A French drain is a common drainage solution. French drains prevent water from collecting near your foundation, minimizing the load on the sump pump. French drains can be installed around the perimeter of your home or in specific areas where water tends to collect.

What is a sump pump alarm?

A sump pump alarm is a device that sounds an alert if the water level in your sump basin gets too high, which could indicate a problem with your sump pump. . Consider these options:

Water-activated alarms: These alarms have a sensor that is placed in the sump pit and will sound an alarm when it comes in contact with water. .
Pressure-activated alarms: A change in pressure triggers the alarm.
High-water alarms: A float-activated switch triggers the alarm at a preset water level.

They're highly recommended, especially if your basement is finished.

Do I need a sump pump if I have a French drain?

French drains and sump pumps often work together to prevent flooding. A sump pump is still necessary to remove water that collects in the sump pit, especially during heavy rainfall or when the water table is high. A French drain can help reduce the workload, but it's not a foolproof solution.. Install both systems for optimal basement waterproofing.

Why is my sump pump running but not pumping water?

If your sump pump is running, but not pumping water, there are a few possible reasons::

Clogged Discharge Line: Debris or ice can block the pipe and prevent water from being pumped out. Inspect the line for clogs and ensure proper drainage.
Frozen Discharge Line: Frozen pipes are common in the winter. Thaw the pipe with a hairdryer or heat tape..
Clogged Impeller: The impeller, which is the spinning part of the pump that moves the water, can become clogged with debris.. Inspect the impeller for any obstructions.
Faulty Check Valve: A malfunctioning check valve can prevent the pump from creating enough suction to pump water.. Replace the check valve if necessary.
Switch Problems: Inspect the pump's switches to make sure they are working. Switch issues can cause the pump to run inefficiently or not at all.
Motor Issues: The pump motor might need replacement. If you hear a humming sound but no water is moving, this could indicate a motor problem.

It's best to contact a qualified plumber to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

What is a French drain?

A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock and a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from your home's foundation. . French drains prevent water from collecting near your foundation, minimizing the load on the sump pump. French drains can be installed around the perimeter of your home or in specific areas where water tends to collect.

What is a sump pump alarm?

A sump pump alarm is a device that sounds an alert if the water level in your sump basin gets too high, which could indicate a problem with your sump pump. . There are different types of sump pump alarms, including: :

Water-activated alarms: These alarms have a sensor that is placed in the sump pit and will sound an alarm when it comes in contact with water. .
Pressure-activated alarms: A change in pressure triggers the alarm.
High-water alarms: A float-activated switch triggers the alarm at a preset water level.

They're highly recommended, especially if your basement is finished.

Do I need a sump pump if I have a French drain?

While a French drain can help to redirect water away from your home's foundation, it is not a substitute for a sump pump. A sump pump is still necessary to remove water that collects in the sump pit, especially during heavy rainfall or when the water table is high. A French drain can help reduce the workload, but it's not a foolproof solution.. If you live in an area with a high water table or your basement is prone to flooding, it's best to have both a French drain and a sump pump to provide the best protection..

Why is my sump pump running but not pumping water?

A running sump pump that isn't removing water needs immediate attention. Here are some possible causes:

Clogged Discharge Line: The most common reason is a clogged discharge line. . Inspect the line for clogs and ensure proper drainage.
Frozen Discharge Line: Frozen pipes are common in the winter. Thaw the pipe with a hairdryer or heat tape..
Clogged Impeller: The impeller, which is the spinning part of the pump that moves the water, can become clogged with debris.. Clean the impeller by removing the pump cover and carefully clearing any debris.
Faulty Check Valve: A malfunctioning check valve can prevent the pump from creating enough suction to pump water.. Check valve failure is a common issue.
Switch Problems: Inspect the pump's switches to make sure they are working. Replace the switch if it's malfunctioning.
Motor Issues: The pump motor might need replacement. If you hear a humming sound but no water is moving, this could indicate a motor problem.

It's best to contact a qualified plumber to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.