Dr.Pipe Ottawa: Heavy Rains Put Sump Pumps To Work

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Sump Pumps To Work

In Ottawa, basements flood all the time and this is likely due to the heavy rainfall in the region. It is imperative that a homeowner finds a cost effective means for protecting the home from flooding and water damage. The cheapest means of doing so is the installation of a sump pump coupled with a backup system. If you are a homeowner who already has had the forethought to install a sump pump as well as a backup system, you should check the system and pump regularly to ensure its operation and that it is in working order.

Steps for Assessing the Integrity of Your Sump Pump

Step 1: Look for the pipes outside catching the water that drains off from the sump pump; examine the inside of the pipe for any potential debris or dirt that might clog the existing drain.

Step 2: Using a large cooking pot or a 5-gallon bucket filled with water, pour water slowly into the sump pit. As you do so, keep an eye on the water level inside the pit.

Step 3: The sump pumps float will rise and the unit will automatically turn on before the water level gets to the top of the pit. Likewise, when the pit on the pump empties, the sump pump shuts off automatically.

Step 4: If you notice that the float fails to rise after pouring water into the pit or if the sump pump is not powering on or off appropriately, then the unit will require further inspection.

Step 5: While it may seem silly, it is always good to make sure that the plug is still in an electrical outlet as you test the pump. Sometimes repairing the unit is as simple as plugging it in. Also, make sure that the power is going to the electrical outlet where the sump pump is plugged in: Damp areas in the basement may trip the electrical outlets.

Step 6: Make sure you check the pump every 2 to 3 months.

Please note: A sump pump is dependent on electricity to operate. This is fine provided you have electricity but what happens if there is a power outage? A wise homeowner would do well to invest in a battery backup system. With the latter system, if the power goes out, the battery pack would take over and the sump pump would automatically turn on when needed. The backup system could have a seven-hour lifespan.

Another alternative that can keep your basement protected from a flood is to install a water backup system. The professional plumbers at Dr. Pipe Drain and Plumbing are happy to install either system for you. Both systems protect the basement from flooding, prevent water damage, prevent mold growth, and stop the development of humidity.

Give us a call today: 613 791 5777 for a free upfront estimate!

Testimonials

Drain Replacement, Backflow Valve, Sump Pump, Etc.

When I woke up this morning, I was not expecting my basement to have transformed into a full-blown lake. One of our neighbors recommended Dr. Pipe. Our neighbors had needed to replace some of the drains under their home and also recently had a backwater valve installed.

Max came to us and talked about the quote. One of the great things about the discussion was that he took his time and explained everything to me. I remember that Max took the time to make sure that both my partner and I were on the same page and understood everything.

I really want to be honest and admit that I was not particularly friendly that day, I had already received three different quotes, and I just wanted the work to get started. We still decided to go with Max’s company, despite the fact that we already had several other quotes. It was not just about money that we were going to pay, it was about quality, it was about trust, it is about wanting to give my business to a company that wanted ME as a customer.

I can tell you that both Max and his crew came across as polite, clean, honest, and reliable. They were extremely pleasant to work with. The quality of the work that they delivered is excellent, and it certainly added value to the home. Even our insurance rates went down because of the quality work.

It is extremely comforting to know that I have peace of mind the next time that the rain comes down. During the last late-fall storm, it was extremely comforting to hear the sump pump turn on, that sound really allows you to sleep soundly at night.

I have no doubt that the pipes are going to be fine once the tree roots are growing and the snow melts. It is comforting to know is that even if they are not fine, I know that Max is going to be a phone call away to help me set things right. I would honestly be shocked if Max somehow did not uphold the warranty that we have. Honestly, that is the level of trust that we have in Max.

Max

Backed-Up Drain

It is not often that a plumbing company is able to save you 10,000 dollars. We had experienced a serious drain backup and received quotes from five different drain and plumbing specialists. These included some of the more popular local names, and a few that received a very high ranking on HomeStars. Most of them scoped the drain and told me all the root issues and the critical deficiencies that would continuously lead to problems. They suggested that that we crack the floor, replace the drainpipe, and have the pipe from the front lawn excavated, I would be looking at around $5-10k!

Max did the same exact research that these other companies did, but he told me that the drain was not deficient at all; in fact, it had many more years left! I know that Max was honestly biting his tongue when we discussed what these other companies had said. He rooted the drain (very fast) and there has not been a single issue with our pipes since.

Grant

Trenchless Sewer Pipe

I received two quotes for my plumbing. The quote from Dr. Pipe was good, but what I really appreciated was the fact that the professionals at Dr. Pipe took their time to look at the issue, do the research, and actually SHOW me the problem in real-time. The other company never did give me an exact quote, and I was quite worried about potential “unexpected costs.” Both Max and the rest of his crew were extremely professional, kept the area as neat and tidy as possible, and cleaned up after they were done. Despite the fact that I was not actually onsite during the entire three-day process, I felt comfortable enough to give them a key to the property. When someone actually came and took something from the property (I was expecting them to), Max actually called my private number and asked me whether this was OK. I would highly recommend the services of Dr. Pipe.

Rick S.

Drain Work and Sump Pump Installation

Max was the first person to respond to our call for help after our basement flooded. He was quick in determining what the root of the issue was, and fixed the problem quickly. In addition to finding the issue, he also showed us a (potential) issue in our sanitary and storm water drains. He managed to find the possible issue with the drain-camera in a quick amount of time.

Max was courteous and professional when it came to helping us find future issues as well. He helped us alleviate concerns about future problems, thanks to his professional explanation. I have to admit I was also pleasantly surprised by the work of his crew. They cleaned their area thoroughly each time as well. Now I know that extensive repairs are never going to be cheap, but I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised at how reasonable the pricing was. Max even helped us fill out the necessary paperwork to file for our basement flooding prevention subsidy.

Stewart

Contact Dr.Pipe:

Reach out right now at 613 791 5777 to learn more about how we can better meet your drainage and plumbing needs. You can also fill out the contact form bellow and we will respond within 24 hours.