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. They're an effective solution for diverting water.

What is a sump pump alarm?

A sump pump alarm is a safety device that notifies you if the water in your sump pit gets too high, often indicating that the pump has failed or is malfunctioning. 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: These alarms are installed near the top of the sump pit and will sound when the water level reaches a certain point.

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. However, a pump offers active water removal. 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. Check the discharge line and remove any obstructions.
Frozen Discharge Line: In cold weather, the discharge line can freeze, preventing the pump from removing water. . Thaw the pipe with a hairdryer or heat tape..
Clogged Impeller: The impeller is responsible for drawing water into the pump. Inspect the impeller for any obstructions.
Faulty Check Valve: A check valve allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow. 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 may be burnt out or malfunctioning, preventing it from pumping water. . A faulty motor might not be able to drive the pump.

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 common drainage solution. French drains prevent water from collecting near your foundation, minimizing the load on the sump pump. They're an effective solution for diverting water.

What is a sump pump alarm?

A sump pump alarm is a safety device that notifies you if the water in your sump pit gets too high, which could indicate a problem with your sump pump. . Consider these options:

Water-activated alarms: They activate when water touches the sensor.
Pressure-activated alarms: A change in pressure triggers the alarm.
High-water alarms: These alarms are installed near the top of the sump pit and will sound when the water level reaches a certain point.

Sump pump alarms are an important safety feature, as they can give you early warning of a potential flooding problem, allowing you to take action before your basement floods. . .

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?

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.. Inspect the impeller for any obstructions.
Faulty Check Valve: A check valve allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow. Replace the check valve if necessary.
Switch Problems: If the float switch is stuck or the pressure switch is faulty, the pump may not activate properly. . Replace the switch if it's malfunctioning.
Motor Issues: The pump motor might need replacement. A faulty motor might not be able to drive the pump.

If you suspect a problem with your sump pump, consult with a professional. Don't attempt to repair it yourself unless you have the necessary electrical experience and knowledge of safety precautions for working with water and electricity.