Definition

Noun: A sump pump is a mechanical device, specifically a type of suction pump, designed to remove accumulated liquid (typically water) from a sump pit or basin. Its primary function is to prevent flooding and water damage by automatically pumping water away from a designated area to a suitable drainage location.

Usage

A sump pump is installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace, inside a specially constructed pit called a sump. It activates automatically when water in the pit rises to a predetermined level, pumping the water out through a discharge pipe.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The basement stayed dry during the heavy rains thanks to the reliable sump pump.
  • We need to install a sump pump to prevent groundwater from seeping into the foundation.
  • A battery backup for your sump pump is essential in case of a power outage during a storm.

Advanced Usage

• Primary vs. Backup Sump Pump: In critical applications, a primary electric pump is often paired with a secondary battery-powered or water-powered backup pump to ensure operation during power failures.
• Sump Pump Alarm: A device that alerts homeowners if the water level in the sump pit becomes too high, indicating a potential pump failure.

Variants and Related Words

• Sump (noun): A pit or reservoir in which liquid collects, often where the pump is installed.
• Submersible Pump: A common type of sump pump designed to operate while fully submerged in the pit.
• Pedestal Pump: A type of sump pump where the motor is mounted on a pedestal above the pit, with only the impeller submerged.

Synonyms

• Water pump (general)
• Dewatering pump (in construction/industrial contexts)
• Basement pump (colloquial)

Related Phrases

• "To run a sump pump": To operate a sump pump.
  • During the spring thaw, the sump pump runs constantly.
• "Sump pump failure": When the pump stops working correctly.
  • The extensive flood damage was caused by a sump pump failure.

Noun

1. a suction pump for removing liquid from a sump