housing: The submersible pump sits inside the sump pit and is designed to be fully submerged in water.
- Impeller: A rotating component inside the pump that pushes water upwards.
- Motor: Powers the impeller.
- Float Switch (or pressure sensor): This mechanism detects the water level in the sump pit. When the water level rises to a certain point, the float switch activates the pump. Some pumps use pressure sensors instead of float switches.
- Discharge Pipe: A pipe that carries the water away from the sump pit and to a designated drainage area, like a yard or storm drain.
- Check Valve: Located within the discharge pipe, it prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after the pump shuts off.
The Process Explained
- Water Collection: Water naturally accumulates in the sump pit through groundwater seepage or from drainage systems around the foundation of the house.
- Water Level Detection: As the water level rises in the sump pit, the float switch (or pressure sensor) rises with it.
- Activation: Once the water reaches a pre-determined level, the float switch triggers the pump's motor to turn on.
- Pumping: The motor spins the impeller, which forces water upwards through the pump and into the discharge pipe.
- Discharge: The water flows through the discharge pipe and is directed away from the foundation of the house, preventing flooding.
- Shut-Off: As the water level drops, the float switch lowers. When the water level reaches a low enough point, the float switch deactivates the pump, and it shuts off. The check valve prevents backflow.
- Cycle Repeats: This process repeats automatically as needed to keep the water level in the sump pit under control.
In summary, a submersible sump pump uses a float switch or pressure sensor to detect rising water, then activates a motor to drive an impeller, which pumps the water out of the sump pit and away from the building. This prevents water damage and flooding in basements and crawlspaces.
