If you live in Sacramento, a sump pump might not be the first thing on your mind.

We’re not Seattle. We’re not Buffalo.
But as a plumber who’s helped homeowners in flooded basements — even here in California — let me tell you:

When you need a sump pump, you really need one.

Here’s what a sump pump is, what it actually does, and how to know if your home needs one (or already has one that’s failing).

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device installed in the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace — usually in a sump pit (a small hole dug into the floor).

Its job is simple:

• Collect excess water that accumulates under or around your foundation
• Pump it safely away from the house — before it floods your home

Think of it as a basement’s last line of defense.

When Do You Actually Need One?

You Have a Basement or Crawlspace Below Ground Level

If your home’s lowest floor is below the surrounding soil, water can naturally collect there — especially after storms or snowmelt.

You’ve Had Water Intrusion Before

Even a little water in the basement is a red flag.
Stains on the concrete? Musty smells? That’s how it starts.

You Live in a Flood-Prone or Poorly-Drained Area

I’ve seen neighborhoods in Sacramento where clay soil traps water around foundations.
A heavy rain — and boom: flooded crawlspace, warped flooring, mold.

Your HVAC or Water Heater Is in the Basement

Even a minor leak from a heater can lead to serious damage if there’s no pump to move water out.

You Want Peace of Mind During Heavy Rain Seasons

California might be dry most of the year — but when it rains, it pours.
And a power outage during a storm? That’s when you’ll wish you had a battery backup sump pump.

What Happens Without One

• Water seeping through foundation walls
• Mold and mildew in insulation and framing
• Damage to stored items, finished basements, or equipment
• Sagging or weakened foundation over time
• Insects, smells, and unsafe conditions

What If You Already Have One?

Great! But here’s what I see on calls all the time:

• It’s unplugged
• It’s full of mud or debris
• The float switch is stuck
• The check valve is broken
• It hasn’t been tested in years

I always recommend annual testing, especially before winter or spring rains.
Better to check it now than find out the hard way.

What We Do at Golden Valley Plumbing

We help Sacramento homeowners:

• Inspect existing sump pumps
• Install new systems from scratch (including pits and drains)
• Add battery backup systems
• Clean and test pumps for proper operation
• Prevent future flooding with smart solutions

Basement moisture? Call Golden Valley Plumbing — we’ll make sure water leaves your home before it ever becomes a problem.

Final Word

A sump pump is one of those things you don’t think about — until water’s up to your ankles.

If you’re not sure whether you need one, or you just want to make sure your current system is working right — let’s take a look.

Peace of mind is just a dry floor away.