In the arid climates of New Mexico and Arizona, rainy days may be rare, but when they hit, they hit hard. Sudden monsoon storms and seasonal downpours can overwhelm a property’s drainage system in minutes. The rain may be brief, but the damage it leaves behind, including flooded basements, cracked foundations, and ruined belongings, can last for years, making an outdoor sump pump a critical system to have at your home or property.

At B&D Industries, we help homeowners and business owners safeguard their properties with proactive, long-lasting plumbing solutions. One of the most effective ways to prevent storm-related damage is by installing an outdoor sump pump, your first line of defense when the skies open up.

What Is an Outdoor Sump Pump?

Most people are familiar with indoor sump pumps, typically found in a basement or crawl space. They are installed in a sump pit and designed to pump out water that collects in low-lying areas of a home.

An outdoor sump pump, by contrast, is installed outside the home and works to remove excess groundwater before it reaches the foundation. These systems are especially useful in regions prone to heavy rain or with poor drainage. They help prevent water from pooling around the structure, which is a leading cause of cracks, leaks, and long-term structural damage.

While indoor sump pumps protect what’s already inside, outdoor sump pumps serve as the first line of defense by intercepting water before it ever reaches the property.

Why an Outdoor Sump Pump Matters in Rainy Weather

Desert rains may be infrequent, but they’re intense when they arrive. The dry ground in places like New Mexico and Arizona absorbs water slowly, which means even a short downpour can lead to serious water accumulation, especially if your yard isn’t properly graded or your property sits in a low-lying area. In these moments, an outdoor sump pump isn’t just helpful, it’s a game-changer. Here’s what it can do for your home:

  • Protect Your Foundation: Water pooling around the foundation can lead to cracks, shifting, or settling. An outdoor sump pump helps redirect water away from critical structural areas.
  • Prevent Flooding: Especially useful for properties with yards that slope toward the home, the pump moves water away before it seeps into basements or crawlspaces.
  • Reduce Mold and Mildew: Standing water creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can damage materials and pose health risks.
  • Preserve Property Value: Water damage can significantly lower your home’s value. A well-maintained sump system shows you’re serious about long-term upkeep.
  • Fit Local Conditions: In regions prone to flash flooding and poor drainage, outdoor sump pumps are especially valuable and often essential.

Where and How to Install an Outdoor Sump Pump

If you’re considering installing an outdoor sump pump, placement is critical. Ideal locations include:

  • Areas where water naturally pools, such as near downspouts or at the base of slopes
  • Low-lying zones in your yard
  • Near retaining walls or along property lines with poor drainage

Installation involves digging a sump pit, fitting the pump, and connecting it to a discharge line that directs water away from the home to a safe drainage location. Because installation includes excavation, electrical work, and plumbing, it’s best to have a licensed professional handle the job.

Preparing for Rain: More Than Just a Pump

An outdoor sump pump is an excellent investment, but it should be part of a larger rainy weather plan. Consider the following steps:

  • Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent overflow
  • Ensure landscaping and grading move water away from the foundation
  • Inspect retaining walls and clear any blocked weep holes
  • Seal cracks in the foundation to prevent hidden leaks

These measures, combined with an outdoor sump pump, provide a strong defense against rain-related damage.

Outdoor Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

Just like any other piece of equipment, your outdoor sump pump needs regular maintenance, especially before monsoon season or major rain events. Here are a few key maintenance tips:

  • Test the system by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to ensure the pump activates and drains properly
  • Clean the pump and pit by removing debris such as leaves or mud that can clog the intake
  • Inspect the discharge line to make sure it is clear and draining to the correct location
  • Check the float switch to confirm it moves freely and activates the pump as needed
  • Consider a backup system like a battery-powered pump to ensure continued operation during power outages, which are common in heavy storms

Protect Your Property Before the Storm Hits

Whether you own a home or a commercial property, protecting your foundation should be a top priority, especially in regions where the weather can turn quickly. Installing and maintaining an outdoor sump pump is one of the smartest and most cost-effective ways to defend against water damage and preserve the value of your property.

Call B&D Industries for Your Plumbing Needs

B&D Industries, Inc. has been servicing residential, commercial and industrial properties with specialized expertise for over 70 years. During that time, we’ve grown exponentially and now reach areas of New Mexico, Arizona and New York. Our quality of services and exceptional customer experience set us apart from our competitors as we strive to change the industry one project and one relationship at a time.

When you call B&D Industries, Inc., you can rest assured that your home’s HVAC appliances, plumbing and electrical systems are in good hands. Our licensed technicians are dedicated to working with you to ensure that your home is up-to-code and functioning properly.