Sump Pump Installation – The Basics

Adding a sump pump to your home is a great way to remove excess humidity. It also helps with indoor air quality and keeps your basement dry. A sump pump is a permanent addition to your home. However, there are certain things you must consider before installing one.

The first step in installing a sump pump is to make sure you have enough room. In most cases, this is a basement or crawl space. You should also ensure that you have sufficient power, since sump pumps run on electricity. It’s best to connect the pump to a GFCI outlet. This can help prevent electricity shocks. Extension cords are also an issue, since they can damage the insulation in your home.

Next, you need to get the right type of sump pump. There are two main types: a submersible pump and a dry well pump. Each type has its own set of benefits. Submersible pumps pump water to a detention pone or storm drain, while dry well pumps pump water to the dry well. Depending on your needs, you can choose between the two.

You also need to make sure you have enough space for the float valve, which is the main control mechanism for the sump pump. The float valve must be able to move freely up and down. If the float valve is jammed or not working properly, your sump pump will not work.

After you have your sump pump in place, you should test it to see if it will work. The pump should be level, and it should drain water without jerking or wobbling. If the pump is not working, it should be checked for obstructions, such as wet/dry vacuums.

You will also need a hose to connect to your home’s exterior. You can use J-hooks to hang the pipes from joists in your basement. Once you have your hose in place, you will need to thread it through the pump and out the discharge pipe. Los Angeles Plumber You will then need to tighten the union to ensure a good fit.

Next, you’ll need to install a check valve and discharge pipe. The check valve is designed to channel water away from the sump and into a hose that connects to the exterior of the house. The discharge pipe must fit under the check valve and should be smooth to prevent leaks. You’ll need to cut the piping to the right size, and you’ll need to make sure that the fittings are sized correctly.

After you have completed all the required steps, you should have a sump pump that works. You’ll also need to make sure you check it frequently to ensure it works properly. You can perform a quick test on your own, but a professional plumber can ensure that your pump is functioning correctly. You should also make sure that the float switch is working correctly.

Finally, you’ll want to seal off the holes in your outside walls. This can be done with silicone sealant.