How Much Does It Cost to Replace or Install a Sump Pump?

Whether you are planning to install a new sump pump or thinking of replacing the older one, it is good to have an idea of how much expense you are getting yourself into. Without the proper knowledge, you can end up paying more than you need to.

So, here’s how you can get started:

• In the case of replacements, take a look at the extent of damages
• Make a list of necessary parts you need
• Factor in the cost of each part
• Include additional labor cost and time

Now you can also have your local plumber take a look and give you an estimate about the changes, but he will charge you for his expertise. Or you can get everything that you need to know right here.

Sump Pump Installation Cost Cheat Sheet

Note: All the costs mentioned here are subject to change based on a number of variables. All expenses can change based on regions, different plumbing groups, distance, property type, drainage pipe condition. Regardless, the cheat sheet serves to give you a rough idea about the costs associated with the installation of sump pump systems. However, you should bear in mind that it may jump up or skid down.

Taking a Look at a Few Real-Life Example

Sump Pump Installation Cost

On average, install a sump pump can cost you from a range of $490 to $1,170. The value can, however, either increase or decrease, depending on the circumstances.

For example, if you already have the sump pump and the drainage systems laid out, the replacements will cost you roughly $490, including labor costs. But, if you have the skills and experience to make a sump pump replacement yourself, then the cost gets cut down to about half the expense, which is around $280.

On the other hand, if you are setting it up from scratch, let’s say, a new pump along with new pipework, then you are looking at a spending range of $2,500- $5,500, including the cost of labor and parts.

Again, these amounts can vary depending on the model of the pump, drainage systems, and the type of basement floor plan. So, if you are installing long drainage pipes, the cost can shoot up to $10,000 – $15,000.

Cost To Replace Sump Pump

If you are looking to simply replace the existing pump, then it is much easier for you. This is because you don’t have to bear the cost of setting up the drainage system. Replacing the pump can come up to $800. But, if it is the entire system, the cost amounts to $4,000, including the electrical installations and carpentry.

Also, it is better to choose a model that is of the same size and has the same horsepower and for some suggestions, you can read our article on heavy-duty cast-iron sump pumps.  This will save you from installing wider discharge pipes.

· Enhancing older pump

Instead of replacing your previous pump, you can also install a secondary pump to boost the capabilities of the previous one.

• Install a battery-backup sump pump. This will allow your pump to run even during a power outage.
• Get an alarm for the sump pump. This way, you will be aware of the rise in the water level in the pit.
• Use a pump filter to drain out the dirt and debris.
• Cover the sump pit with a radon lid and install an exit gas pipeline.

· Replacing float switch

If you notice that your float switch isn’t signaling the pump to switch on then, chances are, you will need a new one.  The lowest cost of a float switch is around $35, that is, excluding service charges.

· Replacing check valve

The cost of a check valve is $15- $30. It can seem insignificant and an unnecessary expense, but it does play an important role. The valve is installed at the junction of the pump’s discharge pipe and the tube. When the pump is inactive, the valve prevents the backflow of dispersed water into the pit. So, the valve gets damaged during operation to stop the water from flowing back into the pit and increasing the workload of the pump. The process strains the valve and burns out.

Factors That Affect Installation Costs

Setting up a sump pump in the basement is never an easy task. There are many factors that affect the cost to install.

· Basement floor type

The cost can vary based on the type of basement flooring you have:

• Dirt floor – You can easily dig out the sump pit with a minimal cost of about $300 to $500, depending on the depth of the pipes.
• Concrete Floor – It is costlier and is labor-intensive. You will need extra equipment like a concrete saw or a jackhammer to break through the floor. Also, finishing around the sump basin with new concrete will add more to the bill.

· Drainage system

Choosing the right pipe size is very important while planning for the drainage systems. The entire process involves digging up about 24 inches wide earth and concrete out from your basement.

It is followed by adding gravel and then layering it with drain tiles, after which you install the pit. And then, finally finishing it off by adding concrete around the sides. If you have pre-existing drainage, then replacing it will average cost from $4,000 up to $12,000.

· Sump pit

Many homeowners prefer to have a natural sump basin by simply digging a hole into their basement. But, if you want to have a plastic pit, then go for the one that doesn’t buckle or collapse. A 17-inch basin costs about $23, and a 30-inch one can be for $30. However, if you want a durable one, then choose a tall, heavy-duty basin. The price of this type can be about $60.

· Pump quality

Different types of pumps have different price ranges. The question that arises here is: quality or quantity? For example, a cast-iron pump is twice as expensive as a plastic one, but, in terms of quality, it’s much superior to the other. Even in the case of pedestal pumps, you can either get the cheapest one for $60, with 1/3HP, or the top-quality one for about $500, with 1/2 HP along with a backup pump.

· Horsepower

The horsepower depends on the amount of water pumped out and the distance the water has to flow before it gets drained off at a designated area. Usually, a 1/3 H/P can get the job done easily. It can cost you between $180-$200. But, if you are looking for a more powerful one such as ½ HP, it can go for up to $250.

· Labor cost

Generally, plumbing services can surmount to about $45-$80 per hour. Since the installation of the pump requires 8 to 10 hours of work, the bill would come up to $360- $800. Also, if you are living on the outskirts of the city, your serviceman may charge you an extra $100- $150 for the mileage.

Cost of Sump Pump By type

There are four different types of pumps you can go for.

· Pedestal sump pump

A pedestal-type sump pump is economically feasible for anyone living on a budget. It is much cheaper than submersible pumps. It can cost within the range of $60- $170. Because it is placed on top of the sump pit, it is easily accessible. And if well-maintained, they can last for up to 20 years.

· Submersible pump

Submersible pumps are relatively more expensive. Cost you about $60- $420 (or more). The pump is heavy-duty but is quiet during operation. Since it is placed underwater, the motor does not get overheated. Also, It does not require any storage space.

· Battery-powered backup pump

The sump pump with battery backup is a secondary sump pump that can be attached to the main one. Since it uses batteries (deep-cycle batteries), the pump can run steadily for hours during power outages.

A brand new one can cost you roughly $150 – $500. The installation is easy, and the pump can be used in different types of houses.

· Water-powered pump

A water-powered sump pump relies on the water pressure from the municipal supply for operation. It does not need any batteries and can run for an unlimited amount of time. They come in the range of $100-$390.

Sump Pump Sizing

The size of your pump depends on the amount of water it has to draw out every time there is a storm. If the water load is too much for your pump to handle then, it’s time to upgrade for one with more horsepower.

• 1/4 HP – if your basement rarely floods, then you don’t need a heavy-duty pump. These types of pumps are available in the range of $60 to $170.
• 1/3 HP – A majority of the homeowners prefer this size pump. They are available between $60 to $500.
• 1/2 HP – these are heavy-duty pumps. They can draw about 3000 gallons per hour. They cost about $90 to $340.

How Long Does It Take to Install?

Normally, the installation of a sump pump can take up to 8 to 10 hours. However, it depends on a few variables, such as the proximity of the pump to the electrical unit, the depth of the concrete, and also the length of the drain.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have an idea about the cost estimation of each and every part needed for the pump replacement and installation of your sump pump system, you can easily tally it with your budget and make your decision. Sump pumps can choke your wallet, but there is no way around it.

You have it install to save yourself from water damage. However, having a rough idea of how much green you need would save you from any unpleasant surprises. We hope this article had all the information you wanted regarding the installation of the sump pump and replacement expenses.