Expert Tips for Sump Pump Installation in Davenport: Avoid Basement Flooding

A sump pump in Davenport, IA, ensures that any excess water is pumped away from the foundation of your home so that your basement stays dry.

When it comes to preventing water damage in your home, sump pump installation in Davenport is more than just a good idea; it’s a necessity. Because Davenport’s location is near the Mississippi River and has chances for seasonal flooding, getting a good sump pump installed can make the difference between having a dry basement.

Importance of Sump Pumps in Davenport

The people of Davenport are accustomed to heavy rains, and their severe weather, especially in the spring and early summer, often brings more flash flooding their way. The average annual rainfall in the Quad Cities is 37 inches, the National Weather Service reports. Without proper drainage, that moisture is just a recipe for basement flooding, mold growth, and structural damage.

1: Select the Appropriate Sump Pump

There are two types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible sump pumps reside in the pit and are better for removing water, working best in high-volume water removal. Pedestal pumps are installed above the sump pit and are more accessible for servicing, but can be louder.

In Davenport, where soil saturation and flooding are a concern, many local experts suggest the deeper submersible models for their extra power, longevity, and safety.

2: Proper positioning and pit size

One of the typical errors in installing a sump pump, Davenport residents commit is getting the wrong size of pit or installing it in a risk-free zone. Your sump pit should be dug at the lowest part of the basement where water accumulates.

The pit must be at least 18 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep to accommodate large water flow. And a close seal around the pit prevents odors and debris buildup.

3: Battery Backups Are Not Optional

It is smarter to have a battery backup system for your home than not.

Power goes out in a major storm, just when you need your sump pump most. If the power fails, a battery backup will keep your pump running.

”About 60 percent of the sump pump failures we encounter in Davenport are a result of power outages,’ adds local contractor Jim Wallace of Flood Shield Installations. A contingency isn’t nice to have — it’s protection.”

4: Regular Testing and Maintaining Keep testing and maintaining it regularly

Installing a sump pump is just the start. If you want to keep it functioning, you must maintain it regularly. Check your system every few months by dumping a bucket of water in the pit and making sure your pump turns on.

Grit debris out of the pit and ensure the discharge line is not clogged or frozen in winter. Most Davenport homeowners opt to schedule an annual inspection before the rainy season to give themselves peace of mind.

Conclusion

A flooded basement can be a nightmare, but with some planning and a sump pump installation in Davenport, you can protect your home from water damage. From selecting the proper pump to getting a battery backup, these expert tips will ensure a dry basement year-round.