Sump Pump Installation Guide: DIY Steps & Safety

Sump pumps are essential to keeping your basement dry, and installing one is easier than you may think. Installing your own sump pump requires just a few basic hand tools, a few PVC parts, and a replacements pump. Our step-by-step guide will teach you how to install a sump pump in as little as an hour.

How to Install a Sump Pump

Keeping your basement dry can be as easy as replacing your sump pump. With just a little time and a few simple tools, our guide can walk you through every step of the process.

Step 1: Preparation and Essential Safety

Before you begin, remember that safety and preparation are the bedrock of any successful home project.

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

• New Sump Pump (with a piggyback float, if desired)
• New Check Valve (preferably a glue-in style)
• Drill with a 3/16-inch drill bit
• Hacksaw and Utility Knife (for deburring)
• PVC Primer and PVC Cement
• Adjustable Pliers and an Adjustable Pipe Wrench
• Rubber Boot (if using a standard check valve)
• Bucket (for the old pump)
• Shop-vac (to clear any standing water)
• Wire Ties (Zip Ties)
• Gloves and Rags
• 1.5" Schedule 40 PVC pipe (10 ft. length recommended)

Critical Safety and Pre-Installation Checks:

1.   Unplug the Power: Before touching anything in the pit, unplug the pump. You must eliminate all electrical hazards before working with water.

2.   Verify Outlet Placement: Ensure the electrical outlet is within reach of the pump’s power cord (typically 8–10 feet long). The outlet should also be on a dedicated electrical circuit and at least 4 feet off the floor.

3.   No Extension Cords: Never use an extension cord. This can cause voltage drop, overheating, and potentially damage the pump or create a fire hazard.

4.   Do Not Run Dry: Never let the pump run without water, as this can cause it to burn out.

5.   Replace the Check Valve: If the pump you are replacing is over five to seven years old, it is highly recommended to install a new check valve. They wear out over time and can become noisy.

Step 2: Removing the Old Pump and Inspecting the Pit

1.   Disconnect the Discharge Pipe: Locate the check valve. Disconnect the pipe at the bottom of the check valve to allow water in the upper section to drain before removal.

2.   Remove the Old Pump: Carefully lift the old pump out of the pit. Place the pump immediately into a nearby bucket.

3.   Inspect and Prepare the Sump Pit:

• Use a shop-vac to remove any standing water and clean out any debris.
• Crucial Base Requirement: Never place a sump pump directly on earth or gravel. The pit must have a hard, level bottom (like bricks or concrete) to prevent excessive impeller wear or jamming.
• Check Dimensions: Ideally, the pit should be at least 22 inches deep and more than 14 inches in diameter (18 inches is recommended). This ensures the float switch has ample room to move freely without getting caught on the walls or piping, which is essential for proper pump activation.

Step 3: Installing the Discharge Pipe and Check Valve

1.   Attach the Adapter to the New Pipe (Bottom): Apply primer and PVC cement to a male threaded adapter, then secure it to one end of the new PVC pipe. Thread this adapter directly into the discharge port on your new sump pump. Use a wrench to tighten, but be careful not to overtighten, as the fittings may crack.

2.   Test the Pump and Float: Before proceeding, connect the pump cord to the float cord (piggyback float) and plug it in. Run the pump for no more than a few seconds by lifting the float to confirm it activates.

3.   Drill the Weep Hole: This step is crucial to prevent an air lock, which can cause the pump to run dry and fail.

• Lean the pump at a 45-degree angle.
• Measure approximately two fingers' width above the pump's discharge adapter.
• Using your drill and the 3/16-inch bit, drill a hole at a 45-degree angle pointing downward into the pipe.

4.   Attach the Check Valve to the Upper Pipe: Secure the check valve union and adapter to the existing upper discharge pipe using PVC primer and cement. Twist slightly to lock the fitting for a strong bond.

5.   Measure and Cut the Pipe (Final Length): Lower the pump into the pit. Use the final check valve adapter as a guide, and mark where the connecting pipe needs to be cut for a perfect fit. Remove the pump and pipe.

• Cut the pipe using a hacksaw.
• Pro-Tip: Deburr the Edges. Use a utility knife to smooth out any frayed plastic bits on the cut edge. This crucial step eliminates the possibility of leaks.

6.   Final Connection: Glue the final adapter onto the top of the cut pipe. Lower the pump back into the pit and align the discharge pipe. Secure the top and bottom of the check valve by hand-tightening the threading, again being careful not to overtighten.

Step 4: Final Test and System Security

1.   Secure the Electrical Cords: This is a vital safety and functionality step. Use wire ties (zip ties) to secure the pump and float cords to the discharge pipe, making sure the cords do not touch each other or interfere with the float's movement.

a.   Critical Safety Note: The highest zip tie securing the wiring to the pipe must be below the height of the electrical outlet. This prevents any water traveling down the wire from reaching and damaging the outlet.

2.   Final System Test: Plug the system in (pump cord into float cord, float cord into outlet). If there isn't enough water, fill the pit with a bucket of water. Ensure the pump runs and shuts off properly, and check that the check valve closes completely when the system turns off.

3.   Cover the Pit: Place a sturdy sump pump pit cover over the opening to protect the system from falling debris.

Completing Your System

Congratulations! You have successfully installed your primary sump pump. For an extra layer of comfort and peace of mind, many homeowners choose to upgrade their system. With our specialized blend of selection and expertise, Ferguson Home can assist you with these larger, more complex solutions:

• Sump Pump Alarms: These notify you if the water reaches a dangerous level. Smart alarms can send alerts directly to your phone, no matter where you are.
• Battery Backup Systems: A battery backup pump will protect your basement during a power outage, virtually doubling the power of your system when you need it most.
• Combination Systems: These integrate a primary pump and a battery backup pump into one convenient unit, providing the highest level of hassle-free protection.

By combining your installation knowledge with reliable products, you ensure your home is protected for years to come.