A sump pump and an ejector pump both move unwanted water away from a building, but they’re built for different plumbing setups and water sources. Understanding the differences can help homeowners pick the right equipment and reduce the risk of basement flooding or drainage backups.

At a glance: a sump pump is commonly used for water that collects in a lowest point (like a basement sump pit), while an ejector pump is typically used when water must be lifted from a higher or enclosed drain location up to where it can discharge.

Where the water comes from

In most homes, a sump pump handles groundwater seepage, stormwater infiltration, or condensation that accumulates below-grade and collects in a dedicated sump basin (pit). An ejector pump is often installed in a separate basin or receiving tank designed to collect wastewater or drainage that would otherwise ... Read more »

Spring in Illinois can bring intense storms and rapid rises in local waterways, increasing the risk of basement flooding. While you can’t control the weather, you can prepare your home so water has fewer ways to enter and less ability to cause lasting damage.

Start by assessing your specific risk. If your basement has flooded in past years, note where water appears first—around floor drains, sump pits, utility penetrations, or cracks near the foundation. That “pattern” will guide which fixes deliver the biggest payoff.

Inspect drainage, pumps, and water pathways

If you have a sump pump, test it before heavy rain arrives. Confirm the float switch activates properly, the discharge line is clear, and the pump can expel water away from the foundation. If your home has a battery backup or water-powered backup system, verify it’s functional and that batteries are charged.

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A sudden banging or thudding in your walls when you turn off a tap, flush a toilet, or close a valve is usually water hammer. It’s not random: it happens when moving water is forced to stop or change direction quickly, creating a pressure surge that travels through your plumbing like a shockwave.

While the noise is often the first thing homeowners notice, repeated water hammer can stress joints, loosen fittings, and contribute to leaks over time. Understanding what causes it—and addressing the underlying plumbing behavior—can reduce both sound and risk.

What causes water hammer?

Water hammer occurs when water flow is interrupted suddenly. For example, a faucet may close instantly, or a toilet fill valve may stop water abruptly. The flowing water’s momentum has to go somewhere; when it’s stopped too quickly, pressure spikes form. Those spikes rebound through the sys ... Read more »

Plumbing doesn’t usually fail all at once—especially in older homes. Instead, issues tend to build gradually, often showing up as reduced water pressure, recurring leaks, rusty discoloration, or uneven hot and cold temperatures. For homeowners facing persistent problems, repiping can be the more cost-effective long-term solution than repeated patch repairs.

Common signs it’s time to repipe

If you’re still deciding between localized fixes and a full replacement, these are the most reliable indicators that the plumbing system may have reached the end of its useful life.

1) Rusty or discolored water—Frequent orange/brown water, especially after the system has been unused, often points to internal pipe corrosion. Even if you run the tap, the issue may return as corrosion continues.

2) Low water pressure and clogged fixtures&mdash ... Read more »