Sump Pump Installation, Maintenance & Repair in Ottawa

Where Is Your Sump Pump Located?

Sump pumps are usually located in the basement of residential homes. In commercial properties, you’ll often find them in boiler rooms or mechanical areas.

The pump sits inside a 3-foot sump pit, with the lid installed flush to the basement floor. Its job is simple but crucial: remove water from the pit and redirect it safely away from your foundation using a system of ABS piping.

Water enters the sump pit through:

• Natural underground water seepage
  
  

• Perforated drainage pipes (weeping tile systems)
  
  

When the water reaches a certain level (the water table), a float switch activates the pump, pushing the water outside before it can flood your basement.

Types of Sump Pumps: Pedestal vs. Submersible

There are two main types of sump pumps, each with its own pros and cons:

🧱 Pedestal Sump Pumps

• Mounted above the sump pit
  
  

• Easier to access for maintenance
  
  

• Typically louder
  
  

🧱 Submersible Sump Pumps

• Installed inside the sump pit (underwater)
  
  

• Quieter operation
  
  

• Better for finished basements
  
  

Larger pits often require higher horsepower pumps, which drain water faster. For extra protection, consider installing a battery backup sump pump, which will kick in during power outages or pump failures. It’s an investment that can save you thousands in potential flood damage.

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips for Ottawa Homes

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your sump pump and prevent water damage. Here's how to care for your system:

✅ Check your sump pump at least twice a year

• Especially before winter or Ottawa’s heavy spring thaw
  
  

• If you have a high water table or frequent rain, check it more often
  
  

✅ Inspect your ABS discharge pipe

• Make sure it’s not frozen, clogged, or cracked
  
  

• Frozen pipes can burn out your pump—replace them immediately
  
  

✅ Prevent freezing with a heat cable

• Install inside the discharge pipe to prevent ice buildup
  
  

• Helps ensure water flows smoothly, even during extreme cold
  
  

✅ Check the pipe’s downward slope

• Your discharge line should angle away from the house
  
  

• This ensures proper drainage and keeps your foundation dry
  
  

Need Help With Your Sump Pump?

Whether your system needs a checkup, repair, or full replacement, Euro Parging in Ottawa has the experience and equipment to help.

📞 Call us today or
📧 Email us at europarging@gmail.com for a free consultation.

We’ll inspect your sump pump, make recommendations, and ensure your home is protected from costly basement flooding—all year long.