Do I Need a Sump Pump?
A sump pump 1 is generally considered a good thing to have in your home, whether you have experienced water entering your basement before. Sump pumps are always recommended for homes in areas of heavy rainfall and flood zones. They are also recommended if you live at the bottom of a hill or valley.
Even if water has not entered your basement in the past, it may do so in the future. Climate change may bring storms that can send water into your home, and once water finds its way in once, it will do so again. Having a sump pump ready to go means you do not experience flooding or water damage if this happens.
Sump Pump Cost by Type
Two main types of sump pumps are available: pedestal and submersible, ranging from $80 to $1,000. Many homeowners wonder what the benefits are of a pedestal versus a submersible system. The answer depends on each property’s requirements and structural design. A pedestal unit is made of two parts. The motor sits above the pit, while the pump sits inside. A submersible pump sits in a waterproof casing in the sump pit’s water. Both come in multiple sizes and handle different levels of water, but the biggest factor in choosing which pump to use is the size of your basement and the average cost.
| Type | Pump Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Pedestal | $80 - $800 |
| Submersible | $90 - $1,000 |
Pedestal Sump Pump Prices
On average, a pedestal sump pump costs $80 to $800 for materials. It includes a motor sitting on top of a pedestal with the pump in the water below. The pump and hose system draws water up and out to avoid water damage and flooding. The moderately powered motor can handle areas with occasional minor flooding, but these systems do not typically handle as much water as a submersible. They come in plastic and cast iron, with cast iron lasting longer. One of the main advantages is that the raised pedestal makes them easier and more affordable to service. However, the pedestal may get in the way of major work in the basement, such as moving things or finishing renovations. The motor’s longevity is another positive. It may last up to 30 years when installed properly, but it is louder than a submersible because the motor is above the pit.
Submersible Sump Pump Cost
Submersible sump pumps are slightly more expensive than pedestal pumps, with an average cost of $90 to $1,000 for the pump. This unit is submerged rather than readily accessible above the ground. These pumps are submerged and sealed to prevent water from damaging the motor. The motor and pump make the unit, which has greater power for areas with more flooding than pedestal options. Another advantage is that they are much quieter due to their position beneath the surface. They are not as prone to clogging as pedestals but are more costly to repair, with potential service fees for working on the plumbing and flooring. They also do not last as long, most around 5 to 15 years, depending on the unit, maintenance, and flooding conditions.
Sump Pump Price by Power Type
Beyond the pump’s style, it can also be a primary or secondary backup system. All sump pumps run on electricity, and most require at least one dedicated outlet to plug into nearby. However, if you do not have a generator for backup power during a power outage, you are at risk of a flood if your pump does not have a backup system.
There are two ways to back up a primary sump pump. The first is to purchase a battery backup. The battery charges off the same electrical outlet that powers the pump and turns on when the power is out. The second system uses a water-powered pump as the secondary or combination pump. Many homeowners use a backup system if they do not already have a generator or other power backup. Below are the average costs for each system - primary electric, water-powered backup, battery backup, and combination electric and water backup.
| Power Type | Pump Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Primary / Electric | $80 - $1,000 |
| Battery Backup | $150 - $2,000 |
| Water-Powered Backup | $200 - $900 |
| Combination | $500 - $1,500 |
Primary Electric Sump Pump Price
The cost of a primary sump pump powered by electricity ranges from $80 to $1,000. This is the most common sump pump consisting of a motor and pump. It is separate, like in a pedestal or combined in a submersible. These pumps come with a power cord and plug into a standard electrical outlet. They can have many sizes and horsepower and can be simple, switching on automatically, or having a power panel that lets you test the unit, run it manually, and check that it is functioning. You can always add a battery backup system to these pumps.
Battery Sump Pump Cost
Adding battery backup to a sump pump costs $150 to $250, while the cost of a sump pump with built-in battery backup ranges from $150 to $2,000. Sump pump batteries are a good choice for homeowners without a generator and who cannot use a water-based backup pump system. The battery sits outside the pit in a watertight casing. It is charged by the same power that runs the pump. Newer battery backup systems have a panel that shows when the battery is charging versus at full power. Batteries only have a run span of 7 to 14 hours, depending on the size, so they are not ideal for prolonged outages, but they can offer peace of mind during short periods.
Water-Powered Sump Pump Cost
Water-powered sump pumps cost $200 to $900. These are secondary backup pumps designed for an outage. They are more costly and require a municipal water supply connection. They use pressure from the supply to create a vacuum that pushes the water out of your pump. They are not as powerful as electric-driven systems but can be sufficient for many homes. They are quieter than traditional pumps without a motor and do not wear out as quickly. They can work for longer than a battery system. They are often installed alongside a traditional pump.
Combination Sump Pump Price
A combination sump pump costs $500 to $1,500. These systems use electricity and water. This means you must be connected to the municipal water supply for them to work. These are much larger and fully submersible pumps than the standard systems. They require a larger-than-average pit and complex installation, making the project more costly. However, if you lose power frequently and see flooding in your area, this system can help keep your basement dry better than many other setups.
New Sump Pump Cost by Gallons per Hour
The average costs of sump pumps depend on the size and range from $80 to $1,000 depending on the number of gallons per hour they output, among other things. One of the main considerations of these systems is gallons per hour (GPH). This measurement tells you about the size, capacity, and how much water it can effectively pump per hour. Small utility pumps may move around 1,800 GPH, while fully sized pumps designed for heavy use may move 10,000 GPH or more. Understanding this number is important so that you can consider the options with the capacity to handle your requirements. If you live somewhere with low flood risk, you do not necessarily need one with the same GPH as a homeowner who lives in a valley that floods often. A system that runs 3,000 GPH accommodates much less water than a 10,000 GPH unit, so it is better suited to dry regions or hilltops with minimal flooding risk. The volume of rainfall and snow you get in your area and the design of your plumbing pipes factor into your purchase. If you have an older pipe network, a lower GPH should suffice, whereas long narrow pipes that turn often may need extra strength.
Larger pumps are not always the most expensive. Small utility pumps may actually cost more than mid-range sizes because mid-range pumps are more common, come in more options, and are competitive in pricing. Small utility pumps are also submersible and frequently cast iron, raising costs. Below are the average costs for differently sized pumps.
| Gallons per Hour | Pump Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| 1,800 GPH | $125 - $300 |
| 2,400 GPH | $250 - $800 |
| 3,000 GPH | $80 - $350 |
| 4,200 GPH | $100 - $500 |
| 5,000 GPH | $150 - $550 |
| 10,000 GPH | $300 - $1,000 |
Sump Pump Cost by Motor Horsepower
Sump pump motors have different power levels, measured in HP and range from $100 to $500. Homeowners and plumbers should do their research to better understand their horsepower requirements, which depend on the basement size, home square footage, and the frequency of water problems and plumbing issues. For someone who lives in a relatively dry area or hilltop with minimal flooding concerns, a lower horsepower should suffice, while large homes in the middle of a flood zone may need more horsepower. The size of your drainage pipes may also impact horsepower. Smaller pipes require more force, so a smaller outlet or drain needs a bigger motor, while larger pipes can move the same amount of water with less horsepower.
It is necessary to have the appropriate amount of horsepower so that the system can keep up with the water levels and avoid backups and malfunctions. Most people need between ⅓ and ¾ HP to power their pumps. Small utility pumps have smaller motors available, and larger commercial pumps are also an option for areas with very large pits and high water tables. This table shows some of the most popular horsepower ratings and the average cost for a submersible sump pump of that size. Each unit and home have unique requirements, and the total capacity depends on its type, power source, design, and brand. Costs are typically relevant to the size, so all other things being equal, a ½ HP sump pump cost is lower than a 1 HP sump pump cost or a 2 HP sump pump cost. The average costs for pedestal and submersible pumps are outlined below.
| Horsepower (HP) | Cost (Materials Only) |
|---|
| ¼ HP | $50 - $200 |
| ⅓ HP | $90 - $250 |
| ½ HP | $160 - $400 |
| ¾ HP | $200 - $500 |
| 1 HP | $200 - $800 |
| 2 HP | $200 - $2,000 |
| 3 HP | $1,500 - $2,500 |
Sump Pump Price by Material
Your sump pump’s material also impacts the size. Pumps can be constructed using three materials, which may be more suitable for certain situations and vary from $50 to $1,000 depending on the size and other features. Plastic, cast iron, and stainless steel are the most common materials. Of these, plastic is the least expensive and least durable. It is more likely to crack and need repairs. Cast iron is more popular because it is much more durable and lasts considerably longer. Most cast iron pumps are painted to avoid rust, but they eventually corrode. Cast iron pumps tend to run cooler, meaning they are more reliable than stainless steel. Stainless steel pumps do not corrode, but they do not do well in the heat, and their output drops once they heat up. The table below highlights the average cost for a submersible system of that material, not including installation.
| Material | Submersible Pump Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Plastic | $50 - $300 |
| Cast Iron | $100 - $800 |
| Stainless Steel | $150 - $1,000 |
Average Cost of Sump Pumps by Brand
Several leading sump pump brands are available on the market. The brand may impact the unit’s quality, type, and capabilities. Something else to consider is that brands may offer differing levels of support for installation, maintenance, and warranty. Some brands, such as Everbilt and Superior, are less expensive but may not provide the same assistance with maintenance and warranty. Brands like TripleSafe and PitBoss offer the most options, including pit covers, built-in backup systems, and system monitors, which can make the PitBoss or TripleSafe sump pump costs higher than others. Most brands offer different pump levels and materials, so a Wayne sump pump cost varies based on whether you choose plastic, cast iron, or stainless steel and by the size. Some companies offer different materials, such as Flotec, which offers zinc casings. Zoeller also offers bronze for their switches and casings, impacting the Zoeller sump pump costs, depending on the unit. Looking at the average cost by brand is very important. Here are some of the leading brands and the average cost for a new submersible unit.
| Brand | Pump Cost (Unit Only) |
|---|
| Everbilt | $50 - $300 |
| Superior | $65 - $250 |
| WaterAce | $100 - $200 |
| FloTec | $100 - $350 |
| Little Giant | $150 - $350 |
| Liberty | $150 - $500 |
| Watchdog | $200 - $500 |
| Wayne | $200 - $1,500 |
| Zoeller | $200 - $1,700 |
| TripleSafe | $500 - $1,800 |
| PitBoss | $550 - $1,550 |
Labor Cost to Install a Sump Pump
Labor costs for a sump pump range from $300 to $4,000, depending on whether there is a pit and the drainage type. The cost of installing a discharge line is included in the cost and is necessary for any installation. Putting in a standard pedestal system is easier than a submersible but requires a pit and a drain. Your plumbing professional may also help source the sump pump to ensure an accurate fit if you have an existing pit. Otherwise, they need to enlarge your pit or dig a new one. Depending on the company, they may give you a deal if you purchase your unit from them. Plumbers typically charge between $75 and $150 per hour for these installations, but many people find that having a basement waterproofing company do the work may give you better results because they specialize in this project. The final amount depends on the project’s complexity. Every company is different, so it is important to check with them on their processes and recommendations.
The floor type for the pump is also an important factor and affects labor costs. The cost to bury the discharge pipe ranges from $250 to $2,000, depending on the job’s difficulty. You can also extend your discharge pipe up above ground, which can be less expensive, around $150 to $400 for installation, because no digging is necessary. Total costs depend on the basement floor type you have. It is easier to dig through dirt or gravel, but with a jackhammer and some time, you can make a pit in a concrete foundation. In most cases, after the liner is dropped in, the surrounding area can be refilled with new concrete for a finished appearance.
If you need a drain system to carry water to the pump, this has additional costs. The most common systems are French drains, which lead to the pit. This costs $2,800 to $6,500 if you do not already have one installed.
Sump Pump Basin Installation
Your sump pump sits inside a well called the sump pit. Water flows into the pit through a French drain 2 system, a dry basin system, or on its own from the surrounding area. The pump is activated once water in the pit reaches a certain level, triggering it to empty. The average cost of a basin installation or installing a sump pump pit is $500 to $1,200 to dig the pit. You have additional costs to add a liner, usually plastic, to the pit to seal it. If there is already a basin in your house, you do not need to install a new one or replace the old one unless your home is older. In older homes, the pits may be too small to accommodate newer pumps, particularly those with exterior floats. The installation process for the basin includes drilling a pit for the water. Before this can begin, the plumber must identify the lowest level in the house as a suitable spot for the basin. Depending on the flooring surface in the basement, this may require a jackhammer and other drilling equipment. The plumber must clear the dirt to create the basin and connect it with the drainage and new system. With almost every unit, you need to install a basin. The only models that do not require its inclusion are pumps called floor suckers, which suck the water directly off the floor and are a rarely used option.
Average Cost of Sump Pumps by Location
Sump pumps are almost always installed in the basement or crawl space. While it is more common to install them in the basement, not all homes have one, and some homeowners may choose a crawl space installation or to install them on a slab, such as in a garage, lower-level bedroom, or outdoors. Installation costs in any of these places are very similar, between $650 and $2,000, including the cost of installation. However, costs are higher if you need to install a drainage system. Basement flooring may require slightly more labor than the dirt of a crawl space. The average costs depending on the location are highlighted in the table below.
| Location | Unit Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Crawl Space | $650 - $1,500 |
| Garage | $800 - $1,800 |
| Basement | $800 - $2,000 |
| Outdoor | $900 - $1,400 |
| Bedroom | $900 - $2,200 |
Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation Cost
For straightforward installations, the average prices of crawl space projects are very similar to basement installations. Sump pumps in a crawl space cost $650 to $1,500. For houses without a traditional basement, it may be installed in the crawl space. This area between the first floor and the ground is usually tight, small, and cramped, but it can be a good place to put it away from the living area. The main difference between basement and crawl space systems is that a crawl space one may be easier to install if it just needs to be positioned in soft dirt. The small size of crawl spaces means it may take more time and careful planning to complete the installation. Due to the height, these installations are almost always submersible.
Sump Pump in a Garage
Installing a sump pump in your garage costs from $800 to $1,800. The cost is the same as installing one in the basement because the areas and installation processes are the same. Costs are on the lower end if you have a dirt garage floor and costs more if concrete has to be removed. When installing a sump pump in the garage, the location is important. It must be installed a minimum of 10” from the garage walls to ensure it is clear from the foundation and footers. It should be a safe distance from cars and close enough to easily plug into a power source without an extension cord. Submersible and pedestal pumps can be found in the garage, depending on how the space is used.
Basement Sump Pump Installation Cost
The average cost for installing a sump pump in the basement is between $800 and $2,000, depending on the job complexity and how much work has to be done. Most are installed in basements because they must be positioned at the lowest point in the house to collect and distribute water adequately to prevent flooding issues. As the most common spot to install these systems, the basement typically connects to the plumbing system and has space for a pedestal or submersible option. Both are common, depending on the area of the basement. The installation process in the basement includes creating the sump pit if it is not there already and connecting the unit with the pipes.
Outdoor Sump Pump Installation Cost
Backyard sump pump costs range from $900 to $1,400. They are a good investment if you have a yard that sees heavy flooding. Too much water can ruin landscaping, cause soil shifting, and lead to an increase in bugs. Outdoor units cost more to install than most other units because they typically are more costly pumps, needing to withstand more extremes in temperatures than indoor models. They also need to be submersible and have a cover to keep animals out.
Sump Pump in a Bedroom
If you have a bedroom located in your basement, expect to pay $900 to $2,200 to install a sump pump. They are slightly more expensive than installing a system in the unfinished area of your basement because the flooring must be removed to make space for the unit. Your installer may position the drain pipe through an egress window or the bedroom door, depending on the setup. They are important in finished areas of the basement, especially those with carpet, leading to mold and mildew if they become wet. Most bedroom units are submersible with a cover to keep them quiet and out of sight.
Internal vs External Float
Another consideration you need to make surrounding your sump pump is whether it has an internal or external float. Both types have similar costs for submersible units. However, they look and operate differently. The float tells the sump pump to turn on. Like a toilet tank float, it rises with the water. When it reaches a certain level, the sump pump activates. An external float is on the outside, while an internal unit has the float inside.
External floats are easy to access for repairs or maintenance. However, they can make the unit larger and more difficult to fit into a small pit. They can also get caught on the edges of the pit or debris, causing the unit to malfunction or stop working.
Internal floats are smaller and protected from debris. This can make them more reliable but also makes them more difficult to access for repairs or maintenance.
Sump Pump Replacement Cost
Homeowners pay between $350 and $1,000 to replace a sump pump. The cost includes the price of the new sump pump and the labor. This process takes one to three hours, depending on the amount of work. The good news about replacing this system is plumbers usually do not need to do as much prep work as with an entirely new installation. That is because the basin and pipework should already be in place. With the reservoir and drainage system ready to be used again, replacement costs are lower than the prices for new installations. Older homes with smaller basins need to upgrade, raising installation costs.
A few signs let you know you need a new pump, including a strong foul odor, excessive noise, or standing water in your home. Your unit smoking, the float continuously catching and needing to be released, and sudden failure are potential outcomes for older units. If your existing unit is constantly needing repairs and only works for a short while before requiring maintenance, it may be time for a replacement. Something else to consider is your system’s age. If you live in an older home with a unit that has been in use for 20 or 30 years, it may be nearing the time for replacement.
Sump Pump Battery Backup Cost
In a power outage, a sump pump may stop working. A battery-powered backup costs $150 to $2,000, depending on the brand and quality. It can be easily installed in an emergency to start the system working again to remove excess water. Installing a battery backup is a good option for homeowners who live in an area where frequent power outages accompany storms or areas where it takes longer to restore power when it goes out, such as rural areas.
Your sump pump cannot remove water without power, making it ineffective if the rain from a storm gets inside. The only drawback to having a battery backup installed is the added cost. For some homeowners, the cost is necessary to prevent significant water damage during a storm.
Sump Pump Inspection Cost
The average cost of an inspection is between $50 and $350, depending on your system’s complexity. Homeowners have their sump pump inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional plumber or home inspector. They test the unit to see how well it pumps water and how quickly it starts draining after the system is engaged. They pay attention to signs of issues, such as worn or malfunctioning components. An inspection should cover all parts, from the liner and float switch to the check valve and floor drain. During the inspection, the inspector should comment on signs of wear, unusual odors, or operational issues.
Sump Pump Maintenance Cost
The average cost for professional maintenance by an experienced plumber is $100 to $300. The cleaning cost is often included in the maintenance price. It involves your professional spraying off loose debris, rinsing the pump, checking the check valve, and vacuuming the remaining water in your pit. You may need to budget around $200 to $500 to fix additional repairs if they are found. Homeowners should conduct routine maintenance every three to four months, with a comprehensive yearly check to properly maintain a sump pump. Regular maintenance is worthwhile because it keeps the unit in good condition so they can last longer. You may want to do a test every once in a while to see if the pedestal is still upright with a freely floating ball, indicating everything is in working order. A submersible pump is harder for homeowners to maintain due to its position below the surface. It is a good idea to call in a professional at least annually, if not quarterly, for a quick check. Keep an eye out for warning signs that maintenance needs to be performed, such as failure to properly run or drain, excessive operation even when there is no water to be pumped, continuous loud noises, and foul smells.
Sump Pump Insurance Cost
Like many aspects of your home, sump pumps can be insured. This insurance can cover the cost of repairs, replacements, and backup systems, depending on the policy and insurance provider. Some home insurance plans include this coverage. However, some do not. Do your research and ask your insurance provider any questions you may have. Total system failure may not be covered by insurance. Some homeowners add a rider to their policy. The average cost of this insurance ranges from $50 to $250 on top of your annual premium for homeowners insurance.
Average Cost to Run a Sump Pump
Running a sump pump has different costs depending on whether it is in standby mode or actively pumping water. During the dry season, your sump pump may only consume 5 to 20 kWh each month, depending on the size and age. At an average cost of $0.1059 per kWh in the U.S., this means that when the pump is plugged in and not running, it costs you $0.55 to $2.15 a month. When the pump is running, it can have an energy draw of 800 to 1,050 watts while pumping and a bigger draw of 13,000 to 41,000 watts to start. So, running the pump for one hour costs $1.50 to $4.30 for the first hour it runs and $0.08 to $0.15 per hour for each additional hour. Running the pump continuously 24 hours a day for an entire month costs $58 to $110. This is an unlikely scenario for many people, however. In most circumstances, your pump may run for a few hours at a time and only in the wettest months. The rest of the time, it has very low monthly costs.
| Pump Status | Cost per Hour | Cost per Month |
|---|
| Standby | $0.007 - $0.03 | $0.55 - $2.15 |
| Running (1 Hour / Day) | $1.50 - $4.30 | $45 - $130 |
| Running Continuously | $0.08 - $0.15 | $58 - $110 |
How Many Sump Pumps Do I Need?
In most cases, a homeowner only needs one sump pump. Multiple setups are generally reserved for larger commercial buildings and public establishments. However, some situations require a homeowner to have more than one. This may be if you live in an area that loses power frequently and you wish to install a backup water-powered pump or if you have a large home over 4,000 sq.ft. or live in a flood zone. While one system is normally sufficient, some homeowners prefer the peace of mind of having two, especially if the size of the house or the square footage of the basement is larger than average.
Another consideration for multiple units is if the volume of water is higher due to the geographical location. Homeowners who live in areas with a lot of rain may need a main system and a backup. If you live in an area prone to flooding or store valuables in the basement, you may want to install two units. Many contractors offer a discount when installing two systems at once. If you use two electric-powered pumps, invest in battery backups to ensure they keep working in an outage.
Pros and Cons
Homeowners who have experienced water in their basements or live in areas with heavy flooding likely have considered installing a sump pump. Still, they may not know all the pros and cons of the decision.
The main pro is that it effectively removes water from your basement, reducing the risk of water damage and chronic moisture that causes mold and mildew. They actively and effectively protect your basement from water versus the alternatives, such as waterproof coatings. Waterproof coatings may not fully keep water out, which may lead to moisture building up in the basement.
There are a few drawbacks. The first is they require electricity. This could mean they stop working if a storm knocks out power unless you have a generator. A sump pit needs to be dug for the system to work. If you have radon 3 in the soil or water below your home, a sump pump may require you to update your radon mitigation system because it will expose your home to the soil and water. These systems cost $650 to $2,850.
Sump Pump vs Sewage Pump
While sump pumps and sewage pumps have similar-sounding names, these two devices work in very different ways. A sump pump is designed to remove water from your home. It is good for heavy amounts of rainwater or homes in a flood zone.
A sewage pump or an ejector pump is designed for basement bathrooms where the wastewater needs help reaching the septic tank or main sewer line. Sewage pumps can handle solid waste, waste particles, and water. Sump pumps are only designed to handle water and not solid particles. In some cases, an ejector pump may use a pit like a sump pump, but it can be installed behind the basement bathroom plumbing.
An ejector pump is typically less expensive to install than a sump pump, but they can have overlapping costs depending on the size and location. Below are the average costs of both pumps.
| Pump Type | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Sewage Pump | $600 - $1,800 |
| Sump Pump | $800 - $2,000 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Filter
A sump pump filter can help keep smaller debris and particles from entering the system and potentially causing damage. Plumbers recommend using filters to protect the integrity of the pump and help it last for longer. It’s a relatively easy way to try and get the most use out of your system. These filters average $15 to $35.
Water Alarm
A sump pump alarm monitors the water levels in your house and gives a warning when the levels are in danger of triggering the system. They are typically installed by the pump or a tub or sink and cost $15 to $30 each. More advanced systems can cost up to $100.
Monitoring System
Some newer sump pumps have a monitoring system. This lets you see the status of the pump and battery at a glance, including letting you know if the battery is charged or charging and if the pump is operational. You can contract with your installation company to connect to the monitoring system and get a detailed report of how much power the system used over the previous month and how much water it pumped out. These systems add $300 to $500 to the cost of a standard installation and may come standard with elaborate systems.
Cover
You can purchase a cover for the top of your sump pit in some cases. The cover helps keep the motor quiet. It also helps prevent debris from falling into the pit, which can damage the unit. Covers can come standard with some high-end systems or purchased for $50 to $250 depending on the system size.
Drains
Your sump pump can be set up to drain the backwash from your water-softening system. This is done by running lines from the water softener 4 tanks to the pump. It can be set up when the softening system is set up or when the pump is set up. This costs $20 to $40.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Cold areas. In cold areas, sump pumps are susceptible to freezing during winter, causing major damage and leading to flooding. To prevent this, remove the outside extension hose when the weather drops below freezing. You should regularly check the discharge hose throughout the winter to ensure it is free of ice and debris.
- DIY. You can install your own system, saving on labor expenses. Only experienced and knowledgeable DIY-ers should attempt this project.
- Geographical area. The area your home is located in can impact your pump’s size and type. If your home is located at the bottom of a hill or valley or in a flood zone, you need a larger pump than if your home is located near the top of a hill.
- Pump repair. If the pump is making a lot of noise, begins to smell of mold or mildew, has started smoking, or has stopped working, it may need to be repaired. Repairs can often be carried out by the installer. The average repair cost is between $150 and $500.
- Permits. You do not need permits from the city to install a sump pump unless the installation includes electrical work or changes to the home’s structure.
- Reserve pumps. In cases where a homeowner is experiencing substantial flooding, one pump may not be enough to stay on top of the water. Multiple systems may be necessary. Reserve pumps can be placed close to the original unit or on the other side and pick up the slack if the original pump shuts down or there is too much water to process. Reserve pumps can also be used as backup pumps when the power goes out if you use a battery-operated or water-powered pump.
FAQs
- How do you build a sump pit?
A sump pit is literally a hole just large enough to hold the pump with a plastic lining. This can be dug by hand with a shovel or with a tool. A trench is dug around the perimeter of the home and is usually laid with pipe to drain into the pit. They are usually built in the basement at the lowest level of the home, but they may also be installed in crawl spaces.
- How does a sump pump work?
They work by detecting a preset water level in their pit or pedestal. When water reaches this height, they pull the water up out of the pit and pump it out through a pipe or hose to an area directed outside of the house. The water is pumped to an outside drainage area to prevent flooding and water damage within the home.
- What is a check valve on a sump pump?
Check valves prevent water from returning into the pit after it has been pumped out. This prevents the pump from simply recycling the same water over and over again. Maintenance includes inspecting the check valve to ensure it is in full functioning order with the rest of the system. Sometimes, the check valve may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump?
A handyman is likely qualified to install one, provided that the trench has been dug. If pipes need to be laid or fit, a plumber may be necessary. Keep in mind extra labor may be required if you have tile or wood flooring in the basement that needs to be removed and repaired in a small section to install a submersible unit.
- How do you install a sump pump?
The system itself is easy to install. First, it is lowered into the pit. A pipe or hose is attached and runs several feet up where it is vented out of the house. In a home without a pit, one needs to be dug. A trench is made to direct the water to this location. Digging a pit can add to the installation costs. Fixing existing plumbing and/or flooring to ensure a proper setup also affects the total bill.
- How long do sump pumps last on average?
It can last anywhere from 5 to 30 years, depending on whether it is a submersible or a pedestal pump. The latter tend to last longer than submersible options, around 15 to 30 years, while 5 to 15 years is the expected timeline for a submersible pump before it needs replacing. Maintenance and exposure to significant flooding impact how long it lasts.
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