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Basins are more than just over sized looking garbage cans. They’re your pump’s home. In your home you probably have nice drapes, maybe a trophy of that really big fish you caught last summer at the lake, and that leather couch in the living room that has somehow outlasted two cars. Similarly, a basin is made up of several elements that make your pump run efficiently and feel at home. These heavy duty containers are commonly constructed of fiberglass or high grade plastic. They serve a variety of system types (simplex or duplex), sizes and applications. Some basins operate with multiple types of pumps while others are designed to be paired with a specific pump. The first and most important step in selecting a basin is making sure it’s fitted for your pump’s size. For instance, a basin that is too small could fill up rapidly and contribute to improper pump cycling. If the pump turns on and off repeatedly, it will quickly burn out. Longer downtime between pump cycles keeps the pump cooler and results in longer life. With that in mind, let’s explore the inner workings of what goes on inside your basin. Water enters the basin from the inlet. This is the opening located on the side of the basin. If your pump is automatic, once the basin starts to fill with water the float switch will raise which in turn will switch the pump on. Once the pump is on, the water will be pumped out of your system and exit through the discharge. A check valve should be located on your discharge line. The check valve keeps water from returning into the basin, preventing back flow. Back flow can result in wastewater coming up through your sinks, shower drains, and toilets. A pump without a check valve can also suffer from short cycling. The access cover is the lid of the basin. The biggest benefit of having a lid on your basin is unquestionably keeping that not-so-fresh smelling wastewater inside the basin instead of permeating through your basement. On the access cover there should be an opening for a vent, to regularize pressure within the basin, and another opening for the pump’s power cord. Some basins come in with an alarm fitted on them as well. The alarm’s purpose is to give owners advanced warning on any emergencies with their pump. Basins are integral in providing an environment in which your pump can work at an optimal rate. Pumpproducts.com sells a variety of basins from the most trusted brands in the industry.