If your home is equipped with a sump pump, it is usually only a matter of time before a failure occurs.  How do you know what the best option is for its replacement?  There are a variety of sizes, some as large as a 1 hp sump pump.  There are also many styles to choose from and a little background on each of these types will help you make a decision.

Sump pump comparisons involve many important factors including the type of switching mechanism, the materials used, the flow rate, energy consumption, and warranty.  Of course, price is a factor as well.  The goal is to install a sump pump that will get the job done for the best value.  Feehan Plumbing, Heating and Cooling will be able to help you select the proper size sump pump for your application.  We’ve been installing sump pumps in Tri-County homeowner’s basements for over 35 years!

Give us a call at 484.352.2643 to schedule a time for us to come out and repair or replace your sump pump unit. 

Types of Sump Pumps we Service and Install

The physical size of your pump may depend on the size of your sump pit.  An 18” diameter pit will allow enough clearance for most pumps.  Larger 1 hp sump pump units may have problems fitting in tight spaces. Be sure to measure the width and depth of your sump pit before you make a purchase.  Consider the location of the float switch as well.  If your pump is not deep enough, the float switch may not be able to work properly.

Most sump pumps are equipped with a motor that is rated less than 1 hp.  Often, they are sold as 1/4, 1/3 or 3/4 hp sump pumps.  Obviously, a 1 hp sump pump or larger will remove more water and can keep up better so they will have motor and a larger price tag.  One drawback to the larger pumps is that they also use more electricity than smaller pumps.

No matter what size pump you are considering, you should pay careful attention to the materials that the pump is made from.  The housing is the most important material to consider, as it will have a direct bearing on the life span of the pump.  Most often, pumps are made from plastic, cast iron, cast bronze or stainless steel.  Plastic pumps are lighter weight and more susceptible to damage and wear and tear than metal.  Cast iron, bronze and stainless steel will offer the best in longevity, but with an increase in cost.

There are various styles of float switches used for sump pumps.  A tether style switch uses a float that hangs off the top or side of the pump and moves up and down with a switch inside it.  A vertical float pushes a rod up and down that slides in bushings and a diaphragm switch is a small drum-type device that senses an increase in water pressure to turn the pump on.  Finally, there is a switch that utilizes an electronic, water-sensing probe to turn on a pump switch.  Of all these devices, you will want to choose the switch design that will work best for your situation.  Float pumps can become blocked by objects in tight quarters or by debris, so make sure you have enough clearance for the pump to move freely within the sump pit liner.

In tight quarters where there is risk of the float becoming stuck, it may be best to utilize a diaphragm switch or a probe-activated switch.  These contain virtually no moving parts and can reduce the likelihood of sump pump failure.  Pumps that utilize these types of switches are typically more expensive than their float-switched counterparts.

Sump Pump Questions?  Call Feehan Plumbing at 484.352.2643

About Feehan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Plumbing Services

Feehan Plumbing is a third generation, family owned plumbing company. For over 35 years we have been proudly servicing Chester, Delaware and Montgomery area homeowners. Feehan Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers a full range of same day emergency plumbing services to all Tri-County area residents 24 hours a day and 7 days per week. Our fully licensed, insured and trained technicians are equipped with all of the tools and a truck full of parts to get the job done fast and affordably.

How Can our Team of Local & Experienced Plumbers Help You?

• Residential Plumbing
• Water Heater Installation
• Tankless Water Heaters
• Sump Pumps
• Ejector Pumps
• Water Leak Repair
• Toilet Service & Installation
• Boiler Service & Installation
• Furnace Service & Installation
• Faucet Service & Replacement
• Heating System Repairs
• Pipe & Valve Repair
• Water Filtration
• Water Softeners
• Gas Pipe Repair & Installation
• Gas Appliance Hook-Up
• Tub Service & Replacement
• Garbage Disposal Repair & Replacement
• Sewer Replacement
• Main Line Service & Repair
• Trenchless Sewer Systems
• Drain Cleaning
• New Construction Plumbing
• Bathroom Remodeling
• Kitchen Remodeling
• AC Installation
• AC Service & Repair

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Schedule Service: Call 610-572-3055 or 484-352-2643

Plumbing Contractor Service

Choosing the right plumber or plumbing contractor is important. If you’re like most people seeking a local plumber, than you certainly want a plumbing contractor that you can trust, is reliable, and affordable. At Feehan plumbing, we are here to take away all your worries about your plumbing concerns. From small leaks to large problems, you can trust the Feehan plumbing services can provide you the best local plumbing contractor services around.

Montgomery County

• Ardmore
• Bala Cynwyd
• Bridgeport
• Conshohocken
• Merion Station
• Narberth
• Norristown
• Plymouth Meeting
• Valley Forge
• Wynnewood