A sump pump is installed in the lowest level of your home—typically the basement or crawl space—in a pit that collects excess water. When rising water levels trigger the pump to turn on, it flushes water away from your home to prevent flooding. 

A top-rated sump pump can help preserve the structural integrity of your home’s foundation and protect against water damage. The national average cost of installing a sump pump is around $1,400, though the price may range from $500–$4,000* depending on the specifics of your home.

*All cost figures in this article were sourced from Fixr and HomeAdvisor.

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Signs You Need a New Sump Pump

If your basement is flooding despite the presence of a sump pump, you need a new or more powerful one. Here are some other signs that it may be time to replace your sump pump.

• High energy bills due to an inefficient pump
• Severe corrosion on the outside of the pump
• Unusual gurgling, thumping, or rattling noises
• Water in the motor casing

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What Factors Affect Sump Pump Installation Cost?

Here are the most relevant factors that affect the cost of a sump pump.

• Type of pump: More powerful submersible pumps cost more than pedestal pumps.
• Power source: Primary electric pumps, backup water-powered pumps, and combination pumps come at different price points.
• Location: Crawl spaces and outdoor sump pumps are typically less expensive to install than those in basements and garages.

Cost by Type of Pump

There are two main types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible. Pedestal sump pumps have a motor located atop a column. The pedestal sits in the sump pit, while the pump motor is elevated above the water level and, typically, above the ground. Pedestal sump pumps are less expensive and easier to repair because their working parts are more accessible. They’re also noisier and less powerful, so they’re recommended for areas with a low risk of flooding.

Submersible sump pumps sit entirely submerged in the bottom of the sump basin. They’re made of plastic, cast iron, or stainless steel. They have more powerful motors and operate more quietly. However, they’re more expensive and harder to access if they break. They’re also less durable because they sit in the water. They’re recommended for areas with a higher risk of flooding thanks to their greater horsepower and resistance to clogging.

Cost by Power Source

Sump pumps run on electricity. If your home doesn’t have a backup system, such as a generator, it may be at risk of flooding during a power outage. A primary sump pump runs on your home’s main electrical system. Some can be powered by a battery backup if the power goes out. You can purchase the battery separately or buy a sump pump with a built-in battery.

Water-powered pumps connect to the municipal sewer system and use negative pressure to pull water from your pump. They’re typically used as backup sump pumps. While they’re more expensive than battery-powered pumps, they last longer. Combination pumps have both electrical and water-powered pumps, but they’re large and expensive.

Cost by Pump Location

Most sump pumps are installed in basement floors or crawl spaces because they need to be located in the lowest area of the home. However, they may be installed in garages or outdoors, depending on the layout of your home and yard. It generally costs less to install a sump pump in an unfinished space based on the type of floor. The harder the space is to access, the more installation will cost. Here are some average prices by sump pump location.

Sump Pump Labor Cost

Labor costs for installing a sump pump and drainage pipes range from $300–$4,000, depending on whether your home already has a sump basin. If it does, you can hire a plumber at $75–$150 per hour to hook up your new sump pump system. Regular home improvement contractors charge less, but you may need to get a permit if you need to change your home’s wiring to power the pump.

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What Are Additional Sump Pump Installation Costs You Should Consider?

The cost of installation also depends on your current drainage system, the type of floor you’re digging into, and the power of the pump.

Drainage System

If your home already has a well-functioning, updated drainage system, sump pump installation will be relatively inexpensive. However, if you’re dealing with basement flooding for the first time or your current system is overwhelmed, a new sump pump is only one part of the solution. For example, installing discharge pipes above the ground costs $150–$400.

If you want the pipes buried, it could cost anywhere from $250–$2,000. Installing a new drainage system to ensure water gets to the pump is more expensive. French drains, a common drainage system that connects to the pit where water is collected, can cost $2,800–$6,500.

Floor Type

Because sump pumps sit in a pit or basin, one must be dug if it doesn’t already exist. Unfinished floors come with lower installation costs. It is easiest to dig and line a pit in a dirt floor, such as in a crawl space or outdoor area, and may only cost a few hundred dollars. Drilling through a concrete foundation will likely cost $2,500–$5,000.

Replacement vs. New Installation

New sump pump installation is substantially more expensive than replacement because installation requires more preparation. The average cost to install a new submersible sump pump and pit with an above-ground drainage system is $1,400. If you have an existing pit and require minimal labor, sump pump installation could cost $500 on the low end. A high-end system could cost up to $4,000 to install.

Sump pump replacement costs around $350–$1,000, including materials and labor. If the new sump pump is larger than the old one, the basin may need to be enlarged, which increases the price. For comparison, sump pump repairs such as fixing a check valve or float switch tend to cost between $200–$500.

Sump Basin

A sump basin is a pit in which water collects and triggers the sump pump to turn on. The sump pump motor sits above or is submerged in the basin, depending on the type of pump. The basin is drilled or dug into the floor, lined with waterproofing material, and connected to the current drainage system. It typically costs $500–$1,200 for the labor alone, not including the cost of drilling through concrete.

Sump Pump Horsepower

The power of the sump pump motor you need is determined by the volume of water, how far it needs to be pumped, and the diameter of the drainage pipes. Residential sump pumps start at about 1/4 horsepower (HP) on the low end and top out at around 3 HP. The more powerful the pump, the more expensive it is. High-end pumps are typically submersible. Most homes need between 1/3 and 3/4 HP.

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Should You DIY vs. Professional Sump Pump Installation?

Homeowners with DIY experience may consider installing a sump pump themselves, but some installations will be easier and safer than others.

Professional Sump Pump Installation

If you hire a professional, you’ll pay labor costs on top of the price of the pump. However, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the pump is correctly hooked up to your home’s plumbing and electrical systems. Professional installation is typically the better choice for submersible sump pump installation or installations that involve cutting through a concrete slab. Pros have the tools to get the job done quickly and safely.

DIY Sump Pump Installation

DIY sump pump installation is a messy job that involves water and electricity. Take safety precautions before you begin. Get the needed supplies, such as a demolition hammer, basin liner, and gravel. Installation or replacement of a pedestal sump pump or installations that require digging through a dirt floor will be the easiest to complete yourself.

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What Are the Benefits of Installing a Sump Pump?

Having a working sump pump in your home is vital if you live in an area at risk of flooding. Here are some key benefits of installing a sump pump.

• Increases home value
• Keeps out insects and rodents
• Prevents flooding and water damage
• Prevents mold and mildew growth on basement walls
• Protects the foundation and reduces the likelihood of cracks
• Reduces humidity in basements and crawl spaces

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How Can You Reduce Sump Pump Installation Costs?

Here’s how to save on the cost of installing a sump pump.

• Balance short- and long-term costs. An underpowered, plastic pump may cost less up-front, but it will burn out sooner if overworked.
• Skip high-tech upgrades such as Bluetooth monitoring systems.
• If you lack confidence in your DIY skills, hire a professional. 
• Once your sump pump is installed, clean it regularly and change the filter as recommended.
• Have your sump pump inspected by a professional once a year to catch problems.

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How To Hire a Plumbing Professional

If you’re hiring a contractor to install a sump pump, keep the following considerations in mind.

• While sump pumps don’t have to be installed by licensed plumbers, you may want to hire a plumber for the installation of a larger drainage system.
• Ensure any contractor you hire is bonded and insured.
• Check the company’s Better Business Bureau page and customer reviews on Trustpilot and Yelp.
• Ask about workmanship warranties.

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Our Conclusion

If your basement, crawl space, or garage is prone to flooding, a sump pump can be a lifesaver. The national average cost to install a sump pump is around $1,400 but can range from $500 to $4,000, depending on various factors.

A pedestal sump pump works well for occasional use. For severe flooding risk, a submersible pump provides better power. While replacing or installing a sump pump can be a DIY job, think critically about your skills and the time you can spend on it, and hire a professional if you’re not confident. You don’t want to risk water damage to your home.

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FAQ About Sump Pump Installation

Is it worth it to replace my sump pump?

It’s often worth it to replace your sump pump. Replacing a sump pump is cheaper than repairing water damage. It’s also less expensive than installing a new pump and basin. If you’re worried about flooding, it’s a good idea to replace a broken sump pump.

How long do sump pumps last?

Pedestal sump pumps last up to 30 years when properly maintained. Submersible pumps must be replaced every five to 15 years.

Does homeowners insurance cover sump pump replacement?

No, homeowners insurance does not typically cover sump pump replacement. The exception is if the pump was damaged in an incident covered by homeowners insurance.

How do I know when to replace my sump pump?

Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your sump pump:

• Cycling on and off too frequently
• Excessive noise or vibration
• Running constantly
• Unusual sounds

What’s the difference between a septic pump and a sump pump?

A sump pump is designed to push water away from a home’s foundation. A septic pump or sewage ejector pump flushes solid and liquid waste to a home’s main sewer line or septic tank. Keeping sump pumps in a good state of repair can avoid damage to your sewer line, which can save you the expense of replacing a sewer line.

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