Solved! Who Installs Sump Pumps?

Q: I have a basement in my home that is in need of a new sump pump. Who installs sump pumps? Should I call a plumber or someone else? 

A: A sump pump in the basement is often essential, so hiring the right person to install it is vital.  Because sump pumps help remove excess water from basements and can prevent flooding, you will likely want to forgo learning how to install a sump pump yourself and leave it to a professional. You can hire a plumber to install a sump pump. But who you ultimately choose to hire will depend on whether you’re replacing an old sump pump or installing one where there wasn’t one previously. The size of the job and any additional basement waterproofing measures can affect who you choose to hire. It may be wise to start by calling a plumber who installs sump pumps for a consultation and following their recommendations based on your specific needs.

Most plumbers can install sump pumps. 

Trained professionals should do basement sump pump installation since a leak or an improper installation could lead to property damage. If you’re just beginning the sump pump installation process or replacing a sump pump that’s not working, a plumber will be able to visit your home to assess the situation. Plumbers will generally visit your home for a free consultation and quote for the cost of the pump and labor, so you’ll know up front what the whole job will cost. Plumbers will also have all the necessary equipment should they face any challenges while installing the sump pump.

Basement waterproofing companies can install sump pumps and other forms of moisture management. 

Since sump pumps are specifically made to remove water from a basement, the best basement waterproofing companies employ technicians who have specialized training and knowledge to ensure your pump is installed correctly. The basement waterproofing technician may be a plumber, but they’ll specialize in this area of the home. Professionals from basement waterproofing companies will likely be able to identify the best place to install a pit for the pump. They’ll ensure the pit is the correct size for the pump and that the area is properly sealed to keep dirt and debris from entering over time. Hiring a basement waterproofing company is a good idea if you’re interested in other services the company may offer, such as foundation repair, vapor barriers, or dehumidification systems.

Sump pump installations can cost between $650 and $2,000. 

How much is a sump pump? Depending on the size of the sump pump and how much water it needs to remove, sump pump installation can cost anywhere from $650 to $2,000. Sump pump replacement costs will be lower than installing a sump pump in a basement that has never had one. The cost to install a sump pump includes the sump pump itself along with the cost of labor per hour and any other work that needs to happen, such as updating the drainage system or putting in a new sump pump basin. If you’re wondering, “How much does a sump pump cost?” the answer is anywhere from $60 to $400, depending on what type you need. Sump pump costs for pedestal pumps are lower than those for submersible pumps.

You’ll want to remember that you may also have to pay for specific permits to have a new sump pump installed, especially if contractors have to perform electrical or plumbing work. You’re also likely to pay more for sump pump service if you live in a more populated area than if you live in a more rural location.

If basement leaking or flooding is a problem, ensure the foundation is free from damage. 

Wall cracks, musty smells, and basement wall staining may indicate that basement leaking or flooding has affected your home’s foundation. Before installing a sump pump, it may be helpful to have the foundation checked first, especially if you’ve experienced recent flooding or leaking in your basement. If you notice cracks on the interior or exterior of your basement walls that are more than 4 inches long and wider than a quarter of a centimeter, you’ll want to consider hiring a structural or foundation engineer to inspect the foundation. They’ll be able to determine how severe the issue is and what your next steps should be.

Proper grading and downspout extensions will mean a sump pump has less work to do. 

You may be able to avoid a high sump pump installation cost by putting other measures in place to reduce the amount of work that’s put on your sump pump. It helps to make sure your yard is properly graded and that the gutters have downspout extensions. Proper grading directs the slope of the areas surrounding the outside of your home to drain water away from the property. Downspout extensions can help control rainwater drainage away from the foundation, preventing mold, mildew, and structural problems. If these two elements are in place, you may be able to avoid paying for a new sump pump. If you just installed a new one, these efforts could extend its lifespan.