Get pumped for a DIY dry basement
Sump pumps are usually out of sight and out of mind—until you’ve got a wet basement. Your home’s sump pump collects water that sneaks in through your foundation to help protect the home from water damage. If your current sump pump has seen better days, replacing it in a timely manner can help you avoid needing a boat to navigate your basement. Don’t let sump pump replacement costs bring on the waterworks, you can get it done on your own with a few basic DIY skills.
Replacing a sump pump is a relatively straightforward task that almost any homeowner can tackle, but it’s important to take the right preparatory steps before diving in.
Make sure your replacement sump pump is appropriate for your home—it should be the right size for your sump basin and have enough power to keep your basement dry. If your old sump pump performed well but just reached the end of its life, a newer model of the same pump is a safe bet. If your sump pump isn’t doing its job, however, it’s worth getting professional advice to determine what model works best for your home.
The first step in removing your old sump pump is disconnecting the power, which means turning off power from the circuit breaker and unplugging the unit. This is when you may need a good flashlight or work light. Then, disconnect the sump pump from the discharge line. Disconnect the bottom pipe from the check valve and separate.
To avoid getting water all over the floor, the next step involves removing the sump pump lid, removing the check valve, and draining any remaining water into the open sump pump pit. You should now be able to remove the sump pump.
Before starting the replacement, read through the user manual to get familiar with your new sump pump. The manual not only comes with model-specific instructions but also provides important safety and accessory compatibility information.
Once you’ve removed the old unit, it’s time to center and align your new sump pump. Depending on your home’s configuration, that means placing it in the sump pump pit or on top of a pump stand. Use the level to make sure the pump is on level ground. If needed, you can use spacers or shims to level it, allowing the float to move freely in the center of the pit without touching the sides.
Find the discharge outlet on the new sump pump. If your old discharge pipe is a match to your new sump pump, you don’t need a new pipe. If you need a new pipe, you can cut a piece of PVC to the required length.
To connect the discharge line, attach a length of PVC pipe to the pump using a male adapter. Most discharge pipes either screw onto a threaded connection or need to be glued on with PVC cement. Once you’ve attached and fastened the discharge pipe, ensure that the arrow on the pipe is pointing up—this indicates that the water flows up and out of the pit.
With the sump pump and pipes properly assembled, you’re ready to plug the unit in. Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker, then plug the cord into the outlet. To protect you from electrical shocks, this outlet should be a ground fault circuit interrupter.
You’re not finished yet—it’s important to test your new sump pump to ensure it’s working properly. Fill the pit with water, which should cause the float to rise and activate the sump pump. The sump pump should begin processing the water and turn off as soon as the water level drops below the float. If the sump pump isn't draining water, turn off the power at the source again before troubleshooting.
Although not technically required, it’s recommended to cover your sump pump once it’s working. Sump pumps usually come with tight-fitting covers that reduce noise and smell and keep kids, pets, and pests out of the pit. Depending on your model, line up your pipes and wiring with the built-in cutouts, and fasten the cover with screws, bolts, or another method.
Replacing a sump pump on your own is a doable DIY task with the right amount of patience, focus, and knowledge. You’ll essentially save on the cost of installation labor and only pay for the parts and materials required. Keep in mind that those materials also include the tools needed for the job, which can rack up your bill if you don’t already have them in your workshop.
Hiring a local sump pump repair person or plumber can be more expensive, but doing so comes with a number of handy benefits. Depending on your area, replacement labor fees can range from $90 to $800 in addition to the cost of the unit. With those fees, you get access to an experienced and licensed professional who has all the expertise and equipment to get the job done correctly and efficiently, giving you peace of mind about your new pump. They can assess your specific situation, recommend the ideal sump pump, and deal with details such as sizing and troubleshooting.
Remember that sump pump installation costs and individual units can vary depending on the model, power source, horsepower, and type of unit. Pedestal sump pumps are typically cheaper, averaging at about $115, but they take up more space in your home. Submersible sump pumps are quiet, powerful, and space-efficient, and they average $225.
Like other appliances in your home, sump pumps don’t last forever. The average lifespan of a sump pump is about 10 years, after which the unit should be replaced. It’s best to replace the sump pump before it malfunctions and leads to water damage in your home and to your belongings.
If your sump pump has burnt out or malfunctioned before the end of its expected lifespan, you should be able to notice a few warning signs. Running constantly, making strange noises or vibrations, or ceasing to function altogether are all clear signs that your sump pump is due for replacement. You should also replace the sump pump if you notice any signs of incorrect installation.
One common reason a sump pump stops working is improper sizing. Different locations need different sizes and power ratings of sump pumps depending on the typical amount of water the pump needs to manage. If your sump pump is too small for the quantity of water, it can overwork and either burn out or reduce the life of the unit. If the pump is too big, it can overwork and burn out early.
