Sump Pump: Why You Need One (and How to Keep It Working)

If you’ve never had a wet basement, count yourself lucky. If you have, then you already know how fast a rainstorm or snowmelt can turn your basement into a swamp.

One of the simplest and most effective tools to prevent that? The sump pump.

Whether your home already has one or you’re wondering if you need it, this guide breaks down everything you should know — from how they work, to what to look for, to how to make sure yours doesn’t fail when you need it most.

 What Does a Sump Pump Actually Do?

A sump pump is like a bouncer for your basement — it kicks water out before it causes trouble.

It sits in a pit (the sump basin) at the lowest point of your basement floor. When water builds up around your foundation — whether from heavy rain, rising groundwater, or snowmelt — it flows into the pit. Once the water reaches a certain level, the pump turns on automatically, pushing the water out through a discharge pipe to a safe area away from your home.

It’s not complicated — but it’s incredibly important.

 Do You Really Need One?

If your basement has ever felt damp, musty, or flooded — or if your neighbors have had flooding issues — yes, you need one.

Other reasons to install a sump pump:

• You live in a low-lying area or near a ravine

• You’ve had water seep in through cracks or floor joints

• You’re adding a finished basement, rental suite, or valuable storage

• You want to qualify for city flood protection rebates

In fact, many Toronto-area homes now require a sump pump as part of waterproofing systems — especially when interior weeping tile is installed.

 Backup Systems: Don’t Skip This

The worst time for your sump pump to stop working? During a power outage in the middle of a thunderstorm — exactly when you need it most.

That’s why we always recommend a battery backup sump pump, which kicks in automatically if the main pump fails or power goes out. It gives you peace of mind when you’re not home or sleeping during a storm.

 How to Keep Your Sump Pump Working

A sump pump is only as good as its condition. Here’s how to keep yours ready:

• Test it monthly by pouring a bucket of water into the pit

• Clear out debris around the float and intake screen

• Check the discharge line to ensure it’s not frozen or blocked

• Have it inspected yearly — especially before rainy season

UPR offers full maintenance and replacement services, including high-quality sump pumps with sealed lids, alarms, and backup units.

 Need One Installed? UPR Can Help.

We’ve installed sump pump systems in hundreds of homes across Etobicoke, Mississauga, Scarborough, and North York — from retrofits in older basements to new construction waterproofing. We also help with City of Toronto subsidy applications, which can cover part of the cost.

Whether you’re upgrading, replacing, or installing one for the first time — we’ll size it properly, install it cleanly, and show you how to keep it working.

Call 647-833-6743
Book a Free Sump Pump Assessment
Serving the entire GTA with clean, code-compliant waterproofing