How do water powered sump pumps work?
Consisting of four major parts – a ground-water collection system, a sump tank, a pump and an outlet drain – water powered sump pumps can be the most reliable defence mechanisms against basement flood water. Ground water produced by rain is collected in drainage tiles that are buried along the foundation of your home. In some cases, tiles are buried under the basement floor as well. These tiles collect and channel water into what is called a sump tank that is installed in the floor of your basement. When collected ground water fills the tank to a certain level, a float or switching device activates the pump which in turn will drain the tank. Water is drawn through a filter trap (which must be cleaned on a regular basis), and then pumped out of a discharge pipe or hose to a location well away from your home. Those models that connect directly to a sewage system may be comprised of an anti-siphon mechanism that will prevent back-flow. City bylaws in your area dictate where the water must
