What is the purpose of a sump pump?

The primary function of a sump pump is to remove excess water from basements. This device is typically located in a sump pit, which is a basin installed in the lowest part of the basement or crawl space. When water enters the pit—usually due to rain, melting snow, or groundwater accumulation—the sump pump activates to pump the water out and away from the building. This alleviates flooding and minimizes water damage, mold growth, and structural issues that can arise from prolonged exposure to moisture in basements.

While other options touch on related concerns, they do not align with the core purpose of a sump pump. For example, providing heating in the basement relates to a different type of equipment, and maintaining indoor air quality is typically addressed through ventilation and filtration systems rather than a sump pump. Draining water from the roof is handled by gutter systems and downspouts, not by a sump pump. Hence, the correct choice reflects the specific role of the sump pump in managing water accumulation and safeguarding the basement environment.