What Does a Sump Pump Do?

If you’ve ever had water in your basement after a spring snowmelt or a summer storm, you already know how damaging even a few inches of water can be. From soaked carpets to ruined appliances and structural damage, moisture intrusion can wreak havoc on your home. That’s where a sump pump comes in.

A sump pump is one of the most effective tools for protecting your home from water damage—and in Denver, where wet basements are common, it’s a smart investment.

Since 1926, the Denver plumbers at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical have helped homeowners keep their homes dry and safe with reliable sump pump solutions. In this post, we’ll break down how sump pumps work, when you need one, and why proper installation and maintenance matter.

What Is a Sump Pump and How Does It Work?

A sump pump is a device designed to remove water that collects in a sump pit, typically located in the lowest point of your basement or crawl space. Here’s how it works:

1. Water enters the sump pit through drains or natural groundwater seepage.
2. When the water rises to a certain level, it activates a float switch.
3. The float triggers the electric motor, which powers a small impeller (similar to a fan).
4. The impeller spins rapidly, pulling water in and pushing it up through a discharge pipe.
5. The water is then safely expelled away from your home, typically into a storm drain or the yard.

Once the water level drops, the float lowers, and the pump shuts off automatically.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two primary types of sump pumps used in Denver homes:

• Submersible Sump Pumps: These units sit completely inside the sump pit. They’re compact, quieter, and ideal for finished basements.
• Pedestal Sump Pumps: With the motor mounted above the pit, pedestal pumps are easier to service but louder in operation.

Both types are typically hardwired into your home’s electrical system. For added protection, especially during Denver’s powerful storms, many homeowners also install a battery backup system. This ensures your sump pump works even if the power goes out.

Why Are Sump Pumps Important in Denver?

Denver homeowners face a unique mix of moisture risks:

• Spring snowmelt from the Front Range can saturate the ground and raise the water table.
• Heavy summer thunderstorms often cause flash flooding and water seepage.
• High water table zones, especially near streams or low-lying areas, are more prone to basement moisture.
• Older homes may have foundation cracks or inadequate drainage.

Without a sump pump, this water can seep into your basement, leading to:

• Costly flood damage
• Mold and mildew growth
• Foundation deterioration
• Electrical system hazards

A sump pump is your first line of defense against all of these.

3 Key Benefits of a Sump Pump

Installing a sump pump isn’t just about avoiding a soggy basement—it’s about protecting your home, your health, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal moisture or unpredictable Denver weather, a sump pump offers critical advantages that go far beyond simple water removal. Here are three of the most important benefits:

1. Prevent Flood Damage: Quickly removes stormwater or seepage before it pools or floods your basement.
2. Protect Indoor Air Quality & Structure: Prevents mold, mildew, and moisture buildup that can damage materials and aggravate allergies.
3. Avoid Fire Hazards: Floodwater can short-circuit appliances like water heaters, dryers, or HVAC systems, creating a fire risk. A sump pump helps keep these systems dry and safe.

Does Your Home Need a Sump Pump?

Not every home comes with a sump pump, but many would benefit from having one—especially in areas like Denver where snowmelt, rain, and rising groundwater can catch homeowners off guard. If you’re unsure whether your home needs a sump pump, ask yourself the following questions:

• Have you noticed water or dampness in your basement or crawl space?
• Does water pool around your foundation after a storm?
• Is your home in a low-lying or flood-prone area of Denver?
• Do you store valuables, electronics, or equipment in your basement?

If you answered yes to any of these, a sump pump is a worthwhile investment—and potentially a necessity.

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

Even the best sump pump needs regular maintenance to work when it’s needed most. Here’s how to keep yours in good shape:

• Test the pump every spring by pouring water into the pit and ensuring it turns on and drains properly.
• Clean debris from the pit and inlet screen.
• Inspect the float switch—it’s the most common failure point.
• Check for signs of rust, odors, or unusual noises like humming or clanging.
• Ensure proper drainage—make sure water is being discharged at least 20 feet from your home.
• Replace the pump every 7–10 years (or sooner if it runs frequently).
• Install a battery backup and test it periodically, especially before the rainy season.

Why Denver Homeowners Trust Bell

When it comes to keeping your home safe and dry, Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical has earned the trust of generations of Colorado families.

Here’s why:

• Locally owned & operated since 1926
• Licensed, bonded & insured technicians
• Flat-rate, upfront pricing with no high-pressure sales
• Clean, respectful service—our team wears shoe covers and leaves your space clean
• We handle the details: permitting, product selection, and haul-away
• Emergency backup systems and service plans available

With Bell, you’re not just getting a sump pump—you’re getting peace of mind.

Schedule Your Sump Pump Service Today

Don’t wait for water to show up in your basement before you act. Whether you need a brand-new sump pump, a backup system, or just a checkup, Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical is ready to help.