As a homeowner, you know the significance of protecting your property from flooding or water damage. In the US alone, records show that 98% of homes experience water damage of some sort, with the average insurance claim being around $11,098.
With that figure, one of the effective methods to keep water-related damages at bay is putting a sump pump system in your basement or crawl space. You can prevent these incidents and costs with a working sump pump.
The number one reason for basement flooding is sump pump failure, and unfortunately, this system can break when you’re not home, or its issues may go unnoticed until it’s too late.
These instances are where a smart sump pump monitoring system comes in handy. Learn why you need smart home sump pump monitoring and more in this handy guide!
What is a Smart Sump Pump Monitoring System and How Does It Work?
A smart sump pump monitoring system is a device that monitors the activity of your sump pump. It also sends notifications to your computer or smartphone if it detects any issues within the system or its surroundings.
These devices can connect to your home’s WiFi network, allowing you to monitor or track the performance of your sump pump system anytime, anywhere.
One high-quality example of a smart sump pump monitoring system in the market today is Basement DefenderTM. Equipped to detect changes in pump activity, it sends text alerts and push notifications to homeowners in case of any issues.
The Basement DefenderTM App allows you to monitor your pump data, basement temperature and humidity, battery, power, and WiFi signal. The app also lets you access your account information, view your daily testing results, and add multiple Defenders to one account.
By installing a top-notch smart sump pump system like Basement DefenderTM, you can have the peace of mind that your sump pump system is being monitored and protected.
5 Benefits of a Smart Sump Pump Monitoring System
Whether you’re a new homeowner or looking for better ways to protect your property, a smart sump pump monitoring system offers several advantages.
1. Prevents water damage and basement flooding
In 2020, around 20% of home insurance claims came from water damage and frozen water pipes that burst. A smart home sump pump monitor can prevent water damage and basement flooding by detecting any issues with your system before they become significant.
2. Detects early signs of sump pump system failure
By installing a monitoring system, you can detect and address early signs of sump pump system failure before they cause severe damage to your property. You can avoid spending up to $60,000, especially if your basement is prone to being flooded with contaminated water.
3. Provides real-time alerts and notifications
Weather isn’t the only risk you face but also plumbing issues. A report shows that about 53% of claims come from plumbing issues, such as leaks and home water system failure.
With a smart sump pump monitoring system, you get real-time alerts and notifications that let you know it’s protecting your home from damage at all times of the day.
4. Brings excellent peace of mind
Monitoring and tracking your sump pump’s performance through this system brings a great sense of security, especially during severe weather or when you’re away from home.
5. Installs easily
Believe it or not, setting up and using these monitoring systems is often a hassle-free experience that doesn’t require advanced technical skills from homeowners. With user-friendly interfaces and simple installation processes, even those who aren’t tech-savvy can easily initiate smart sump pump monitoring and enjoy its benefits.
What to Do When a Smart Sump Pump Monitoring System Sends an Alert
Getting an alert from your smart sump pump monitoring system can be alarming, but it’s a sign that your system is working. Here’s what you should do after getting an alert.
1. Inspect the sump pit
If there is water in the pit, make sure the water is being discharged and the pumps are functioning. The water should be going up and down as it is being pumped out.
Check for visible clogs and blockages in your sump pit, such as rocks, mud, or debris. If you find any, clear them out carefully to avoid damaging the pump or float switch.
2. Check the power source and circuit breaker
If your sump pump system isn’t getting power, check the power source and circuit breaker to see if they work properly. A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker may be why the sump pump isn’t working. You can also check the power cord and verify you plugged it in.
3. Check the discharge line
If you have freezing temperatures, it’s important to check your discharge line outside to see if it’s frozen. A frozen discharge line can cause a backup in your plumbing system, leading to costly damages.
To check if your discharge line is frozen, look for signs of ice buildup around the exterior of the pipe. If you see any ice, try thawing the pipe with warm water or a heat source, such as a hairdryer. It’s also important to ensure that your discharge line is properly insulated to prevent future freezing.
4. Test the backup system
If you have a backup sump pump system, test it to ensure it’s functioning properly in case of a power outage or primary sump pump failure. Regular backup system testing and maintenance can help prevent water damage and flooding in your basement.
If you’re looking for recommendations, the Basement DefenderTM Battery Backup Kit is an excellent option to ensure your sump pump is working even during a power outage. It comes with a powerful 12V battery that can operate the sump pump for up to 8 hours on a single charge, ensuring your home is protected even in extended power outages.
5. Call a professional
If you can’t address the issue alone, it’s important to hire an expert to come and assess the situation. A plumber or sump pump specialist can help identify the problem and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.
Safeguard Your Home the Smart Way
A smart sump pump monitoring system is a crucial investment for homeowners who want to protect their property from water damage. Real-time alerts and remote monitoring capabilities ensure your basement stays safe from flooding, even when you’re away from home.
Dealing with basement flooding can be a serious problem that may cause significant damage to your home, as well as your wallet. With a smart sump pump monitoring system, you can prevent these by addressing issues as soon as they arise.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to invest in a monitoring structure to protect your home from water damage. Partner with the experts like Basement DefenderTM for all your smart sump pump monitoring needs and more!
Our team is dedicated to helping you keep your basement safe and dry, so you can rest easy knowing that your home is protected against the threat of flooding.
Contact us today to learn more about our products, such as our new and improved Basement DefenderTM app, sump pump kit, and other units and accessories.