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Pumps How-To Guides

Step-by-step how-to guides for pumps maintenance, repair, and installation.

All Pumps Guides 4

How to Test Your Sump Pump

easy

Test your sump pump in 10 minutes -- verify it activates, pumps, and shuts off, plus inspect the float switch, check valve, discharge line, and backup system.

10 - 15 minutes $0
What you need: 5-gallon bucket (for pouring water into the pit) Flashlight (for inspecting the pit and pump) Long screwdriver or stick (for testing float switch movement) Level (optional, for checking pump position)

How to Install a Sump Pump

hard

Install or replace a sump pump for reliable basement flood protection -- pump selection, pit prep, check valve, discharge line routing, and the testing routine that keeps it working.

2 - 4 hours $200 - $600 for pump + materials
What you need: Sump pump (submersible, 1/3 HP or 1/2 HP) Check valve with rubber couplings and hose clamps 1-1/2 inch PVC pipe and fittings (elbows, couplings) PVC cement and primer (for permanent pipe joints) Hacksaw or PVC cutter (for cutting pipe to length) Drill with hole saw (for drilling through rim joist or foundation) Gravel (2-3 inches for pit bottom) Sump pit liner (if installing a new pit) Level (for checking pump and pit alignment) Garden hose or buckets (for testing the pump)

How to Install a Recirculation Pump

moderate

Stop wasting water waiting for it to get hot -- install a recirculation pump using a dedicated return line or a comfort valve system (no new piping), with timer and sensor options.

1 - 3 hours $150 - $400 for pump + fittings
What you need: Adjustable wrench (for supply line and pump connections) Teflon tape (for threaded connections) Recirculation pump kit with bypass valve and timer Phillips screwdriver (for timer programming and mounting) Bucket and towels (for residual water when disconnecting pipes) Flashlight (for working under sinks)

How to Replace a Sump Pump

moderate

Remove a failed sump pump and install a new one. Covers sizing, pit prep, discharge connections, and float switch setup. Prevent basement flooding before it happens.

1 - 2 hours $100 - $400 for the pump; $300 - $800 with a plumber
What you need: Replacement sump pump (matched to GPH, HP, and head pressure) Check valve (if not included with pump) PVC pipe and fittings or rubber coupling (for discharge connection) Channel-lock pliers or adjustable wrench Hacksaw or PVC cutter (if cutting discharge pipe) PVC cement and primer (if using glued connections) Bucket (for testing and bailing) Shop vacuum (optional, for cleaning pit)