In an ideal world, our houses are designed to keep us high and dry--well away from the damaging effects of ground water. But life isn't always ideal. Flooding caused by severe climate is becoming more the norm than the exception. And even in regions where flooding doesn't occur, houses are often sited in a manner that does not protect their crawl spaces and basements from being flooded by rain and snow melt runoff.

When the ground becomes saturated, water flows across the surface toward any low spot. And, to make things worse, ground water pressure builds, forcing ground water towards any path of little resistance. If the water finds cracks and fissures in your home's foundation walls or basement floors, it easily seeps in to fill your basement.

A good sump pump system is a necessity where flooding can occur. A sump pump, which is powered by electricity, automatically pumps out any water that begins to collect in the basement or other low areas. Many types are manufactured, including models that are intended to be fully submerged or that have back-up power systems that can take over in the likely event of a power failure.

The articles listed below will help you make informed choices about sump pumps. In addition, you will find other information that will guide you through keeping your home dry and comfortable year-round.