How to Install a Sump Pump: Do-it-yourself

Learn about tips on how to install a sump pump to run water away from your house

Things You'll Need:
Drill bits
Electric drill
Hammer
Pipe cutter
Pressure fittings
Wire ties
Gravel
PVC pipe
Corrugated pipe
Cement
Sump pimp
Check valve
J hooks
Increaser
Silicone sealeant
Fittings


Step 1: Select a Location
The first step to installing a sump pump is to locate a region where the water collects. This location has to be near a GFCI (Ground Fault Interrupter Outlet) for the sump pump to be plugged into. If you don't have a plug close to the site, have a licensed electrician install one. 

Step 2: Dig a Hole for the Sump
Dig a hole six inches deeper and 10 inches wider than the sump. Place three inches of gravel in the bottom of the hole. Position the sump into the hole.

Step 3: Add More Gravel
Stand in the sump, then pour more gravel around the sump keeping one or two inches at the top of the sump exposed. Now it is time to prepare the pump for operation.

Step 4: Connect the Adapters
Attach the male adapter to the PVC discharge pipe, then put into the female adapter on the pump. Using a 1/4 inch drill, make a hole into the discharge pipe six inches above the pump. This is called a weep hole, which allows water to flow back into the pump when it's shut off to keep it primed

Step 5: Install a Check Valve
Connect the pumps electrical cord to the discharge pipe using wire ties. Install a check valve on the open end of the discharge pipe. Place the pump into the sump and get ready to run the water out of the house. Be sure you use a check valve that is made for vertical operation. 

Step 6: Channel Water Away From the House
Use pressurized fittings and 1 1/2 inch PVC to channel water from the pump and away from the house.

Step 7: Run PVC Through the Wall
Install 'J' hooks to hang the PVC from the joists. Make a hole through the outside wall to run the PVC out. If you need to make a hole through a block wall, use a hammer to make the hole. Use a rotary hammer to break through brick. 

Step 8: Apply Sealant to the Hole
Apply silicone sealant into the hole where the pipe comes out of the house. Complete the connections so you can run the water at least four feet away from the house.

Step 9:  Spread Out the Water Flow
Attach a 1 1/2 inch by three inch increaser on the end of the pipe to spread out the water flow. Next, connect corrugated pipe to the PVC pipe. This would dispense the water even more.

Step 10:  Cover the Sump
Place gravel around the corrugated pipe to keep it in place. Plug in the pump. Place the cover over the sump.

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Park Mechanical Plumbing & Sewer
8324 Luzon Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95828
(916) 231-5681