Most buildings include a basement, and torrential rains, tropical storms and other weather conditions make them highly susceptible to flooding. That’s where the mighty sump pump comes in.

What Is a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps protect the underground levels of a building from flooding and water damage. This apparatus vacuums up water when it rises above a sea level and transfers it to outdoor areas, like a municipal storm drain.

Types of Sump Pumps

1. Primary Sump Pumps: Standard pumps found in residences.

There are two types:

• Submersible pumps that are set under water and typically have more horsepower.
• Pedestal pumps are above the water, above the sump basin.

2. Battery Back Up Sump Pumps: Incorporate a battery-backup unit in case of a power outage.

3. Sewage Pumps: Responsible for pumping out sewage waste from a building to a septic system.

4. Combination Sump Pumps: Combines a primary pump with a battery backup in one unit.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Sump Pumps

To replace a sump pump can be on the pricey side, so it’s crucial to take all the right steps and research your options first. The cost of a sump pump depends on several variables.

Type: Within standard pumps, submersible pumps are more expensive, as they have more horsepower and work through the pressure of water. Metal sump pumps tend to be more expensive than plastic ones, as they are stronger and can handle higher pressures. Plastic pumps also have lower horsepower.

Flooring: The type of floor you use for a sump pump also impacts the price of installation. The floors that house sump pumps are usually composed of cement, dirt or gravel. Dirt or gravel floors are less expensive options as they are easier to dig into. On the contrary, cement floors require hammering to be accessed and often result in more labor. Thus, denser floors like cement or concrete floors cost more than dirt and gravel ones.

Location: The location of the sump pump also has a bearing on the overall cost. If the pump is not located at the lowest area of a basement, it will drive up the cost. Generally, if the sump pump’s location is in a dense or complex plumbing region, it will be more difficult to install, and therefore more expensive.

Steps to Install a Sump Pump

1. Locate a space where you see a considerable puddle or water collection. Make sure it is beside a GFCI outlet. Plug in the sump pump.
2. Dig a hole big enough to install the sump pump. Ideally, it should be 6 inches deeper and 10 inches wider than the sump.
3. Put the sump in the hole and add about 3 inches of gravel to the hole's bottom so that the sump is not entirely buried.
4. Pour more gravel while standing in the sump. Leave about 2 inches of the sump gravel-free.
5. Attach the adaptors by gluing the male adapter on the PVC discharge pipe and put the female adapter on the pump.
6. With a quarter inch drill, drill a 6-inch deep hole on top of the pump in the discharge pipe. This ensures water to move back inside the pump when the pump is off.
7. Place a check valve on the opened end of the discharge pipe and make sure it can stand vertically.
8. Remove the water away from the pump and facility by using the PVC.
9. Hang the PVC through the wall.
10. Use a silicone sealant to cover the hole where the pipe is positioned between the building and the outdoors.
11. Connect an increaser at the pipe's end to spread out the water flow.
12. Surround the pipe with gravel and plug in the pump. Cover the sump with its lid.

Steps to Replace a Sump Pump

1. Unplug the current sump pump by disconnecting it from the discharge line.
2. As you enter the new sump pump, fit it so that it sits at an appropriate level in the hole. (See above instructions for exact measurement.)
3. Use the current piece of discharge line left from the previous pump.
4. Connect a check valve to the discharge line to prevent water from moving from the discharge line back inside the pump to improve the pump's lifespan.
5. Take the main discharge line and connect it with the outlet pipe via tightening them.
6. Plug in the pump to an outlet.
7. Test the pump by pouring the hole with water.

Dealing with Sump Pumps

There are various types of sump pumps available so you should consider which will work best for your basement. If you own a septic system, consider buying a sewage pump, as it will connect the sump pump to the septic system and help in moving out waste. If you are in an area often plagued by power outages, invest in either a combination sump pump or a battery backup sump pump.

If you are unsure about whether to replace your pump, consider things like noise, electrical power, performance and age before making your decision. Choosing the right one from the outset can save you the hassle of replacing your sump pump altogether.