Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to install a sump pump outside your home? While sump pumps are typically installed in basements or crawl spaces, some homeowners may need to consider alternative locations due to space constraints or other factors.
In this article, we’ll explore the question of whether sump pumps can be installed outside and what factors you should consider before making a decision.
Can Sump Pumps Be Installed Outside?
When it comes to an external pump, they are usually installed outside of a house. It is very similar to the internal version that is installed in a pit. But with that said, you may find the external version being installed in a sump well, which is normally located at least 5 to 15 feet away from the building.
What we like about an outdoor pump is the fact that it removes unwanted water in your backyard and drains it safely to another location. These pumps are extremely effective since their drainage systems are superb when it comes to relocating water quickly during emergency situations, such as during a storm or flooding.
In order to get the best results possible, we always think it would be best to use a sump pump in conjunction with other yard drainage solution. These range from drain pipes to dry wells and french drains.
When Do You Need an Exterior Sump Pump?
If you have a yard without enough space to build a dry well with enough capacity to hold a large amount of water from the runoff, we strongly believe that you should also operate a sump pump.
We also recommend utilizing an exterior sump pump if there are heavy clay soils that don’t drain the runoff well.
How Does the Exterior Sump Pump Work?
The first step is to install the outdoor sump pump at the right spot in the yard. Once that’s done, the pump can be connected to a pipe buried below the ground. Once there is any form of heavy rainfall, you can expect the exterior pump to drain the water to another location that’s not being affected by the high water issues. Most of the time you will find the water exits to the curb, where it can easily flow into the street and then into the sewer system.
The water can also be pumped to a wetland or other low lying area outside of your immediate surroundings. There are many cases where piping is connected to the ones located in the sewer system.
Benefits of Outdoor Installation
When it comes to sump pump installation, homeowners have the option to install them either indoors or outdoors. While indoor installation is the more traditional approach, outdoor installation has been gaining popularity in recent years. Here are some benefits of outdoor installation:
Space Saving
One of the primary advantages of outdoor sump pump installation is that it saves valuable indoor space. A sump pump can take up a significant amount of space in a basement or crawl space, which can limit storage or living space. By installing the pump outside, homeowners can free up indoor space and use it for other purposes.
Ease of Access
Another benefit of outdoor sump pump installation is that it provides easier access for maintenance and repairs. Indoor sump pumps can be difficult to access, especially if they are located in a cramped or hard-to-reach area. Outdoor pumps, on the other hand, are typically installed in a location that is easy to access, which makes maintenance and repairs simpler and less time-consuming.
In addition to these benefits, outdoor sump pumps can also be more effective in certain situations. For example, if a home is located in an area with a high water table, an outdoor sump pump may be more effective at preventing flooding than an indoor pump. Similarly, if a home has limited indoor space, an outdoor pump may be the only viable option.
Alternatives to Outdoor Sump Pumps
When it comes to keeping your property dry and free from water damage, outdoor sump pumps are not the only option available. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
French Drains
French drains are a popular alternative to sump pumps. This drainage system involves digging a trench around the perimeter of your property and filling it with gravel or rock. A perforated pipe is then placed on top of the gravel and covered with more gravel. When it rains, water seeps through the gravel and into the pipe, which carries it away from your property.
French drains are effective at preventing water from pooling around your home, but they can be expensive to install. Additionally, they require regular maintenance to prevent clogs and blockages.
Dry Wells
A dry well is another alternative to outdoor sump pumps. This system involves digging a large hole in the ground and filling it with gravel or rock. A perforated pipe is then placed in the center of the well and covered with more gravel. When it rains, water seeps through the gravel and into the pipe, which carries it away from your property.
Dry wells are effective at preventing water from pooling around your home, but they can be expensive to install. Additionally, they require regular maintenance to prevent clogs and blockages.
Conclusion
Overall, there are several alternatives to outdoor sump pumps that can help you prevent water damage to your property. However, each of these alternatives has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the option that’s right for you.
While it is possible to install a sump pump outside your home, it’s important to carefully consider the location and potential risks before making a decision. Factors such as weather conditions, drainage, and accessibility should all be taken into account to ensure the sump pump will function properly and effectively protect your home from water damage.
If you’re unsure whether an outside installation is right for your home, consulting with a professional plumber or contractor can help you make an informed decision and ensure your home is protected from potential flooding.