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 system. The answer depends on each property’s requirements and structural design. A pedestal unit sets the pump on a tall stand so that it isn’t directly in the water in the 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 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 cost.

Pedestal Sump Pump Prices

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 it on. One of the main advantages 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, with an average cost of around $135 to $300 just for the pump alone. This unit is submerged under the surface rather than readily accessible above the ground. 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 options. Another advantage 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 unit itself, maintenance, and flooding conditions.

Sump Pump Price by Power Type

With pedestal and submersible sump pumps, you need to think about the power type. They 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 system has water coursing through the pipe at a high enough speed to produce suction to empty the sump pit. On that is battery-powered can be used in the majority of homes. Here are the average costs by power type, ranging from $120 to $500 based on whether you choose a battery or a water-powered system or a combination of the two.

Water-Powered Sump Pump Cost

A water-powered sump pump costs $120 to $300 on average. It 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 system makes sense because they don’t have to pay for extra electricity and have access to what they need. Other pros of this kind of unit include the technically unlimited run time and low maintenance without the battery. Some cons are that homes without wells cannot use them. 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. They run 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 system and keep it operating smoothly. The biggest advantage is that almost every home can use them, unlike the water-powered units 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. While the installation is typically straightforward, one drawback is the limited run time and battery life.

Combination Sump Pump Prices

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

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. One of the main considerations of these types of systems is gallons per hour or GPH. This measurement tells you a lot about the size and capacity and how much water it can effectively pump per hour. Understanding this number is important so that you can consider the options with the capacity to handle your requirements. If you live somewhere with a very low risk of flooding, you don’t necessarily need one with the same GPH as a homeowner who lives in a valley that floods often. A system that runs 3,000 GPH accommodates much less water than a 10,000 GPH unit, 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 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 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.

It’s necessary to have the appropriate amount of horsepower so that the system 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 unit and home have unique requirements, and the total capacity depends on its type, power source, design, and brand. The average costs are outlined below.

0.25 HP

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 system is the lowest and most affordable of the HP options. It pumps water slowly and steadily compared to other alternatives 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

The average cost for a 0.33 HP sump pump is $110 to $270. The costs for this power are not that much more than a 0.25 HP unit. The total price of your unit depends on the GPH and material. However, you can expect this type 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. It 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 them 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. These units can take on 2,500 to 5,500 gallons per hour based on the brand and construction. This size i​s 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 them, 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 system. They 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 for this size is $300 to $500. Large homes with considerable flooding concerns may benefit from a 3 HP sump pump. These heavy-duty, high-capacity units are more expensive, but they can handle upwards of 7,000 gallons per hour. They should have a smooth operation and a backup system to handle all that water just in case.

4 HP Sump Pump

A 4 HP sump pump costs $525 to $800 and can easily remove up to 11,000 gallons of water per hour. It is not commonly found in homes. If you have a home with a large basement and the home is in an area that sees regular flooding, such as a low-lying area or hurricane zone, then this heavier-duty option may be necessary.

5 HP Sump Pump Price

A 5 HP sump pump ranges from $600 to $925. The cost depends on the chosen features and whether you choose a residential or commercial grade option. Most models with this horsepower remove up to 15,000 gallons of water per hour. Most homeowners will not need this much power. However, if you have a home where the yard sees lots of standing water regularly and your basement floods often, it can be a good option to protect your foundation.

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. They can be constructed using several different materials, which may be more suitable for certain situations and vary in cost from $75 to $300, for a ¼ HP to 1 ½ HP sump pump, which are the most commonly installed models. Plastic, cast iron, and stainless steel are the most common materials. The table below highlights the average cost for a submersible system of that material, not including installation.

Plastic Sump Pump

The average price for a plastic sump pump is $75 to $200. These are less expensive than their cast iron or stainless steel counterparts. Plastic can be used for both submersible and pedestal types. 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 system hopefully won’t need to work overtime.

Cast Iron Sump Pump

Homeowners pay $150 to $300 on average for cast iron units. Cast iron is another popular choice 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 options. A cast iron unit may last 10 to 25 years when properly maintained. Keep in mind that it is much heavier than a plastic one. A professional will definitely be needed to install and maintain it properly. They 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 unit 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. It very rarely warps, cracks, or breaks. This rust-resistant material is ideal for water-based applications.

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 the unit. 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 by brand is very important. Costs range anywhere from $130 to $750. Here are some of the leading brands and the average cost for a new submersible unit.

WaterAce Sump Pump

If you are looking to install a WaterAce Sump Pump, you can expect to pay $100 to $200. This brand tends to sell smaller pumps, with most being ⅓ HP or ½ HP. They are a great option for those who have minor but consistent water in their basement due to rain, and most of their systems can handle up to 3,000 gallons of water which is ample for most homeowners.

Superior Pump Sump Pump

The cost of a Superior Pump system for your home runs from $100 to $250 for the unit alone. They offer a wide range of options, allowing homeowners to find the exact product they need for their homes. You can choose from models made of cast iron, stainless steel, or thermoplastic and have the option of either a vertical or piggyback tether float. They can easily clear up to 3,000 gallons of water or more per hour and are known to be energy efficient.

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 systems. The company makes both pedestal and submersible alternatives with zinc, thermoplastic, and cast iron construction. Both the tethered and vertical options 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. They are on the more budget-friendly side too. The company specializes in these types of systems and basement protection systems, sewer pumps, and lawn pumps. You can choose from cast iron, thermoplastic, or a combination of both when buying from Wayne. The company offers battery backup systems for more comprehensive protection in areas with significant rain and flood risks.

Little Giant Sump Pump

A Little Giant Sump Pump costs homeowners between $175 and $350. The wide range in cost is primarily due to the availability of options ranging from ⅓ HP to 2 HP available from the brand. The brand is well-known for producing durable and reliable products designed to withstand the test of time. They specialize in cast iron systems or a combination of cast iron and polypropylene, which adds to their durability. When choosing the higher options, you can easily remove more than 5,000 gallons of water per hour.

Everbilt Sump Pump

The average cost for an Everbilt system 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 alternatives 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, they cost between $240 and $375. Zoeller is a common name brand in the 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.

Liberty Sump Pump

A Liberty sump pump would be on the higher end when it comes to cost, with most running from $250 to $550. They specialize in pumps from ⅓ HP to 1 HP, and their pumps feature a unique one-piece cast iron body design. This provides for added durability and longevity. All of their units include a quick-connect power cord with three different switch options. Depending on the model you choose, you can easily clear between 3,000 to 5,000 gallons of water per hour.

Watchdog Sump Pump

The average price for a Watchdog sump pump is from $300 to $450. Watchdog is another popular brand. The company offers many 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 have backup options to turn on in case the power or main pump fails.

PitBoss Sump Pump

On average, homeowners pay at least $350 to $550 for a PitBoss sump pump. They are known for their deluxe design, incorporating both cast-iron and stainless steel for a long-lasting solution. These systems 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. 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 unit. The first pump is a heavy-duty ⅓ HP Zoeller pump made from cast-iron. This is the primary system with a capacity of 2,600 gallons of water every hour. The second one switches on automatically if a primary system fails or if more pumping volume is required. This one can up the capacity to 6,200 GPH. The third one is battery-operated and engages automatically if the power goes off.

Labor Cost to Install a Sump Pump

Labor costs for a sump pump can be anywhere from $300 to $4,000, depending on the amount of time and equipment involved. The cost of installing a discharge line is included in the cost and is necessary for any installation. Putting in a standard pedestal system requires less digging and prep work than a submersible option. 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 unit from them. Plumbers typically charge between $45 and $200 per hour for these types of 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 your property.

The type of floor for the pump is also an important factor and affects the labor costs. The cost to bury the discharge pipe could be anywhere from $250 to $2,000, depending on the difficulty of the job. Because they 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.

Another factor that can affect the installation price is whether or not it is installed with or without a drainage system. They are most commonly installed with a drainage system when your basement or the area sees a lot of water. Installing a sump pump with a drainage system runs between $900 and $2,500. When the installation is without a drainage system, you will pay less, usually between $300 to $1,300. However, you will need to make sure it is installed in the lowest area of the basement to be effective.

Sump Pump Basin Installation

The average cost of a basin installation or installing a sump pump pit is $100 to $600. If there is already a basin in your house, you don't need to install a new one or replace the old one. The installation process for the 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 system. With almost every type of unit, you need to have a basin installed. The only models that do not require its inclusion are pumps referred to as floor suckers, which suck the water directly off the floor and are a much more rarely used option.

Sump Pump Inspection Cost

The average cost of an 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 unit to see how well it pumps water and how quickly it starts the draining process after the system is engaged. They pay attention to any signs of issues, such as worn or malfunctioning components. An inspection should cover all parts of the unit, 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 Replacement Cost

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

A few signs let you know you need a new pump. These include a strong foul odor, excessive noise, or standing water in your home. If your existing unit 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 system. If you live in an older home with a unit 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 it is more common to install them in the basement, not all homes have one, and some homeowners may choose to do a crawl space installation instead. Overall, the installation costs in either place are very similar, between $650 and $1,600, including the cost of installation. Basement flooring may require slightly more labor than the dirt of a crawl space. The average costs 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 installations. Sump pumps in a crawl space cost around $650 to $1,500. For houses that don’t have a traditional basement, it 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 it away from the rest of the living area. The main difference between basement and crawl space systems is that a crawl space one may be easier to install if it just needs to be positioned in soft dirt. A basement submersible unit 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 the 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 of them are installed in basements, as they 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 these systems, the basement typically connects to the rest of the plumbing system and has space for either a pedestal or submersible option. The installation process in the basement includes creating the sump pit if it is not there already and connecting the unit with the pipes.

Sump Pump in Garage

Installing a sump pump in your garage costs from $700 to $1,600. The cost is the same as installing one in the basement because the areas and installation processes are the same. Costs will be on the lower end if you have a garage floor that is dirt and will cost more if concrete has to be removed to complete the job. When installing a sump pump in the garage, the location is important. It needs to be installed a minimum of 10 inches from the garage walls to ensure that it is clear from the foundation and footers if the garage has them. It should be a safe distance from cars and close enough to be easily plugged into a power source without an extension cord.

Sump Pump in Bedroom

If you have a bedroom located in your basement, you can expect to pay anywhere between $800 and $1,600 to have a sump pump installed. They are slightly more expensive than installing a system in the unfinished area of your basement because the flooring will have to be removed to make space for the unit. Your installer may position the drain pipe out through an egress window or the bedroom door, depending on the setup. They are important in finished areas of the basement, especially those with carpet, which can lead to mold and mildew if they become wet.

Outdoor Sump Pump Installation Cost

Backyard sump pump costs run $900 to $1,400. They are a good investment if you have a yard that sees a lot of flooding. Too much water can ruin landscaping, cause soil shifting, and lead to an increase in bugs. Outdoor units cost more to install than other units because they typically are more costly pumps, needing to withstand more extremes in temperatures than indoor models.

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 system working again to remove excess water. Choosing to install a battery backup is a good option for homeowners who live in an area where frequent power outages accompany storms or areas where it takes the power a lot longer to be restored when it goes out, such as rural areas.

Without power, your sump pump will be unable to remove water, making it ineffective if the rain from a storm gets in the home. The only real drawback to having a battery backup installed is the cost that it adds to installation. For some homeowners, the cost is necessary to prevent significant water damage during a storm.

Average Cost to Run a Sump Pump

Several power options are available. The cost to run the sump pump differs depending on the power type. Battery-powered units are slightly more expensive due to the electricity required compared to water-powered options. 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 system is between $30 and $75 per month, compared to $20 to $60 for a water-powered alternative. Monthly operation of a green system with combination power averages $35 to $80. Below is a general estimate of how much each different type 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 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 one, 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 these systems 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 setups are reserved for larger commercial buildings and public establishments. However, some situations require a homeowner to have more than one, and that’s if they have a large home over 4,000 square feet or live in a flood zone. While one system is normally sufficient, some homeowners prefer to have the peace of mind of having two, especially if the size of the house or the square footage of the basement is larger than average.

Another consideration for multiple units 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 main system 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 units side by side. This scenario doubles your water removal speeds and gives you a full-power backup if the first one goes down. Many contractors offer a discount when installing two systems at once. The average backup cost with two units next to each other is $1,500 to $2,500.

Sump Pump Insurance Cost

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

Smart Sump Pump

Smart sump pumps are one of the latest innovations in technology and cost from $500 to $3,000 to install, depending on the location of the installation. When you choose a smart unit, it automatically comes with a battery backup. It can be used on its own or with another traditional unit, taking over if the first becomes overwhelmed or there is a power failure. They also provide homeowners with peace of mind since they can use a monitor app to connect to their smart system, which lets you monitor your battery life and ensure that it is working when needed. By pairing your smart sump pump with a smart outlet, you will receive a notification when the power to the outlet is down and turn it off or on directly from your smart device. These outlets also have high water sensors, alerting you to potential flooding. You can expect to pay $150 to $250 for one of these outlets. These systems are great for homeowners who want to monitor their systems and have them run as efficiently as possible. The main drawback is that they are only offered in smaller horsepower options, so they may have to be used with other pumps for larger areas.

Sump Pump Pros and Cons

Homeowners who have experienced water in their basements or live in areas that see heavy flooding likely have considered installing a sump pump. Still, they may not know all the pros and cons that come with the decision.

The main pro is that it effectively removes water from your basement, reducing the risk of water damage and chronic moisture that can cause mold and mildew. They actively and more effectively protect your basement from water versus the alternatives, such as waterproof coatings. Waterproof coatings may not fully keep water out, which may lead to a build up of moisture in the basement.

There are a few drawbacks as well. The first is that they require electricity to operate. This could mean they will stop working if the storm knocks out the power unless you have a generator. There is also a slight risk of radon exposure. A sump pit needs to be dug for the system to work. If you have had issues with radon before, there is a chance creating the hole could allow radon to get into your house.

Sump Pump Maintenance Cost

The average cost for professional maintenance by an experienced plumber is $100 to $300. The cleaning cost is often included in the price of maintenance. It involves your professional spraying off all loose debris, rinsing the pump, checking the durian valve, and vacuuming out the remaining standing water in your sump pit. 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 the units in good condition so they can last longer. You may want to do a test 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.

Sump Pump vs Sewage Pump

Sump pumps and sewage pumps are designed to remove water from areas such as basements, which often causes confusion between the two. The primary difference is what type of water each pump is designed to remove. Sewage ejector pumps are used to remove wastewater. Once wastewater in the systems basin reaches a certain level, the pump triggers on and transfers the wastewater into a reservoir. The reservoir will be either a septic tank or a city sewer line. The piping of these pumps is fitted to prevent the backflow of wastewater, leading to a hazard.

The primary difference between a sewage pump and a sump pump is not their function but their use. A sewage pump will only be used to handle sewage, but all homes can benefit from one to reduce the risk of sewage backing up in your home. Homes without sewage pumps may experience more clogged pipes and sewer gases leaking around the home. This one deals with ground and rainwater or condensation. However, it is only necessary for homes that have trouble with flooding or have a significant amount of moisture in their basements.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Filter

A sump pump filter can help keep smaller debris and particles from entering the system and potentially causing damage. Plumbers recommend using 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 system. These filters average $15 to $35.

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 system. They are typically installed by the 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