Drains and sewer
Sump pump repair and installation
A sump pump removes groundwater from a basement or crawl space pit before it floods. Repairs usually involve a stuck float switch, failed motor or check valve; a battery backup keeps it running when storms cut the power.
- Licensed plumbers in all 50 states
- Upfront pricing from the plumber before work
- Free referral, no obligation
Sump pumps work hardest during heavy rain and spring snowmelt, which is exactly when they fail or lose power. The most common problems are a float switch stuck against the pit wall, a burned-out motor, a clogged intake, or a discharge line that's frozen or blocked. Pumps typically last about 7 to 10 years.
For finished basements, a battery backup pump or a water-powered backup (where allowed) is the most important upgrade. A high-water alarm, a proper check valve and a discharge line that carries water well away from the foundation round out a reliable system.
Sump Pump Repair and Installation at a glance
- Service
- Sump Pump Repair and Installation
- Category
- Drains and sewer
- Availability
- Scheduled and same-day visits, depending on local availability
- Service area
- All 50 states and Washington, DC
- Also called
- sump pump replacement, basement pump, battery backup sump pump
- Typical life
- About 7 to 10 years
- Cost
- Quoted on site by the pro before work starts; see cost factors below
Signs you need sump pump repair and installation
- The pump runs constantly or cycles on and off
- The pump hums but doesn't move water
- Water in the basement after rain
- The pump is over 7 years old
- No backup power for storms
What the pro does, step by step
- 1
Test
The plumber fills the pit to test the float, motor, check valve and discharge.
- 2
Repair or replace
Switches and check valves are replaced, or a new pump is installed sized to the pit and inflow.
- 3
Add backup
Battery or water-powered backup pumps and alarms are added where appropriate.
- 4
Route discharge
Discharge is directed away from the foundation and protected from freezing.
What affects the cost of sump pump repair and installation
Prices vary by market and job. The pro gives you a price before starting; these factors drive it.
- Pedestal versus submersible pump
- Horsepower and pit size
- Backup system type
- New pit or drain tile installation
- Discharge line changes
What you can safely do, and when to stop
Safe to do yourself
- Pour a bucket of water into the pit to test the pump
- Clear debris from the pit and intake
- Make sure the pump is plugged into a working GFCI outlet
- Check that the discharge outlet outside is clear
Stop and call a pro
- Water is already on the floor
- The pump trips the breaker
- Installing a new pit or drain tile
- Sewage ejector pumps (these handle waste)
Sump Pump Repair and Installation FAQ
How long do sump pumps last?
Typically about 7 to 10 years, less if the pump runs often. Replacing an aging pump before storm season is cheaper than a flooded basement.
Do I need a battery backup sump pump?
If your basement is finished or storms often cut your power, yes. Power outages and pump failures during storms are the leading causes of sump-related flooding.
Why does my sump pump run constantly?
A high water table, a stuck float, a failed check valve letting water flow back, or an undersized pump can all cause constant running.
Where should a sump pump discharge?
Well away from the foundation, often 10 feet or more, and never into the sanitary sewer where that's prohibited. Local rules vary.
Sump Pump Repair and Installation near you
Available in all 50 states. Find local conditions for your area:
Or browse by state: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii and all states.
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Learn moreGet sump pump repair and installation help now
Call (888) 555-0142 to reach an available local pro, or request service online.