In humid areas like Georgia, standing water can create a more humid environment indoors, priming your property for water damage. A sump pump can reduce the chances of standing water and keep your basement and other ground-level rooms dry. It can also combat potential flooding from plumbing mishaps or weather conditions.
However, we understand wanting to save as much money as possible. If so, you may be wondering, “Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump or can you follow the do-it-yourself (DIY) trend?” Cooper’s Plumbing & Air associates have much to say as experienced plumbers in Bainbridge, GA, so hear us out!
What Is a Sump Pump?
First and foremost, what is a sump pump, and how does it keep your property dry?
A sump pump works as a specialized drainage appliance to remove water from a designated location and release it elsewhere. Technicians install them in a pit inside your lowest floor, usually the basement, to ensure any water in higher floors also flows down and out.
They come with valves to mechanically detect rising water levels or the presence of water pressure. Once the system starts, it automatically sucks in any water through the effluent, or discharge line, to a drainage spot. Many drainage locations are outdoors, but others may include preexisting infrastructure:
- Ponds
- Creeks
- Dry wells
- Neighborhood drains
The Biggest Reason for a Sump Pump
Your sump pump should protect your property’s foundation and nearby paved surfaces. Otherwise, water damage can cause them to crack and break down, leading to building issues that may require expensive repairs.
Of course, you cannot dump the sump water everywhere. For example, your sump pump should never drain to your or anyone else’s septic tank because it could hinder proper septic system care, like wastewater treatment. City ordinances may also prevent you from connecting your sump pump to city sewer systems to keep from overtaxing their pipelines.
Should You DIY Your Sump Pump Installation?
So, knowing what you do now, do you need a plumber to install a sump pump in Georgia? For the general homeowner, we suggest relying on professional plumbers instead.
That may seem easy for us to say as plumbers who would benefit from completing the service. However, we believe you would get the best results from the arrangement. Here are five reasons we think you’d profit more from an expert sump pump installation.
#1. Fewer Technical Woes
When installing a new sump pump, you need to know several specific details that can be difficult to obtain without prior experience, such as:
- Which kind of sump pump you need
- Which size works best for your property size
- What size you need to make your drainage pipes
- How deep you need to dig to install the pump
- Where you can drain whatever the sump pump processes
Obtaining these details can be very time-consuming, especially if you already have duties that take up time, like employment or raising children. You would likely be better off leaving this process to professionals who make it their duty to get everything correct down to the nearest inch.
#2. Fewer Legal Responsibilities
Sump pump installations must follow local codes and regulations, from the size of the system to its connections to any existing drainage infrastructure. Moreover, many city governments require that you have a plumbing license for the detailed work a sump pump needs.
Having an expert, licensed plumber means you can rely on their work instead of following the difficult path of doing it yourself. After all, if you were to try and fail to meet governmental expectations, they would hold you accountable for damages and fees. You remove the risk from your circumstances by hiring a plumbing contractor.
#3. Less Physical Effort in the Installation Process
Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump? It can be such an intensive plumbing project, and you need to know how to operate the machinery to dig into the ground and labor, sometimes for hours, to ensure accurate installation in each step. Changing a pipe inside your home may not require as much physical acuity, but installing a sump pump does.
Many home and business owners have disabilities, age-related mobility issues, and other limitations for heavy plumbing work. You may also be tired after a long day committed to your usual daily activities. Our plumbers can take care of everything for you.
#4. More Appliance and Building Protection
Appliances and different parts of your building have warranties that allow you to pay less in case of damage within a set period. However, a warranty often stipulates you can only receive repairs from qualified personnel. The warranty usually doesn’t include the one purchasing the appliance or building component as someone qualified to complete repairs.
You could lose your warranty if you attempt to DIY your sump pump installation. Instead, consider an expert who can not only maintain your warranty but also add a new one to protect your sump pump better.
#5. Fewer Expenses
If you work on a part of your property and damage it, you must take care of the repair costs. Most qualified plumbers also have insurance, protecting you in case they get injured while working or damage something. Then, you don’t have to come out-of-pocket for expenses their insurance otherwise covers.
Also, a professional sump pump installation often comes with a service warranty. If you face any issues with your sump pump, the warranty will cover some or all the repair costs. If you damage your property during or after a DIY installation, you’re on your own.
Expert Plumbers at Your Service
Cooper’s Plumbing & Air has helped business owners and residents in and around Bainbridge, GA, keep basement flooding to a minimum for over 20 years. For those undertaking significant plumbing work, obtaining a permit to replace sewer line is essential. Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump? Do you need to increase water pressure in your home?
Call us at 866-464-7132 or visit our contact page to schedule your consultation today.