Your home’s basement provides an extra living space for your office, gym, or even guest bedroom. If you want to protect it from basement flooding and water damage, then you may need a sump pump installation.
Now here’s something you should know: most homeowners may feel that installing a new pump is very easy, especially after watching a DIY video online, however in reality, it requires careful attention to details to avoid some common sump pump installation mistakes that can lead to costly repairs in the long run. Well, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll give you step-by-step sump pump installation tips to help you ensure a successful installation process.
Let’s get started!
Key Highlights
- If you want to have a successful sump pump installation process, then you need to choose the right sump pump size and follow your manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes.
- If you don’t have a GFCI outlet to power your sump pump, ensure you call an electrician to help you install one.
Understanding Sump Pumps and Their Importance
Do you know that a sump pump is a valuable investment in your home, especially if you experience water leaks in your home after a rainstorm? But what exactly does a sump pump do, and why is it so important? Well, let’s explain in simple terms, your sump pump (whether submersible sump pump, pedestal sump pump, battery backup sump pump, water-powered sump pump, or any other type of sump pump) is like a preventive drainage system for your basement.
Here’s how it works: it collects excess water in a specially designed sump pit through the weep holes in your concrete floor and then pumps the water away from your home’s foundation. This not only helps you to prevent the growth of mold and mildew in your basement, but it also prevents water damage to your belongings, walls, and overall home structure.
Preparing for Sump Pump Installation
You’ll need to carefully plan and prepare for your sump pump installation. Before you start, ensure you get all the necessary tools and materials like your PVC pipe, check valve, gravel for drainage, jackhammer, sledgehammer., hose, glue, screwdriver, caulk, and sump pump liner. These tools will make your installation process smoother and more efficient.
That’s not all. Every basement has its unique characteristics, so you should assess your specific needs before installing a sump pump. The next step is to identify the area in your basement that’s most prone to water accumulation. It’s usually the lowest point in your basement floor level, which is near your drain.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sump Pump Installation
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you want to install your sump pump. However, if you follow these tips, you’ll ensure a successful Sump pump installation process.
Step 1: Choosing the right location for your sump pit and discharge pipes
Don’t just install your sump pump anywhere in your home. If you want your equipment to function efficiently, you need to find the right location for your sump pit. It’s best to install it at the lowest point of your basement or crawl space, where water naturally collects.
This strategic placement allows your sump pump to trap water effectively and remove it before it reaches your basement floor. Your discharge pipe location should not be left out either. Ensure you direct it to a drainage area that’s far from your home.
Step 2: Installing your sump pump liner/basin
After installing your sump pit, you’ll need to install your sump basin to protect your pump. Here’s what you should do: ensure you turn your sump basin upside down before putting it inside your pit. This will make any condensation that forms on the lid drip outside your basin, preventing potential overflow.
When you place your sump basin into the pit, ensure it fits properly. You can add a layer of gravel under the basin to create a level surface. Then put more gravel around the basin so that the top edge will be at the same level as your basement floor. You can also place a stone paver on your basin’s lid to secure it.
For a successful Sump Pump Installation, make sure all components are properly positioned and secured to ensure effective water management and protect your basement from flooding.
Step 3: Setting up your sump pump
When you’re ready to set up your new sump pump installation, ensure you carefully lower it into your basin so that your float switch won’t be obstructed. Then connect your discharge pipe to your pump and ensure the seal is watertight.
If your sump pump has a pre-attached power cord, then the electrical connection won’t be a hassle. Just plug your pump into a dedicated GFCI outlet, which helps you to automatically turn off the power in case of a ground fault that can lead to electrical shocks.
Step 4: Testing the installation
Now that you’ve completed your sump pump installation, it’s time to find out if it’s working properly. Here’s what you should do: fill your sump pit and observe the increase in the water level. When the water reaches the trigger point of the float switch, the pump should activate automatically and direct the water out through the discharge pipe.
You should also ensure that the water flows away from your home to prevent flooding or water damage. If your sump pump is not working as it should, or you notice some plumbing issues after your installation process, then it’s wise to call a professional plumber to fix the problem immediately.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s tell you the truth: it’s possible to still make some mistakes in your sump pump installation process even with a step-by-step guide. However, you can avoid them if you’re aware of them. Here are some common mistakes you can face when installing a sump pump.
1. Not checking local building codes
Do you know that there are several regulations guiding sump pump installation and they can vary from one municipality to another? These codes will let you know the required size and type of pump you can install, the location of your discharge line, and any other essential aspects of your installation process.
So, you need to get familiar with these local building codes before you even buy a sump pump. If you don’t comply with any of these building codes, you may have to pay costly fines or modifications after your installation process. That’s why you need to contact your local building department for information on permits, inspections, and specific regulations you need to successfully install your new pump.
2. Ignoring manufacturer’s instructions
Many homeowners ignore their manufacturer’s instructions during a sump pump installation and this can lead to potential problems in the future. It’s important to know that your sump pump model is unique and has specific guidelines for installation, operation, and maintenance.
If you ignore these instructions, you can make a mistake in your installation process, void your warranty, and even damage your pump. That’s why you need to carefully read your installation guide and pay close attention to details, such as the required pipe sizes, electrical connections, and placement of some components like your check valve.
3. Incorrect sump pump sizing
The wrong pump size can ruin your sump pump installation process and lead to flooding in your basement. For instance, if you choose a pump that is too small for your needs, it will result in constant cycling and potential burnout, as your pump will keep struggling with the water inflow. On the other hand, if you install an oversized pump, you may notice a consistent on-and-off cycling of your pump, which can lead to premature wear and tear.
To find the right sump pump size for your installation, you’ll need to check the size of your basement, the severity of water issues in your area, and the depth of your sump pit. You can also seek the advice of a professional. They’ll assess your needs and recommend the right sump pump size for your home.
Why You Need to Use a GFCI Outlet For Your Sump Pump Installation
Your safety is important when installing your sump pump. That’s why we advise homeowners to use only a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet for their sump pump. This outlet detects ground faults and helps you reduce the risk of electric shocks, especially in wet places like your basements where you installed your sump pump. If you don’t have this outlet in your basement, it’s important to call an expert electrician like Frontline Pro Services to install them in your basement before you start your sump pump installation process.
Here in California, Frontline Pro Services is the right electrician for you. We have certified electricians who can safely install GFCI outlets for your home. If you also need any electrical services for your home or commercial space, we can also help. Our services are affordable and efficient. Reach out to us now!
