Sump pumps
In parts of Metro Vancouver a sump pump isn't optional equipment — it's the only thing between the water table and your basement. Richmond, Queensborough, and the low-lying parts of New Westminster and Burnaby all sit on ground where the pump runs regularly through the wet months.
When yours needs attention
It runs constantly, or cycles on and off rapidly · It's noisy, grinding or vibrating · It doesn't start when the pit fills · There's water in the basement despite the pump running · It's over 7–10 years old · It has no backup and you've never tested it
Test it before the rain, not during
Pour a bucket of water into the pit. The float should rise, the pump should start, the water should clear, and it should shut off. If any of those four doesn't happen, call before November.
Backup systems
The most common way a sump pump fails is the power going out during exactly the storm that needs it. Two options: a battery backup pump that runs independently for several hours, or a water-powered backup with no battery to maintain where municipal pressure allows. In a high-water-table property, we'd call a backup close to essential rather than an upsell.
What we do
Assess the pit, flow rate and discharge · Supply and install correctly sized pumps · Battery and water-powered backup installation · Discharge line repair and rerouting (a discharge that dumps next to the foundation is a common and self-defeating error) · Repairs and float switch replacement · Annual servicing
