How To Install Sump Pump In Flooded Basement

A sump pump is a device used to remove water from a basement or other low-lying area. It is typically installed in a sump basin, which is a hole dug in the floor of the basement. The pump is connected to a discharge pipe that carries the water away from the basement. Sump pumps are used to prevent flooding in basements, which can be caused by heavy rains, melting snow, or a broken water pipe. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to install a sump pump in a flooded basement.

Materials Required

Before beginning the installation process, it is important to gather all of the necessary materials. These materials include:

Sump pump
Sump basin
Discharge pipe
PVC cement
Electrical wire
Electrical tape
Float switch
Check valve
Battery backup (optional)

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

Once all of the materials have been gathered, the installation process can begin. The following steps will provide a detailed guide on how to install a sump pump in a flooded basement:

1. Choose a Location for the Sump Basin

The first step is to choose a location for the sump basin. The basin should be located in the lowest point of the basement, and it should be at least 24 inches deep. The basin should also be large enough to accommodate the sump pump and the float switch.

2. Dig the Sump Basin

Once the location for the sump basin has been chosen, the next step is to dig the basin. The basin should be dug to the desired depth and width. It is important to make sure that the basin is level, and that the bottom of the basin is smooth.

3. Install the Sump Basin

Once the sump basin has been dug, the next step is to install the basin. The basin should be placed in the hole and leveled. The basin should then be secured in place with concrete or gravel.

4. Connect the Discharge Pipe

The next step is to connect the discharge pipe to the sump pump. The discharge pipe should be made of PVC pipe, and it should be at least 1.5 inches in diameter. The discharge pipe should be connected to the sump pump using PVC cement.

5. Install the Float Switch

The next step is to install the float switch. The float switch is a device that turns the sump pump on and off. The float switch should be installed on the discharge pipe, and it should be set to the desired water level.

6. Install the Check Valve

The next step is to install the check valve. The check valve is a device that prevents water from flowing back into the sump basin. The check valve should be installed on the discharge pipe, and it should be oriented in the correct direction.

7. Wire the Sump Pump

The next step is to wire the sump pump. The sump pump should be wired to a dedicated circuit, and it should be protected by a circuit breaker. The electrical wire should be connected to the sump pump using electrical tape.

8. Test the Sump Pump

Once the sump pump has been wired, the next step is to test the pump. The pump should be turned on and off several times to make sure that it is working properly.

9. Install the Battery Backup (Optional)

If desired, a battery backup can be installed to the sump pump. The battery backup will provide power to the sump pump in the event of a power outage. The battery backup should be connected to the sump pump according to the manufacturer's instructions.