If yourbasement has water problems, a sump pump can help remedy the problem.
Most sump pumps are relatively inexpensive.
bang out of Sump Pump to Buy
Choose thebest sump pumpfor your home’s basement.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
Carefully observe where water collects after heavy rains.
Mark this area on the floor.
Stay at least 10 inches from the walls to avoid damaging the foundation footing.
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The area must be relatively close to the side of the house where the discharge pipe will exit.
What Is a Dry Well?
If using a dry well, ensure to position it a suitable distance away from the foundation.
The Spruce / Margot Cavin
Apply for an electrical permit andinstall the GFCI outletyourself or call an electrician.
Use a flat spade bit for better accuracy when breaking up the hole.
Use a narrow spade or a fence post digger.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The top of the sump pump’s basin must be flush with the floor surface.
Set the Sump Pump in the Basin
Set the sump pump in the basin.
The basin is the removable plastic or metal outer shell that encases the sump pump.
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Set the Sump Pump in the Sump Pit
Set the sump basin in the sump pit.
Level the gravel in the excavation to about 1 inch below the floor surface.
Fill the remainder of the excavation with concrete.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Smooth the surface of the concrete level to the surrounding floor with a trowel.
Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours.
roll out the Discharge Pipe
Connect a short vertical length of PVC pipe to the sump pump.
It should reach the height of the intended penetration in the side of the house.
Glue a 90-degree PVC elbow to the short pipe.
Add another length of pipe.
drop in the Check Valve
drop in the check valve onto the PVC discharge pipe.
plant the Gate Valve
Install another short length of PVC pipe, then plant the gate valve.
The gate valve is a manual shut-off valve.
Seal around the hole in the rim joist with exterior-grade caulk.
Fill the basin with water.
Test the pump for proper operation.
The pump should turn on automatically when the water reaches a level that lifts the float on the pump.
The pump should turn off when the water level drops.
Adjust the float level of the pump as directed by the manufacturer.
Installing a sump pump typically requires a plumber and an electrician.
But an experienced, motivated DIYer can also handle the job.
A sump pump can be installed in a finished basement.
Any floor covering on or around the intended sump pump location must be removed.
Other measures must be taken to prevent the water from entering the basement.
Water on the floor does not identify where the leak is coming from.
The systems are located at perimeter foundation walls and direct water to the sump pit.
This assessment may require calling in a professional.
Maintain Your Sump Pump.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
How Much Does Sump Pump Installation Cost?The Old House.
