Performance Standard: HBR articles 12-11, 12-12   Click icon to view book   

The sump pump will perform as intended.

Warranty period: per manufacturer

Notes

The foundation design of your home includes a perimeter drain and sump pump. The perimeter drain runs around the foundation to gather water and channel it to the sump pit, or crock. When the water reaches a pre-set level, the pump comes on and pumps the water out of your home.

The Onondaga County Sanitation Code requires that the builder connect the footing drains, if any, to a sump crock. In the case of sump pump installation, sump water will be ejected by an approved method to on-site grades and swales.

The discharge of water to swales or the backyard should not be altered or changed by the homeowner. If the homeowner’s actions or negligence are the cause of a problem, the homeowner is responsible for correcting the problem.

WARNING: Article VI of the County Plumbing Regulations prohibits the diversion of surface or footing drainage water into a sanitary sewer system. Violations of this article may result in a citation and/or fine.

THE BUILDER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY RESULTING FROM OR AS A CONSEQUENCE TO ANY FLOODING OR ACCUMULATION OF WATER IN THE BASEMENT DUE TO A MALFUNCTION OF THE SUMP PUMP, A POWER OUTAGE OR ANY OTHER CAUSE.

Homeowner Operation and Maintenance

Care – Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions for use and care of your sump pump.

Continuous Operation – The pump may run often or even continuously during a heavy storm or long periods of rain. This is normal under such conditions.  Sump pumps are designed for continuous operation.

Discharge – Know where the discharge for your sump pump system is and keep the end of the drain clear of debris so that water can flow out easily.

Power Supply – The sump pump runs on electricity. If power goes off, the pump cannot operate. Storm water (not sewage) could then enter your basement. You may wish to install a back-up system, either battery or water activated, to guard against this possibility. Homeowner insurance does not usually cover damage to your property from this source; you may want to obtain a rider to cover this.  Check with your plumbing contractor to learn more about water activated pumps.

Roof Water – Ensure that roof water drains quickly away from the home to avoid circulating it through your sump pump. Keep downspout extensions in place to channel water away from your home.

Routine Check – Periodically check to confirm the pump is plugged in, the circuit breaker is on and that the pump operates. To check the operation of your sump pump, pour five gallons of water into the sump pump pit. The pump should come on and pump the water out. Follow this procedure each spring and fall.

Trees and Shrubs – Avoid planting trees or shrubs with aggressive root growth patterns near your home’s foundation. The roots can make their way into the perimeter drain and eventually clog the system.

BUILDER Limited Warranty Guidelines

The pump is warranted by the manufacturer.