What is a sump pump? Your guide to preventing home flooding in Canada

The springtime in Canada brings longer days, warmer weather and flowers blooming. But it also brings thawing snow, heavy rain and the risk of basement flooding. Every year, Canadian homeowners are exposed to overland flooding, sewer backups and underground water seepage. And the reality is that even a small leak can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs, mould and mildew growth and ruined possessions.

Today, we'll be explaining the types of water damage that can affect your property, what a sump pump is and how they're designed to prevent flooding in your home. We'll also cover practical safety tips, backup solutions, maintenance and what to consider when it comes to your home insurance, so you can take proactive steps to protect your home before disaster strikes.

Key takeaways

Here are some key takeaways on sump pump for preventing home flooding in Canada:

• A sump pump helps prevent basement flooding by moving excess water away from your home.
• Sump pumps and backwater valves protect against different types of water damage.
• Test your sump pump before spring thaw and heavy rainfall.
• Install a backup battery and water alarm for added protection.
• Keep discharge pipes, gutters, downspouts and window wells clear.
• Document maintenance with photos and test results for insurance claims.
• Consider overland flood and sewer backup coverage.
• Never enter flooded areas where live electricity may be present.
• Check municipal rebate programs for sump pump installations.

Safety first (read this before wading into deeper waters)

Beyond the initial shock of a flooded basement or other water damage, remember that these areas of your home pose a serious safety risk. Water and electricity are a deadly combination, and even a few millimetres of standing water can carry an electric current from a nearby outlet or appliance. Here are some steps to take in the event of a flooding situation:

1. Step 1: Before entering a flooded space, shut off the electricity in your home through your main panel. If you're unsure how to do this, contact an electrician immediately for assistance.
2. Step 2: Keep small children and pets away from the area to prevent injuries.

• Wear personal protective equipment: Wear waterproof boots, gloves and eye protection when entering. Avoid contact with pooled water if you have open wounds or cuts. The water may contain sewage, bacteria or harmful chemicals.
• Document the damage: Take photos and videos of all affected areas, personal belongings and appliances to support your insurance claim.
• Never attempt to drain water: Depending on your local municipal codes, you may be prohibited from draining water back to sanitary sewers.
• Water level rising: If water levels are rising in your home or involve fast-moving water, evacuate your home immediately and call emergency services. For additional information on how to prepare for a flood, review the Government of Canada's Flood Safety Guide.

Water damage types and insurance coverage

According to Accomsure, water damage is the greatest cause of property loss, costing around $1.7 billion annually in Canada.

Water can enter your home in several ways. And while it may seem like water-related problems are automatically covered by your insurance company, it's important to remember that insurance coverage is complex and varies depending on the peril policy and optional endorsements purchased. Here are the main types of water damage for which coverage is typically available in Canada:

Sewer backup

Sewer backup is an optional home insurance endorsement that can be added to any standard plan upon your request. Sewer backup occurs when water backs up from the municipal sewer system and flows into your home through your drains. With a backup water valve installed, sewage backup is stopped from flowing into your home through your drainage system and equipping your home with this type of device can lead to an insurance discount with your provider.

Overland water

This is water damage caused by a lake/river, overflow, heavy rain or rapid snow melt that enters your home from a point at or above the ground surface. Again, overland flood insurance is an optional endorsement not included in basic homeowners insurance plans, but it is highly recommended for those living near bodies of water or those located in flood plains.

Water and sewer lines

Repairs and replacements resulting from water or sewer lines may be covered by your home insurance if the loss results from a leak, break, tear, rupture or collapse of the plumbing line. The key here is that the damage occurred suddenly and accidentally, for it to be compensated by your insurance company.

Groundwater/seepage

Groundwater and seepage are often excluded from insurance plans unless there is a specific endorsement available/added to your policy. These types of foundation leaks and pressure buildups can cause significant basement flooding.

Even a small amount of water can lead to significant damage. That’s why it’s so crucial to take measures to purchase insurance coverage to protect your home from water damage. Here’s something to note:

Insurance coverage disclaimer

Here’s what you need to know about the insurance coverage disclaimer:

• Insurance policies may have conditions: Some policies may have a waiting period before some forms of water damage are covered, deductibles that must be paid beforehand, or requirements around how sump pumps, backwater valves and water detection alarms are maintained before a claim is approved.
• Keep thorough records regardless of possible claims: Remain up-to-date on all maintenance and preventative measures, including receipts for equipment, service logs, photos of installed devices and other routine tests. This evidence helps insurers verify that you took reasonable measures to prevent damage.

Sump pump 101: What is a sump pump and how does it work?

A sump pump is a pump used to remove accumulated water. It is installed in a sump pit, which is usually found in a basement. The sump pit is usually about 60 cm in diameter with holes on the sides. As the water table rises, water drains into the sump pit and is pumped out and drained far from the foundation of the home. This small but important addition to your home can help prevent your basement from flooding. Below, we’ll discuss the components of sump pumps and how they work:

Key components of sump pumps

• Float switch: Activates your sump pump when water rises.
• Pump types: Pedestal sump pumps (motor above sump pit) vs. submersible sump pump (in sump pit).
• Check valve: Prevents backflow of water.
• Discharge pipe and air gap: Ensures the water collecting sump basin moves water away from your foundation without connecting to your municipal sewer line.

How it works

Here’s how a sump pumps works:

1. In the spring, excess groundwater runs toward the sump pit, which fills with water.
2. This activates the sump pump float switch, which automatically turns the sump pump on.
3. By pumping water out of the pit and into a nearby storm drain, dry well or detention pond, the sump pump prevents flooding from occurring in your basement.

Think of it as an additional piece of your flood insurance protection!

Benefits of sump pumps

Having a sump pump in your home can offer benefits which include:

• Helping to prevent your basement from flooding
• Improving indoor air quality
• Keeping your foundation intact and free from cracks
• Making the basement drier and more comfortable year-round
• Safeguarding basement appliances such as the washer, dryer and spare freezer from water damage
• Reducing mould, mildew and fungus growth
• Discouraging termites and other insect invasions
• Protecting the paint and other wall coverings from peeling
• Offering peace of mind, especially during the wet spring months
• Meeting a requirement for homeowner’s insurance coverage for basement flood damage

Sizing and selection (picking the right sump pump installation for your home)

Choosing the right sump pump for your home in Canada is crucial to preventing basement flooding and ensuring your home stays dry during periods of heavy rain or rapid snowmelt. Not all sump pumps are created the same and choosing the wrong size can leave you exposed to the risk of damage. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the right size sump pump:

Key factors for choosing the right size sump pump

• Head height:> This is the vertical distance the water collecting sump basin needs to be pumped through the discharge pipe to the designated drainage area. The higher the lift height, the slower your sump pump will drain, so a higher head requires a more powerful sump pump.
• Pipe diameter and number of elbows: Water flow slows down when the discharge pipe has numerous bends or elbows and a smaller diameter pipe. You'll need to account for things like friction loss, as each bend can reduce water flow.
• Inflow of water in the collecting sump basin: Consider the size of your basement, the area draining into the sump pump pit and local weather conditions to estimate how much water may collect.

Types of sump pumps and pump capacity

• While there are many types of sump pumps available, most residential homes in Canada use a sump pump ranging from 1/3 to 1/2 horsepower, which is suitable for more standard-sized basements.
• Larger basements, higher water tables and homes located in areas with frequent storms may want to consider a higher-capacity sump pump or a dual-pump setup, which features a backup sump pump if the primary sump pump fails.

These types of sump pumps include the following:

Pedestal sump pumps

Pedestal sump pumps have motors that sit above the sump pit, making them easier to service. While they are more affordable, they don't last as long as submersible sump pumps, and they’re unable to handle large water loads.

Submersible sump pump

Submersible sump pumps operate underwater and sit directly in the sump pit. They are ideal for larger sump pump pits and are more powerful than pedestal sump pump models.

Materials and reliability

According to Zoeller Pumps, cast-iron sump pumps are durable and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for long-term use, though they’re more expensive to install. Plastic sump pumps are also resistant to corrosion, but less expensive.

To find the right material and sump pump for your home, reference manufacturer charts for horsepower, flow rate (GPM) and head height to ensure the sump pump meets your requirements. You can also work with a professional installation team in your area.

Additional considerations

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, some insurance companies may provide homeowners with incentives when they install sump pumps and backwater valves in their homes. Before installing one in your home, speak with a BrokerLink advisor to learn more about what sump pumps qualify for insurance discounts.

Protect your home before flooding happens. Learn what a sump pump is, how it works, and why it’s essential for preventing basement flooding in Canada. For personalized advice on protecting your property, connect with an insurance broker at BrokerLink today.

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Discharge and plumbing best practices

Now that we've covered "what is a sump pump," and the different types of sump pumps available, it's important to mention that proper discharge practices, once your device is installed, are key to preventing basement flooding and complying with municipal regulations.

Incorrect discharge pipes and installations can cause water flow back toward your foundation, causing damage, and be in non-compliance with local building and safety codes. Discharge practices to keep in mind include the following:

Check valve and plumbing setup

Here’s what to look for when checking the valve and plumbing setup:

• According to the National Plumbing Code of Canada, check valves should always be installed above the pump outlet to avoid the backflow of water into the sump pit.
• Never connect your discharge pipe to the municipal sewer lines (most municipal codes prohibit this)

Exterior discharge best practices

Exterior discharge best practices include the following:

• Maintain an air gap at the sump pump outlet to prevent backflow of water into your home.
• Use a daylight outlet to safely release water on your lawn, a splash pad or other storm-safe area that's away from your foundation.
• Avoid discharge areas that tend to refreeze or slope back down toward your house, as this can cause water to re-enter your home and icy hazards.

Maintenance tips for sump pumps

Here are some maintenance tips for sump pumps:

• Inspect the end of your sump pump discharge line following periods of heavy rainfall and during thawing periods.
• Use a durable PVC discharge pipe and consider insulating any exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Power failures and backup solutions

When a storm hits, power outages and flooding are common and can happen simultaneously, which is why a sump pump without a backup sump pump can be risky and expose you to basement flooding. According to the Institute of Catastrophic Loss Reduction, power outages are one of the top causes of sump pump failure, which is why having reliable backup components is essential. These backup components include the following:

Battery backup sump pump

Battery backup sump pumps automatically turn on when your primary pump loses power during an outage or fails. These backup pumps can operate for several hours, depending on their battery size and how much demand they have during the storm. Canadian plumbers suggest maintaining your battery backup system twice a year to ensure that you'll be protected should a pump failure or power outage occur. Your backup system should include:

• A battery backup pump solely dedicated to emergencies
• A charger that allows you to maintain battery health
• Some form of alarm system that notifies you when your battery backup pump is activated

Water-powered backup sump pump systems

Water-powered backup systems like the Zoeller 540 FLEX operate on municipal water pressure, so they don't require batteries or electricity to function. These systems activate during power outages and are ideal for homes that rely on a municipal water supply. However, they can increase your home's water consumption and only work well if your municipal water pressure is strong.

Backup generators

For homes in rural areas of Canada or communities that experience frequent power outages, having a standby generator offers the most reliability. Generators turn on and automatically restore power to your home during an outage, which will keep your primary sump pump working normally.

Maintenance and testing

Performing routine maintenance on your sump pump system is one of the best ways to keep it operating correctly when you need it the most:

Monthly checkups

Monthly checkups include the following:

• Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to trigger the float switch. The sump pump should begin automatically and remove water quickly. If it doesn't, you may have a mechanical issue.
• Confirm the float switch isn't caught on any debris in the sump pit.
• Check that your discharge hose is clear and directs water collecting sump basin away from your foundation. If water pools near your home, you'll need to adjust the line.

In addition to monthly checkups, there is also seasonal and annual maintenance to consider. We’ll discuss each below:

Seasonal maintenance

Seasonal maintenance includes the following:

• Remove buildup in the sump pit and from the discharge line.
• Test your battery backup sump pump and confirm that it is able to engage properly.
• Insulate exposed parts before the winter to prevent ice formation.

Annually

• Consider hiring a licensed plumber to inspect the entire system yearly and check the overall health of your sump pump.

Insurance tip: Keep a record of your maintenance logs as it can support your insurance claim if you ever need to file one in the future.

Seasonal prep and extreme weather

To prep your sump pump for seasonal weather conditions that could impact your equipment:

Spring

Here’s how to prepare your sump pump for spring weather conditions that could affect your equipment:

• Clear your eaves and window wells.
• Ensure your downspouts are extended away from your foundation.
• Test your sump pump, backup battery and high-water level alarm system.

Summer

Here’s how to prepare your sump pump for summer weather conditions that could affect your equipment:

• Confirm that your battery backup pumps are charged.
• Inspect any exterior discharge lines for blockages.

Fall

Here’s how to prepare your sump pump for fall weather conditions that could affect your equipment:

• Remove debris from exterior discharge pipes.
• Insulate exterior pipes that may freeze.
• Check soil grading to ensure water will drain properly.

Winter

Here’s how to prepare your sump pump for winter weather conditions that could affect your equipment:

• Confirm insulation around exposed pipes is still sufficient.
• Maintain consistent heat around your sump pump area in your basement.

Home integrations that amplify home protection

To prevent all forms of water damage in your home, consider:

• Installing a backwater valve to prevent sewage backup in your home
• Improve soil grading to ensure the flow of water moves away from your home
• Use window well covers to reduce rain impact
• Install leak sensors in your laundry room, kitchen and mechanical rooms
• Install a smart water shutoff valve for emergencies

Insurance document and claim readiness

If water damage does occur in your home, good documentation makes navigating the claims process a whole lot easier and more likely to be approved. Here's what to keep in mind:

Before the loss

Things to remember before a loss:

• Maintain receipts, serial numbers and maintenance logs.
• Take photos and videos of your sump pump setup.
• Save screenshots of alarm notifications.

After a loss

Things to remember after a loss:

• Take photos/videos of the damage.
• Create a list of damaged items and damage mitigation steps.
• Keep all restoration invoices.

Work with your broker

Here’s what to know when working with a broker:

• Contact your broker or insurance company immediately.
• Work with your adjuster to provide documentation, get a repair quote and receive approval for your costs.

Sump pump costs, lifespan and ROI

The cost of a new sump pump will vary by province, sump pump type, size and more. Most provinces and municipal governments have sump pump rebates that can help you pay for your sump pump installation. In terms of lifespan, you can expect your pump to last between 7 and 10 years before it will need to be replaced. When considering the cost of water damage, installing a sump pump makes sense as it can help you avoid major claims that can increase your premiums long-term.

The bottom line

A flood can quickly devastate your home, leaving you overwhelmed by the damage – whether it's caused by a major storm, a flash flood, an overflowing river, poor drainage or sewer backup. Planning ahead by taking steps to mitigate potential damage (e.g., installing a sump pump) and purchasing the right insurance coverage can help protect your property.

A BrokerLink insurance advisor will be in your corner, helping you find the best possible insurance plan to suit your needs. They’ll give you expert and unbiased advice so you can have confidence your home is safe.

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FAQs on sump pump

What is the capacity of a sump pump's drainage tank?

Different sump pumps have different capacities. The size you purchase will depend on where you live and how much water you can expect.

How far away from the house should a sump pump drain?

It's recommended that your sump pump carry water a minimum of 2 metres away from your foundation to prevent water pooling and damage.

Is the water from the sump pump's tank automatically drained?

Yes, most sump pumps drain automatically when the water rises above a certain threshold in your pit, which is installed at the lowest point of your basement or utility room.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.