<P> Pumps may discharge to the sanitary sewer in older installations . Once considered acceptable, this practice may now violate the plumbing code or municipal bylaws, because it can overwhelm the municipal sewage treatment system . Municipalities urge homeowners to disconnect and reroute sump pump discharge away from sanitary sewers . Fines may be imposed for noncompliance . Many homeowners have inherited their sump pump configurations and do not realize that the pump discharges into the sewer . </P> <P> Usually hardwired into a home's electrical system, sump pumps may have a battery backup . The home's pressurized water supply powers some pumps, eliminating the need for electricity at the expense of using potable water, potentially making them more expensive to operate than electrical pumps and creating an additional water disposal problem . Since a sump basin may overflow if not constantly pumped, a backup system is important for cases when the main power is out for prolonged periods of time, as during a severe storm . </P> <P> There are generally two types of sump pumps--pedestal and submersible . In the case of the pedestal pump, the motor is mounted above the sump--where it is more easily serviced, but is also more conspicuous . The pump impeller is driven by a long, vertical extension shaft and the impeller is in a scroll housing in the base of the pump . The submersible pump, on the other hand, is entirely mounted inside the sump, and is specially sealed to prevent electrical short circuits . There is debate about which variety of sump pump is better . Pedestal sump pumps usually last longer (25 to 30 years) if they are installed properly and kept free of debris . They are less expensive and easier to remove . Submersible pumps will only last 5 to 15 years . They are more expensive to purchase but can take up debris without clogging . </P> <P> Sump pump systems are also utilized in industrial and commercial applications to control water table - related problems in surface soil . An artesian aquifer or periodic high water table situation can cause the ground to become unstable due to water saturation . As long as the pump functions, the surface soil will remain stable . These sumps are typically ten feet in depth or more; lined with corrugated metal pipe that contains perforations or drain holes throughout . They may include electronic control systems with visual and audible alarms and are usually covered to prevent debris and animals from falling in . </P>

Who do you call to install a sump pump