SUMP DRAINAGE SYSTEM or SUMP

  1. A pit, tank, or basin that receives overflow water and is located below the normal grade of the disposal system.  A sump must be emptied by mechanical means.  Typically a sump tank is built in a situation where no other drainage is possible, so all the draining water is directed to the sump tank and then, from there, pumped to a discharge pipe that will drain to the street.  This drainage system usually has a float switch (see FLOAT SWITCH).  Newer pumps come with a battery backup, in case of power failure.
  2. Pit or large plastic bucket/barrel inside the home designed to collect ground water from a perimeter drain system.