There is a sump pump in my basement does that mean there is a problem with the basement flooding.?

Answer 1

In addition, most new houses include one that don't have enough elevation to gravity drain. Not a red flag, just standard issue.

Answer 2

I disagree. If you have the proper drainage and waterproofing in place, then you don't need a sump-pump. Yes, it probable has flooded before! I own a basement waterproofing company in the Nashville area, and have looked at hundreds of problems in the past. A sump pump is a band-aid. You should shoot for no water entering in the first place. Another thing to consider is the damage it does to your foundation when it does penetrate through. Settlement is a real concern also. I'll get off my soapbox now, but I don't agree with having to have a sump pump just because you have a basement.

Answer 3

Not necessarily. A properly installed sump pump is there to prevent ground water from flooding your basement, but it isn't proof that there is acutally a ground water problem.

If done correctly, there will be drainage tiles and a gravel bed under the floor around the perimeter. Water drains from the soil into the tiles, flows to the sump pump area.

I don't have one, but my mothers house does. It only runs when she runs the AC, because it drains into the sump. It has never filled with ground water to my knowledge in the 20 years she lived there.

That being said, your house may or may not be prone to flooding. The presence of the pump only indicates that it was a concern for someone, valid or not.

I don't have a floor drain or sump pump, and wished I had when I replaced my water heater. It makes for a handy place to dump water when needed. Also my furnace/AC has to have it's own small pump to remove condensation.

Answer 4

No,

It simply means that the groundwater table is high enough that in the event of heavy rain it is possible that water will seep into your basement from cracks in the foundation. Having a French Drain on the edge of the foundation floor with a sump pump guarantees that your basement will always be dry. Always test your sump pump periodically (once every 6 months would be OK) to ensure proper function.

Answer 5

If it works correctly it will keep your basement from flooding in all but the most severe situations. A sump pump in a full basement is probably a good idea even if it hardly ever turns on.

Answer 6

No. It may have been installed as a safety measure. If your area is in a high water table, that could also be the reason. Look into the sump and see if it has a high water line mark or is damp.

Answer 7

not necessarily,but it is a good idea to test pump to make sure it works,all basements should have one if you are away and a pipe breaks ,or if there are any water leaks the pump will pump ot the water.