Proper Sump Pump Installation to Prevent Basement Flooding
With mostly flat terrain at or near sea level and annual average rainfall of around 60 inches, Florida is considered one of the, if not the, most flood-prone state in the United States. This is why most homeowners, especially those with a basement invest in proper drainage systems as well as sump pumps. If your basement is regularly flooding and you do not have a sump pump installed, then continue reading to learn how to install one. If you prefer to leave this work to a qualified plumber, then call Sunshine Plumbers today. We offer sump pump installations as well as sump pump repair and maintenance. Our friendly representatives are on standby to take your call.
Why Install a Sump Pump?
If you are not familiar with a sump pump, it is a relatively simple device that collects floodwater and pumps it away from your property. This is a reactive solution that essentially treats the symptoms rather than the cause, but stopping moisture and water is an expensive feat – especially here in Florida. Still, a sump pump installation is a great stopgap and can prevent extensive water damage.
What You Will Need
Before we get to the tools, we want to note that you will need a fair amount of time to get this job done. For experienced DIYers, a sump pump installation may take only one day. It may take additional time for the concrete to fully cure. It is also important to check the forecast beforehand. You want a string of clear days ahead so that rainfall does not ruin your work. With that said, here are supplies and tools you will need:
- Sump pump
- Demolition hammer or jackhammer
- Power drill
- 10- to 15-gallon sump basin
- PVC piping and glue
- Sealant caulk
- Filtration material
- Gravel
- Stone paver
The Installation Guide
First, mark the area where water is locating. This is usually the lowest point in the basement. Set your sump basin on that area and draw a circle about 4 inches outside the perimeter of the basin. Wear protective gear and use a demolition hammer or jackhammer to break into the floor along the outline. Dig the hole to the required depth and set the sump basin in the hole. The top of the basin should be level with the floor surface. Fill the bottom of the basin with about an inch of gravel and place the stone paver on top.
Place the sump pump and position it on top of the paver in a stable manner. Connect the drainage PVC pipe to the check valve on top of the pump and run the piping up the wall. Use a power drill to make a hole in the wall large enough for the pipe to exit. Use sealant caulk to seal the hole going outside. Fill the hole surrounding the sump basin with cement so that it is sealed in place. Let the concrete cure before plugging in the sump pump and turning it on.
Call the Professionals
Installing the sump pump is fairly simple but it involves a lot of risky work, such as drilling and making holes in concrete. If you prefer to leave this work to the professionals, then call Sunshine Plumbers. Our friendly representatives are on standby to take your call. We also offer sump pump repair and replacements.
