Sump Pump Installation Tips for a Dry Basement

If your basement is constantly flooding and you know your plumbing system isn’t to blame, sump pump installation might be the answer. This device prevents flooding by collecting and redirecting water away from your home's foundation.

Installing a sump pump and a sump water collection system is a major job, and we don’t recommend that most do-it-yourselfers try to tackle the problem. Still, if you’d like to learn more about how to install a sump pump, we’ll go over the basic steps below.

What Is a Sump Pump and Why Is Installation Important?

A sump pump sits in a sump pit at the lowest point of your home’s basement or crawl space. It collects excess groundwater and redirects it away from the foundation through a discharge pipe. Installing a sump pump is important because it:

• Prevents basement flooding by removing excess water during heavy rainfall.
• Reduces or prevents mold and mildew growth by keeping the basement dry.
• Protects foundation integrity by preventing water from weakening the structure.

How to Install a Sump Pump and Perimeter Drainage Tile

If your goal is to learn how to install a sump pump and sump system in a home that doesn’t already have one, follow the steps below. Keep in mind that your installation may vary depending on your exact situation. Additionally, you may be required to get a plumbing or building permit from local regulatory authorities and follow-up inspections at various stages of the project:

1. Choose the right location: Select the lowest point in your basement where water collects.
2. Dig the sump pit: Using a demolition hammer, excavate a hole large enough to accommodate the sump basin.
3. Excavate a perimeter trench at the foot of every outside wall of your basement: It should be at least 1-foot wide and should be dug just below the point where footer meets the basement wall. 
4. Prep the sump basin: Drill some one-inch holes around the sides. This will make it easier for water to fill the tank. Drill two large 4-inch diameter holes on opposite side walls of the basin, approximately halfway between the top and bottom.
5. Place the sump basin: Lower the basin into the hole. 
6. Lay four inch flexible perforated pipe: Do this inside the perimeter trench and connect each end to 4-inch holes you drilled into the sump basin. Make sure the pipe is pitched toward the sump basin. Check local plumbing codes for proper pitch. This pipe will collect water from around the foundation and direct it into the sump pit.
7. Backfill the trench and around the crock with gravel. Ensure the flexible pipe’s perforations are positioned to allow water to drain into the pipe from the top and sides.
8. Install the pump: Position the sump pump inside the basin, ensuring the float switch moves freely.
9. Connect the discharge pipe to the sump pump with a check valve in between: Attach PVC piping to direct water away from your foundation.
10. Seal and secure connections: Use watertight fittings to prevent leaks. Use sealant caulk to close off any gaps or holes, especially where the drainage pipe passes through your basement wall.
11. Pour fresh concrete: Fill the trench area and restore the basement floor above the perimeter drain. Smooth it with a masonry trowel.
12. Seal in the basin: Mix cement and pour it into the space between the basin and the hole in the floor to secure it in place.
13. Test the pump: Fill the basin with water and turn on the pump to verify operation.

Sump Pump Installation Tips from the Roto-Rooter Pros

If you’re committed to completing your sump pump installation on your own, keep these dos and don’ts in mind:

• Always find the proper placement: Position the sump pump where water naturally pools in your basement. Choosing a higher location means the pump won’t be effective.
• Make sure the drainage discharge pipe directs water at least 10 feet from the home: Having a long drainage pipe prevents water from leaking back into the basement.
• Use a check valve: Prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit with a check valve.
• Ensure a secure power source: Use a dedicated circuit to avoid electrical issues. Additionally, make sure electrical components won’t be exposed to water.
• Avoid improper basin sizing: A basin too small may cause the pump to cycle too frequently, leading to wear and tear.
• Test regularly: Run water through the system every few months to confirm it’s working properly.

How to Replace a Sump Pump Safely

Has your sump pump been misfiring recently? It may be time for a replacement. Here are a few signs that your sump pump may be reaching the end of its life:

• Frequent cycling or running constantly
• Strange noises or vibrations
• Visible rust or corrosion
• Basement flooding despite pump operation

DIY replacement is possible if you have plumbing experience. That said, it’s usually a job best left to the professionals, especially if you have to drill holes through your basement walls or floor. Most DIY homeowners don’t have the demolition tools needed to get the job done safely. Additionally, the use of cement can make the job more difficult if you haven’t worked with it before.

Overall, hiring a professional ensures proper installation and minimizes the risk of failure.

How Much Is It to Install a Sump Pump?

Without knowing your exact specifications, it’s hard to determine the cost of a sump pump. That’s because sump pump installation costs vary based on:

• Type of pump: Submersible pumps cost more than pedestal pumps
• Labor fees: Professional installation adds to the total expense
• Basement conditions: More complex installations require additional work
• Backup systems: Battery backups or alarms increase costs

To get a better idea of what it would cost to replace an existing sump pump in your space, reach out to a Roto-Rooter plumber for an estimate. To get a cost estimate for installing an entire sump system consisting of a perimeter drain tile, sump basin, and sump pump, call a basement waterproofing company that completes these large jobs.

Can You Install a Sump Pump in a Crawl Space?

Yes, installing a sump pump in a crawl space is a great way to prevent moisture buildup and structural damage. However, it can be trickier to work in a smaller space. You’ll need to think about:

• Having enough room to drill a hole in the floor — you may have to go with a pitless sump pump if you don’t.
• Buying a smaller sump basin, as you may not have enough space for a full-size one.
• Making sure you have enough space to discharge the water far enough from the foundation.
• Installing a vapor barrier for added protection against moisture.

How Long Will a Sump Pump Last After Installation?

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, a sump pump typically lasts for around seven years, depending on maintenance and usage. To extend its lifespan:

• Perform regular sump pump maintenance, like cleaning the pump and checking for debris every few months.
• Test the pump at least once a year by pouring water into the basin to ensure it activates correctly.
• Check that the power supply remains plugged into a reliable outlet.

Keep Your Basement Dry With Expert Sump Pump Installation

Installing a sump pump is essential for protecting your home from water damage. If you have a good amount of DIY experience and follow our expert tips, you might be able to handle the installation on your own.

But if the idea of drilling through your foundation scares you, then we’re here to help. Contact Roto-Rooter today for professional sump pump replacement services to ensure your home stays safe and dry year-round. Call a basement waterproofing company that specializes in sump system installations if your home doesn’t already have one.