How To Replace A Sump Pump
A sump pump is an important part of any home with a basement that experiences dampness or flooding. When the foundation of the house is below the water table, the basement is susceptible to flooding and a sump pump is needed to help offset this issue. A sump pump works by removing water that has built up in the sump basin. The sump pump transports the water away from the house and to a place which will not send the water right back, such as a storm drain or a well. Learn how to replace a sump pump.
Should your sump pump break, it is important to address the problem immediately to avoid any serious water-related damage to your home. Putting off changing your sump pump when flooding is happening can cause a greater problem with a much more expensive fix. The process of replacing the sump pump is relatively simple with some clear instructions and the right tools, so do not wait.
You Will Need:
How To Replace A Sump Pump - Steps By Step Guide
Step One: Assess Your Situation
Is there already a flood? Is it safe to go forward with the removal of the old pump? Considering turning off electricity to your basement before going forwards for optimal safety. Make sure there has been no structural damage to your basement from flooding and the environment is safe to work in. Remove any water from the area.
Step Two: Remove the Broken Sump Pump
Before starting, turn off the power to the old pump if you have turned off all power to your basement. Unplug it from the wall so that removing the pump is safe. Then, take your piers and disconnect the discharge line entering the pump. It is possible you may need help so considering asking a relative or a friend to assist you.
Step Three: Replace the Pump and Level the New One
Once the old or broken pump is taken away, replace it. Put your new pump in the pit and make sure it is level. Should it be un-level, use shims to correct the leveling of your sump pump. This is important for the functionality of the pump. Should it not be done, the pump will not work correctly. However, while doing this, make sure the pump’s float is not obstructed. Obstruction will also cause the sump pump to not function correctly.
Step Four: Assess if You Need a New Discharge Line
If you’re old Discharge line works and doesn’t need to be changed, go forwards with attaching it. If you need a new drainage pipe, keep in mind that most units need a 1 ½-inch or 1 ¼-inch PVC pipe. Make sure to check that you have the right size piping for your unit. Once sizing is determined, cut a new discharge line with the tubing cutter and extra PVC pipe.
Step Five: Connect the Discharge Pipe to the Main Discharge Line
Use PVC glue to conceal the pieces of piping together. After, use plumber’s tape to secure the pipe to the wall. After the piping is all put together, connect the discharge pipe to the main line. Make sure the pump will carry the water away from the house with this line. Preferably to empty the water out in a storm drain or well away from your home.
Step Six: Test the Sump Pump
Pour a bucket of water, around four or five gallons, into the liner. Plug in the pump and make sure that it turns on and pumps the water away from your home. Once you are sure the pump is working correctly, close everything up and put the excess material into storage incase it is needed in the future.
Conclusion
it is fairly simple to replace a sump pump and have it working again like nothing happened. Remember, always assess your environment. Make sure the situation is safe to perform an installation and make sure to read the information about your sump pump. Get the necessary tools for the job. Once you are sure you can start, replacing a sump pump is really simple and with these few simple steps, you can enjoy a flood-free basement.
