Sewage & Sump Pump Services

We install sump pumps to protect homes from water damage by automatically removing accumulated groundwater from beneath the house. These devices are typically installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace in a specially constructed pit called a sump basin. When groundwater levels rise, particularly during Georgia's heavy spring and summer rains, water flows into this basin. Once the water reaches a certain level, the sump pump activates automatically and pumps the water away from your home's foundation to a designated drainage area or storm drain. This prevents water from seeping into your basement, damaging your foundation, or creating moisture problems that can lead to mold and mildew. In Norcross and surrounding Gwinnett County areas, sump pumps are especially valuable for homes in low-lying areas or properties with histories of moisture issues. They're an essential tool for maintaining a dry basement, preserving structural integrity, and preventing the health problems associated with excess moisture in your home.

We don't consider a sump pump a red flag in Norcross homes—rather, it's often a sign of proactive water management. Given Georgia's substantial annual rainfall and our region's clay soils that don't drain efficiently, many well-maintained homes have sump pumps as preventative measures. A properly installed sump pump system indicates that previous homeowners took steps to protect the property from potential water issues. During home inspections, we recommend focusing on how the system is maintained rather than its mere presence. Check whether the pump is operational, if the basin is properly sized, and whether there's a battery backup for power outages during storms. Ask about the pump's age and service history. In many cases, a home with a well-maintained sump pump may actually present fewer moisture risks than a home without one in our area. Rather than seeing it as a problem, consider it as existing infrastructure that helps protect your investment from water damage common to our Gwinnett County climate.

We strongly advise regular maintenance for sump pumps in Norcross homes. These crucial systems need quarterly inspections at minimum to ensure reliable operation when heavy Georgia rains arrive. Maintenance should include cleaning the pump intake screen and basin to remove debris, silt, and gravel that could clog the system. The float switch requires testing to confirm it moves freely and activates the pump at appropriate water levels. If your system includes a check valve, inspect it for proper operation to prevent water backflow. For battery backup systems, check battery condition and replace them every 2-3 years. We recommend pouring water into the basin to verify the pump cycles correctly during each inspection. During Norcross's rainy season (typically March through July), more frequent checks may be necessary. Professional maintenance should be scheduled annually to assess electrical connections, test alarm systems, and evaluate overall performance. A neglected sump pump can fail when you need it most, potentially resulting in thousands of dollars in water damage to your home.

We typically see sump pumps lasting between 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance, though several factors can affect this lifespan. The frequency of use plays a major role – pumps that run constantly during heavy rain seasons will wear out faster than those in drier areas. The quality of the pump also matters significantly. We've installed higher-end models that have operated reliably for 12-15 years, while cheaper units might need replacement after just 5-6 years.

Regular maintenance can extend your pump's life considerably. We recommend annual inspections where we check the float switch, clean the intake screen, and test the discharge line. Environmental factors in the Norcross area, such as sediment buildup and power fluctuations during storms, can also impact longevity. If your pump is approaching the 8-year mark or showing signs of decreased performance, we suggest having us evaluate whether repair or replacement makes more financial sense.

Determining the right sump pump size for your basement involves several calculations that we perform during our site visits. We measure your basement's square footage, ceiling height, and assess how quickly water typically enters during heavy rains. The pump's horsepower and gallons-per-minute capacity must match your specific drainage needs.

For most residential basements in the Norcross area, we install pumps ranging from 1/3 horsepower to 3/4 horsepower. A 1/3 HP pump typically handles basements up to 1,500 square feet with moderate water intrusion, while larger basements or those with significant water issues may require 1/2 HP or 3/4 HP models. We also consider the vertical lift required – how far the pump must push water up and out through your discharge pipe.

Clay soil common in our region can create unique drainage challenges that affect sizing decisions. We evaluate your home's specific conditions, including lot grading, foundation type, and local water table levels, to recommend the most appropriate pump size for reliable protection.

Standard sump pumps rely on electrical power and will not operate during outages, which is precisely when you might need them most during severe storms. We offer several solutions to address this critical vulnerability that many Norcross homeowners face.

Battery backup sump pumps are our most popular solution. These systems automatically activate when the primary pump loses power or fails. The backup pump operates on a 12-volt marine battery and can typically run for 5-8 hours depending on how frequently it cycles. We install battery backup systems that include automatic charging and testing features to ensure readiness when needed.

Water-powered backup pumps represent another option, using your home's water pressure to operate a pump mechanism. These don't require electricity or batteries but do increase your water bill during operation. For homeowners seeking maximum protection, we sometimes recommend generator-powered systems, though these require more substantial investment and maintenance. We help you evaluate which backup solution best fits your budget, basement size, and typical power outage duration in your area.

We recommend testing your sump pump every three to four months, with more frequent checks during Georgia's heavy rain seasons in spring and summer. Testing involves pouring water into the sump pit until the float rises and triggers the pump. We watch for proper activation, listen for unusual noises, and verify that water discharges properly through the exit pipe.

Annual professional maintenance should include cleaning the pump and pit, inspecting the float switch mechanism, checking electrical connections, and testing the backup power source if applicable. We also examine the discharge line for clogs or damage, particularly after winter freezes that can affect outdoor portions of the system.

Between professional visits, homeowners should keep the sump pit clear of debris and ensure the area around the pump remains accessible. We recommend testing your pump before severe weather hits, as this is when you'll depend on it most. If you notice slower activation, unusual sounds, or visible rust and corrosion, contact us immediately. Regular maintenance prevents emergency failures and extends your pump's operational life, protecting your basement investment year-round.