How to replace a sump pump

When replacing a sump pump you should take the opportunity to bring the system up to the highest standards possible. It is a Sump Pump System, not just a pump. At a minimum the sump pump system has four components to it: the sump pit, the sump pump, the discharge pipe and the electrical.

THE SUMP PIT

While the sump can just be a small hole in the floor the pit should have a liner. A High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic liner with a cover is best. This is a non-biodegradable material and the slotted cover is designed for it, so it should be permanent. They are typically about 18" in diameter and 30 " deep. The hole should be deeper with at least 6" of  ¾ “ stone below it. Drill a dozen or so 1/2" holes in the bottom of the pit and a few around the bottom of the sides to promote drainage.

THE SUMP PUMP

There are 2 different types of sump pumps: Pedestal and submersible.

Pedestal sump pumps are pumps with motors that are not designed to be submerged in water. These pumps rise out of the sump pit above the floor so it's not possible to use a lid. The pedestal pump's design allows humidity, odors and noise to rise out of the pit into the basement. A-1 Basement Solutions does not recommend or install pedestal sump pumps.

Submersible sump pumps are the most powerful and effective sump pumps available. They install beneath the floor in an enclosed sump liner with a cover designed to minimize humidity, odors and noise. Because of the sub-floor covered design a submersible pump makes the most attractive visual choice.

The sump pump should have an attached float that operates the pump, we use a Zoeller 57001 .3HP Pump. A-1 Basement Solutions recommends and installs submersible sump pumps only. 

THE DISCHARGE PIPE

Now that the sump pump is getting the water out of the pit; where does it go? You don’t want it coming back into the house so the water should be sent as far away from the house as possible. Local ordinances prohibit the discharge of sump water into the sanitary sewer system, but some municipalities will allow it into the storm drain system if accessible. A buried pitched pipe leading to a drywell is a good choice.

Your discharge pipe should be a 1 1/2" schedule 40 PVC pipe with a 3/16th " vent hole a foot up to prevent the pump from becoming air locked. When a submersible unit is installed with a check-valve in the pipe, there has to be a way for the air to vent out of the discharge pipe. The check valve should be set higher.

THE ELECTRICAL

The sump pump is powered by 110 AC electricity so it must have an outlet, a dedicated circuit with GFI is what the building code calls for.

You may want to consider a back-up for when you lose power or for when your main pump fails. It’s good peace of mind to know that you’re covered in case of an emergency.

A 7 Day Battery Back Up Sump Pump is a back-up sump pump for emergency use during power failure for homes with or without French Drains. By combing your sump pump with a 7 Day Battery Backup Sump Pump you will have the most reliable wet basement protection available.

When installing the 7 Day Battery Back Up Sump Pump, you should have it plugged into a different circuit than the primary pump so if the breaker should trip the battery system will still be able to charge.

Should I get my Basement Inspected?

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