Final answer:
The sump for a sump pump should extend at least 18 to 24 inches below the basement floor for effective water removal. Sump pumps vary in their water draining rate, and the design must consider hydraulic pressure based on factors like the pump's rate, output pressure, hose diameter, and the vertical distance the water is lifted.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question is related to the specifications required for a sump pump installation, particularly the depth that a sump should extend below the basement floor to effectively remove accumulated water. Although the question does not provide a specific depth measurement, standard practice usually requires the sump pit to be at least 18 to 24 inches below the bottom of the basement floor. This depth allows enough space for the pump to be installed and accommodate water inflow without overflowing before the pump activates. It also provides a necessary buffer zone which prevents the sump pump from cycling too frequently.
The rate at which a sump pump drains water can vary depending on the model and power of the pump. The provided example mentions a rate of 0.750 L/s and an output pressure of 3.00 × 105 N/m². These parameters are important to ensure that the pump can effectively move water through the discharge hose and overcome any vertical distance, the height water needs to be lifted, which affects the pressure required at the pump's outlet.
It is also important to consider the height of the water outlet and the diameter of the hose as these factors influence the hydraulic pressure in the system and the efficiency of the sump pump's performance. Engineers and builders must ensure that the sump pump system is designed to handle the worst-case scenario of water accumulation, taking into account factors like the house's location below the water table and potential for heavy rains or flooding.