Sump pumps are vital tools in helping prevent basement flooding, safeguard valuable items from water damage and stop mold and mildew from growing in damp areas. In addition, they protect the foundation of your home while improving overall family health by eliminating an unnecessary source of moisture that could aggravate asthma, allergies or other breathing conditions; additionally, having a dry basement makes termites and other damaging pests less likely to flourish there.
An individual homeowner can install their sump pump themselves, but professional installation is usually preferred to ensure it’s done correctly. This is especially important if dealing with electrical or plumbing work as these require specific tools and knowledge for proper execution. If you feel intimidated by DIY installations, top-rated local pros are here to assist; just answer a few simple questions to be matched up with reliable professionals in your area.
What’s the average cost of installing a sump pump?
On average, installing a new sump pump costs approximately $1,100. Replacing an existing one, however, will typically be considerably less as installers will already have dug out your pit or basin and established drainage, making it much simpler and faster to swap in a replacement pump than doing everything from scratch.
Installation of a sump pump can be an extensive and time-consuming project that necessitates specialist tools and expertise. Furthermore, some cities require permits for this work which adds additional costs.
Befor starting, locate all water, sewer and utility lines entering your house. Your sump pump should be at least 8 inches (20 centimeters) away from these lines and close to a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet for safety purposes. Once this has been determined, dig a hole large enough to accommodate its liner before measuring and cutting pieces of PVC pipe to lead from it directly to its discharge area – dry fitting these pieces until all pieces fit correctly before cementing them in place.
Once your sump pump is installed, make sure it’s plugged into a working GFCI outlet and isn’t blocked with debris or mud. Regularly test its performance by pouring buckets of water into its pit to see whether its pump quickly activates and drains away.
Maintaining your sump pump in good condition can save both money and headaches. Listen out for unusual noises like gurgling or thumping that could indicate something is amiss; open the cover of the pit or basin periodically and remove any accumulated mud, rocks or debris to ensure smooth operation of equipment. Should any issues arise with the sump pump itself, contact an expert as quickly as possible in order to diagnose and repair it – acting sooner may prevent costly repairs or an untimely flood basement situation from developing.
