In this guide

Sump Pump Cost by Type

Two main types of sump pumps ¹ are available: pedestal and submersible, ranging from $80 to $300. Many homeowners wonder what the benefits are of a pedestal vs. a submersible sump pump. The answer depends on each property’s requirements and structural design. A pedestal pump sets the pump on a tall stand so that it isn’t directly in the water in the pump pit, and then a pipe connects to the bottom of the pit and pulls the water out. On the other hand, a submersible pump sits in a waterproof casing in the sump pit’s water. When the water level rises, water comes up through the bottom of the pump and is pulled through towards the outlet pipes ² on top. The biggest factor in choosing which kind of pump to use is the size of your basement and the average costs for sump pumps by type:

Pedestal Sump Pump

On average, a pedestal sump pump ³ costs $80 to $180 just for materials. It includes a motor sitting on top of a pedestal with a hose for draining into the sump pit. The pump and hose system draws water up and out to avoid water damage and flooding. The moderately powered motor can handle areas with some occasional minor flooding. Much like traditional toilet tanks, the motor engages when a float in the reservoir rises along with the water level to trip the switch and turn on the sump pump. One of the main pros of these sump pumps is that the raised pedestal makes them easier and more affordable to service. On the flip side, the pedestal may get in the way of doing major work in the basement, such as moving things around or finishing renovations. The motor’s longevity is another positive. It may last for up to 30 years when installed properly, although keep in mind it is louder without muffling.

Submersible Sump Pump Cost

Submersible sump pumps are slightly more expensive on average than pedestal sump pumps, with an average cost of around $135 to $300 just for the pump alone. This kind of sump pump is submerged under the surface rather than readily accessible above the ground like a pedestal sump pump. As the name suggests, these pumps are submerged under the ground and sealed to keep water from getting in and damaging the motor. The motor and pump make up the unit, which has greater power for areas with more flooding than pedestal sump pumps. Another pro of submersible sump pumps is that they are much quieter due to their position beneath the surface. They are not as prone to clogging as pedestals, but they are more costly to repair, with potential service fees for working on the plumbing and flooring. They also don’t last as long, most around 5 to 15 years, depending on the sump pump, maintenance, and flooding conditions.

Sump Pump Price by Power Type

With pedestal and submersible sump pumps, you need to think about the power type. Sump pumps are powered in two key ways: water-powered and battery-powered. Combination options are typically used for backup in case one aspect fails, such as with a power outage. A water-powered sump pump has water coursing through the pipe at a high enough speed to produce suction to empty the sump pit. A battery-powered sump pump can be used in the majority of homes. Here are the average costs for sump pumps by power type, ranging from $120 to $500 based on whether you choose a battery or a water-powered sump pump or a combination of the two.

Water-Powered Sump Pump Cost

A water-powered sump pump costs $120 to $300 on average. A water-powered sump pump runs on municipal water pressure and doesn’t need any electricity or battery power to operate. For homeowners with access to city water, a water-powered sump pump makes sense because they don’t have to pay for extra electricity and have access to what they need for the sump pump. Other pros of a water-powered sump pump include the technically unlimited run time and low maintenance without the battery. Some cons are that homes without wells cannot use water-powered sump pumps. They may not reach the full pumping volume that battery backups do and require more installation time in many cases.

Battery Sump Pump Cost

The average cost for battery-powered sump pumps is $130 to $400. A battery-powered sump pump runs on electricity instead of water suction. They were the first on the market before the water-powered alternative gained popularity. Marine-deep battery backups power the sump pump and keep it operating smoothly. The biggest advantage of these versatile pumps is that almost every home can use them, unlike the water-powered sump pumps that don’t work with well water connections. They also have stronger pumping power and lift, with some reaching 3,000 gallons per hour. Large homes at risk of severe flooding may benefit from the power boost of a battery sump pump. While the installation is typically straightforward, one drawback is the limited run time and battery life.

Combination Sump Pump

The average cost of a combination sump pump is $200 to $500. For homeowners who want extra protection and peace of mind, a combination sump pump may be a smart choice. It’s essentially a combination of the two, with a primary sump pump and a backup one in case of a malfunction or extended failure. Pros of the cost-effective combo sump pump include its preassembled design with a primary submersible sump pump and a battery-powered backup option. It gives homeowners the greater horsepower they want with the primary sump pump. Cons of a combination sump pump are that sometimes the sump basin may not be big enough, or the backup horsepower isn’t as strong.

Sump Pump Price by Material

The average cost for a sump pump by material is another price factor to keep in mind for the project. Sump pumps can be constructed using several different materials, which may be more suitable for certain situations and vary in cost from $75 to $300. Plastic, cast iron, and stainless steel are the most common materials used to make sump pumps. The table below highlights the average cost for a submersible sump pump of that material, not including installation.

Plastic Sump Pump

The average price for a plastic sump pump is $75 to $200. Plastic sump pumps are less expensive than their cast iron or stainless steel counterparts. Plastic can be used for both submersible and pedestal sump pumps. However, these pumps are more likely to crack and need replacements sooner. While plastic doesn’t last as long, it is a budget-friendly option that may be suitable for homes in low-risk flood areas and relatively dry climates where their sump pump hopefully won’t need to work overtime.

Cast Iron Sump Pump

Homeowners pay $150 to $300 on average for cast iron sump pumps. Cast iron is another popular choice for sump pumps due to its durability. Cast iron pumps eventually erode, but that’s something that happens after years of continued use. Overall, they have a longer lifespan than plastic pumps. A cast iron sump pump may last 10 to 25 years when properly maintained. Keep in mind that a cast iron pump is much heavier than a plastic one. A professional will definitely be needed to install and maintain it properly. Cast iron pumps run at cooler temperatures and are best suited for a large basement in flood-prone areas.

Stainless Steel Sump Pump

Expect to pay just slightly more on average for a stainless steel sump pump, around $160 to $300. Homeowners who want a durable sump pump that’s not as heavy and bulky as cast iron may choose to go with a stainless steel option. Unlike cast iron, which operates at a cooler temperature point, stainless steel does not cope well in the heat. Once it is hot, it remains hot for a while. However, it takes a while for stainless steel to heat up. Stainless steel is a strong, damage-proof material for sump pumps. It very rarely warps, cracks, or breaks. This rust-resistant material is ideal for water-based applications.

New Sump Pump Cost by Gallons per Hour

The average costs of sump pumps per hour depend on the size and can be anywhere from $100 to $700. Are you wondering what size sump pump you need? One of the main considerations when looking at sump pumps is gallons per hour or GPH. This measurement tells you a lot about the size and capacity of the sump pump and how much water it can effectively pump per hour. Understanding this number is important so that you can consider sump pumps with the capacity to handle your requirements. If you live somewhere with a very low risk of flooding, you don’t necessarily need a sump pump with the same GPH as a homeowner who lives in a valley that floods often. A 3,000 GPH sump pump accommodates much less water than a 10,000 GPH sump pump, so it’s better suited to dry regions or hilltops with minimal flooding risk. The volume of rainfall and snow you get in your area and the design of your plumbing pipes factor into your sump pump purchase. If you have an older, simple pipe network, then a lower GPH should suffice, whereas long, narrow pipes that turn often may need extra sump pump strength.

Sump Pump Motor Cost by Horsepower

Sump pump motors have different power levels, measured in HP and ranging in average cost from $100 to $500. Homeowners and plumbers should do their research to understand better their horsepower requirements, which depend on the basement size, home square footage, and the frequency of water problems and plumbing issues. For someone who lives in a relatively dry area or atop a hill with minimal flooding concerns, a lower horsepower should suffice, while large homes in the middle of a flood zone may want more horsepower with their sump pumps.

It’s necessary to have the appropriate amount of horsepower so that the sump pump can keep up with the water levels and avoid backups and malfunctions. This table shows some of the most popular horsepower ratings and the average cost for a submersible sump pump of that size. Please keep in mind that each sump pump and home have unique requirements, and the total capacity of the sump pump depends on its type, power source, design, and brand. The average costs for sump pump motors by horsepower are outlined below.

0.25 HP Sump Pump

These sump pumps ¹ typically handle between 1,700 and 3,000 gallons per hour, depending on the brand and design. Their average cost is $100 to $250. A 0.25 HP sump pump is the lowest and most affordable of the HP options. It pumps water slowly and steadily compared to other sump pumps on the market. Homes in dry climates outside of the flood zone can benefit from an inexpensive yet efficient 0.25 HP sump pump from a reputable brand.

0.33 HP Sump Pump

The average cost for a 0.33 HP sump pump is $110 to $270. The costs for a 0.33 HP sump pump are not that much more than a 0.25 HP sump pump. The total price of your unit depends on the GPH and material. However, you can expect a ⅓ HP sump pump to handle between 1,800 and 3,500 gallons per hour. This is another budget-friendly option to consider if you live somewhere with a low to moderate flooding risk.

0.5 HP Sump Pump Price

The average cost of a 0.5 HP sump pump is $150 to $300. A ½ HP sump pump has slightly more capacity than the smaller ones, although it still is better suited for a place with moderate flooding rather than in the heart of a flood zone. It’s not uncommon to have 0.5 HP sump pumps pumping 2,000 to 4,000 gallons per hour, depending on the design and energy efficiency.

1 HP Sump Pump Price

Homeowners pay $200 to $325 on average for a 1 HP sump pump. As the HP increases, so does the pump’s effectiveness at clearing out water in a shorter amount of time. A 1 HP sump pump can take on 2,500 to 5,500 gallons per hour based on the brand and construction. This size sump pump is a good option for homeowners who have struggled with flooding in the past or someone who lives in a place with regular heavy rainfall.

2 HP Sump Pump Price

On average, a 2 HP sump pump will cost around $250 to $400. It usually costs more to get a 2 HP sump pump, but homeowners in the center of the floodplains or at the bottom of hills and valleys often appreciate the added protection from a high-strength sump pump. A pump with 2 HP can handle anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 gallons per hour, which is why it’s important to check each product’s specifications.

3 HP Sump Pump Price

The average cost of a 3 HP sump pump is $300 to $500. Large homes with considerable flooding concerns may benefit from a 3 HP sump pump. These heavy-duty, high-capacity sump pumps are more expensive, but they can handle upwards of 7,000 gallons per hour. A 3 HP sump pump should have a smooth operation and a backup system to handle all that water just in case.

Average Cost of Sump Pump by Brand

Several leading sump pump brands are available on the market. The brand you go with may impact the quality, type, and capabilities of a sump pump. Something else to think about is that brands may offer differing levels of support in terms of installation, maintenance, and warranty. Some brands are less expensive but may not provide the same assistance with maintenance and warranty. Looking at the average cost for sump pumps by brand is very important. Costs range anywhere from $130 to $750. Here are some of the leading sump pump brands and the average cost for a new submersible sump pump.

FloTec Sump Pump

The average price for a FloTec sump pump is $130 to $200. Sometimes you can find bargains for less than $100. FloTec is a cost-effective choice for basement sump pumps. The company makes both pedestal and submersible sump pumps with zinc, thermoplastic, and cast iron construction. Both the tethered and vertical sump pumps can have a relatively good capacity with upwards of 3,000 GPH and a heat-resistant finish. Both automatic and manual operation modes are available with a high-performance, energy-efficient permanent split capacitor motor.

Wayne Sump Pump Cost

The average price for a Wayne sump pump is $150 to $250, depending on the capacity. Wayne sump pumps are on the more budget-friendly side too. The company specializes in sump pumps and basement protection systems, sewer pumps, and lawn pumps. You can choose from cast iron, thermoplastic, or a combination of both when buying a Wayne sump pump. The company offers battery backup systems for more comprehensive protection in areas with significant rain and flood risks.

Everbilt Sump Pump

The average cost for an Everbilt sump pump is $230 to $350. Everbilt is a hardware line from Home Depot, selling building materials and supplies in addition to sump pumps. This brand is more affordable than some of the others on the market. Many homeowners trust this brand and find it’s good value for the money thanks to a heavy-duty cast iron construction and a strong vertical lift. Aluminum sump pumps with a tethered or vertical switch are available too. Several different horsepower pump options are available.

Zoeller Sump Pump Cost

Zoeller offers different sump pumps to suit various properties and locations. On average, Zoeller sump pumps cost between $240 and $375. Zoeller is a common name brand in the sump pump industry. The company is known for both residential and commercial submersible pumps that are watertight and corrosion-resistant. Bronze or cast iron switch cases and sleeve bearings support the efficient design. You can choose from an engineered thermoplastic or a cast iron base.

Watchdog Sump Pump

The average price for a Watchdog sump pump is from $300 to $450. Watchdog is another popular sump pump brand. The company offers many sump pump sizes, although the ⅓, ½, and 1 HP are top sellers. You can choose from cast iron, cast aluminum, stainless steel, or thermoplastic construction and consider features like a built-in ⁴ tether switch or a dual float switch surrounded by a protective cage. These sump pumps have backup options to turn on in case the power or main pump fails.

PitBoss Sump Pump Cost

On average, homeowners pay at least $350 to $550 for a PitBoss sump pump. PitBoss sump pumps are known for their deluxe design, incorporating both cast-iron and stainless steel for a long-lasting solution. These sump pumps are energy efficient with a 5 amp motor and an innovative top suction to minimize air-locking and clogging. The PitBoss float switch was recently redesigned and tested to rate one million cycles. The deluxe kit includes the float switch, silencer check valve, and boot along with the pump. This pump ⁵ is at the higher end of the price range, thanks to its premium design and features.

TripleSafe Sump Pump Cost

As the name suggests, the TripleSafe sump pump offers triple protection in the form of three separate pumps that work together to protect your house from flooding. The added protection explains the greater price as homeowners pay at least $500 to $750 on average for a TripleSafe sump pump. The first pump is a heavy-duty ⅓ HP Zoeller pump made from cast-iron. This is the primary pump with a capacity of 2,600 gallons of water every hour. The second pump switches on automatically if a primary pump fails or if more pumping volume is required. This pump can up the capacity to 6,200 GPH. The third pump is battery-operated and engages automatically if the power goes off.

Sump Pump Installation Cost

Labor costs for a sump pump can be anywhere from $300 to $4,000, depending on the amount of time and equipment involved. Putting in a standard pedestal sump pump ³ requires less digging and prep work than a submersible sump pump. Your plumbing professional may also help source the sump pump to ensure an accurate fit. Depending on the company, they may give you a deal if you get your sump pump from them. Plumbers typically charge between $45 and $200 per hour for sump pump installations. The final amount depends on the project’s complexity. Every company is different, so it’s important to check with them on their processes and recommendations for sump pumps at your property.

The type of floor for the sump pump is also an important factor and affects the labor costs. The cost to bury the sump pump discharge pipe could be anywhere from $250 to $2,000, depending on the difficulty of the job. Because sump pumps are installed in basements, they are often placed on dirt or gravel floors that are fairly easy to dig through and build a sump pit. However, a cement floor can take longer to dig through and increase the labor costs by one to three hours. However, the cement floor provides a sturdy foundation for the sump pump. The cost of your sump pump installation also depends on the flooring you have in your basement. If there is no existing sump pump in your house, your contractor will need to dig through the basement flooring to install the new submersible sump pump. Decades ago, when gravel was one of the top flooring materials, this was a relatively easy process. Nowadays, as cement and concrete take over as the most popular flooring types, putting in a submersible sump pump requires a jackhammer to access the ground below the floor. This additional labor tacks on cleanup costs, too, which is why it’s more common to pay around $700 to $1,600 to install a submersible sump pump in concrete or cement flooring.

Sump Pump Basin Installation

The average cost of sump pump basin installation is $100 to $600. If there is already a sump pump basin in your house, this cost is not required for a sump pump installation or replacement project. The installation process for the sump pump basin includes drilling a pit for the water. Before this can begin, the plumber must identify the lowest level in the house as a suitable spot for the basin. Depending on the flooring surface in the basement, this may require a jackhammer and other drilling equipment. The plumber will need to clear out the dirt to create the basin and connect it with the rest of the drainage system and the new sump pump.

Sump Pump Replacement Cost

On average, homeowners pay between $350 and $700 to replace a sump pump. The process for replacing an entire sump pump takes at least several hours or longer, depending on the flooring surface and the new sump pump requirements. The good news about replacing a sump pump is plumbers usually don’t need to do as much prep work as they would with an entirely new installation. That’s because the sump pump basin and pipework should already be in place. With the reservoir and drainage system ready to be used again, sump pump replacement costs are lower than the prices for new installations.

A few signs let you know you need a new sump pump. These include a strong foul odor, excessive noise, or standing water in your home. If your existing sump pump is constantly needing repairs and only works for a short while before requiring more maintenance, then it may be time for a replacement. Something else to think about is the age of your existing sump pump. If you live in an older home with a sump pump that’s been in use for 20 or 30 years, it may be nearing the time for replacement.

Average Cost of Sump Pump by Location

Sump pumps are almost always installed in either the basement or crawl space. While basement sump pumps are most common, not all homes have one, and some homeowners may choose to do a crawl space sump pump installation instead. Overall, the costs to install sump pumps in either place are very similar, between $650 and $1,600. Basement flooring may require slightly more labor than the dirt of a crawl space. The average costs of a sump pump depending on the location are highlighted in the table below.

Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation Cost

For straightforward installations, the average prices of crawl space projects are very similar to basement sump pump installations, around $650 to $1,500. For houses that don’t have a traditional basement, a sump pump may be installed in the crawl space instead. This area between the first floor and the ground is usually tight, small, and cramped, but it can be a good place to put a sump pump away from the rest of the living area. The main difference between basement and crawl space sump pumps is that a crawl space pump may be easier to install if it just needs to be positioned in soft dirt. A basement submersible sump pump that requires a professional to drill through the flooring and repair any damaged materials would cost more. The small size of crawl spaces means it may take more time and careful planning to complete a sump pump installation.

Basement Sump Pump Installation Cost

The average cost for installing a sump pump in the basement is between $700 and $1,600, depending on the complexity of the job and how much work has to be done. Most sump pumps are installed in basements, as the pumps need to be positioned at the lowest point in the house to collect and distribute water adequately to prevent flooding issues. As the most common spot to install sump pumps, the basement typically connects to the rest of the plumbing system and has space for either a pedestal or submersible sump pump. The process for installing a sump pump in the basement includes creating the sump pit if it is not there already and connecting the sump pump with the pipes.

Average Cost to Run a Sump Pump

Several sump pump power options are available. The cost to run the sump pump differs depending on the power type. Battery-powered sump pumps are slightly more expensive due to the electricity required compared to water-powered sump pumps. A combination system that includes both sources of power for backup costs slightly more. While the electricity and water bills depend on the horsepower and the rest of your electrical consumption, the average cost of running a battery-powered sump pump is between $30 and $75 per month, compared to $20 to $60 for a water-powered sump pump. Monthly operation of a green sump pump with combination power averages $35 to $80. Below is a general estimate of how much each different type of sump pump costs to run per hour.

Do I Need a Sump Pump?

While not all homes need sump pumps, most homeowners like to have them even if they don’t live in a high-risk flood zone or have a basement where standing water can accumulate and eventually cause damage. All homes have appliances, and they could be at risk of flooding if there is a malfunction. A burst pipe or overflowing washing machine could lead to a backup of water. The sump pump will be there to do its job and collect water from the lowest level of the home to draw it away from the house. If in doubt about whether or not you need a sump pump, consider any previous flooding or water damage issues. Also, think about the weather and how common flooding is in your region. If you are at all concerned about flooding or water backing up into your home, the reassurance of a sump pump may be well worth it.

How Many Sump Pumps Do I Need?

In most cases, a homeowner only needs one sump pump for their residence. Generally, multiple sump pump setups are reserved for larger commercial buildings and public establishments. However, some situations require a homeowner to have more than one sump pump, and that’s if they have a large home over 4,000 square feet or live in a flood zone. While one sump pump is normally sufficient, some homeowners prefer to have the peace of mind of two sump pumps, especially if the size of the house or the square footage of the basement is larger than average.

Another consideration for multiple sump pumps is if the volume of water is higher due to the geographical location. Homeowners who live in areas with a lot of rain may need a sump pump and a backup. If you live in an area prone to flooding or if you store valuables in the basement, you may want to install two sump pumps side by side. This scenario doubles your water removal speeds and gives you a full-power backup if the first pump goes down. Many contractors offer a discount when installing two sump pumps at once. The average backup sump pump cost with two units next to each other is $1,500 to $2,500.

Sump Pump Inspection Cost

The average cost of a sump pump inspection is between $100 and $350, depending on your system’s complexity. Homeowners have their sump pump inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional plumber or home inspector. They test the sump pump to see how well it pumps water and how quickly it starts the pumping and draining process after the sump pump is engaged. They pay attention to any signs of issues with the sump pump, such as worn or malfunctioning components. A sump pump inspection should cover all parts of the sump pump, from the liner and float switch to the check valve and floor drain. During the inspection, the inspector should comment on any signs of wear and tear, unusual odors, or operational issues.

Sump Pump Insurance

Like many aspects of your home, sump pumps ¹ can be insured. This insurance can cover the cost of sump pump repairs, replacements, and backup systems, depending on the policy and insurance provider. Some home insurance plans include sump pump coverage. However, some do not. Do your research and ask your insurance provider any questions you may have. Total sump pump failure may not be covered by insurance. Some homeowners add a rider to their policy. The average cost of sump pump insurance ranges from $50 to $250 on top of your annual premium for homeowners insurance.

Sump Pump Maintenance Cost

The average cost for professional sump pump maintenance by an experienced plumber is $100 to $300. If there are any additional repairs needed on top of that, you may need to budget around $200 to $500 to fix the problems. To properly maintain a sump pump, homeowners should conduct routine maintenance every three to four months in addition to a larger, comprehensive check every year. Regular maintenance is worthwhile as it keeps sump pumps in good condition so they can last longer. You may want to do a test of the sump pump every once in a while, just checking to see if the pedestal is still upright with a freely floating ball indicating everything is in working order. A submersible pump is a bit harder for homeowners to maintain due to its position below the surface. It is a good idea to call in a professional at least annually, if not quarterly, for a quick check. Keep an eye out for warning signs that maintenance needs to be performed, such as failure to properly run or drain, excessive operation even when there’s no water to be pumped, continuous loud noises, and foul smells.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Sump Pump Battery Backup Cost

In the case of a power outage, a sump pump may stop working. A battery-powered backup costs anywhere from $150 to $1,500, depending on the brand/quality. It can be easily installed in an emergency to start the sump pump working again to remove excess water.

Sump Pump Filter

A sump pump filter can help keep smaller debris and particles from entering the system and potentially causing damage. Plumbers recommend using sump pump filters to protect the integrity of the pump and help it last for longer. It’s a relatively easy way to try and get the most use out of your sump pump. These filters average $15 to $35.

Sump Pump Water Alarm

A sump pump alarm monitors the water levels in your house and gives a warning when the levels are in danger of triggering the sump pump. These systems typically are installed by the sump pump or a tub or sink and cost $15 to $30 each. More advanced systems can cost up to $100.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Sump pumps: A mechanical device used to remove water from wet areas such as basements and crawlspaces in order to help prevent flooding

³ Pedestal sump pump: A mechanical device that stands on a supportive base and is used to remove water from wet areas, such as basements and crawlspaces, in order to help prevent flooding

⁴ Built-in: An item of furniture, such as a bookcase or set of cabinets, that is built directly into the structure of the room. Built-ins are therefore customized to the room and not detachable

⁵ Pumps: A device used to move air, liquid, or gas by mechanical means