Sump pump pits are an essential part of protecting any basement and home foundation from costly water damage. A well-installed sump pump pit effectively channels water away from your home’s foundation, protecting your property by ensuring long-term structural integrity.
Getting your system in place can help you enjoy peace of mind and know that your home is safeguarded against the potential devastation of water intrusion. This guide will walk you through the process of sump pump pit installation step-by-step and share essential tips.
Tools and Materials Needed
Gather the following tools and materials before you begin the installation:
- Sump pump pit basin: This container houses your sump pump. Choose a basin made of durable material like concrete or polyethylene. Consider the size of your basement and the potential volume of water you need to manage when selecting a basin. A larger basin will hold more water, but it will also require a larger hole and more backfill material.
- Gravel: This is used for the base of the pit and to surround the basin. Gravel helps with drainage and prevents soil erosion around the pit. Choose a coarse gravel that is at least 1/2 inch in diameter.
- PVC pipes and fittings: These are for the discharge pipe, which carries water away from your home’s foundation. Use pipes and fittings that are rated for underground use and are the appropriate size for your sump pump.
- Shovel and pickaxe: These are essential for digging the pit. A pickaxe is especially useful for breaking up hard soil or clay.
- Level: A level is crucial for ensuring the basin is properly positioned. The basin must be level to prevent the pump from tipping or running inefficiently.
- Pipe sealant: This is used to create watertight connections between the pipes and fittings. Use a sealant that is specifically designed for PVC pipes.
- Measuring tape: You’ll need a measuring tape to determine the size of the pit and the length of the discharge pipe.
- Safety gear: Protect yourself with gloves and safety glasses during the installation process.
Choosing the Right Sump Pump Pit Basin
Choosing the right material for your sump pump pit basin is a crucial decision. Let’s look at the three most readily available options and weigh their pros and cons:
Material:
- Plastic: Lightweight, affordable, and easy to install. However, they may be less durable than other materials.
- Concrete: More durable and resistant to damage, but heavier and more challenging to install. Concrete basins also tend to be more expensive.
- Polyethylene: Strikes a balance between durability and affordability. Polyethylene basins are lightweight and relatively easy to install.
Size:
- Capacity: Basin capacity is measured in gallons and determines how much water the pit can hold before the pump activates. Larger capacities are ideal for homes prone to heavy rainfall or high water tables. Smaller capacities may be sufficient for areas with less frequent or less severe water intrusion.
- Shape: Sump pump basins typically come in two shapes: cylindrical and rectangular. Cylindrical basins are more common and easier to install, while rectangular basins may offer more capacity in a smaller footprint.
Features:
- Lid: A lid is essential to prevent debris from entering the pit and clogging the pump. Look for a basin with a tight-fitting, secure lid that is easy to remove for maintenance. Some lids also have vents to allow air to escape during pumping.
- Additional features: Some basins come with additional features like pre-drilled holes for pipes or built-in alarms that alert you when the water level gets too high.
Pre-Installation Steps
Proper preparation is key to a successful sump pump pit installation. Follow these pre-installation steps and insure your sump pump pit works like a charm:
- Determine the pit location: Choose the lowest point in your basement, as water naturally flows downhill. If possible, locate the pit near a drain or the foundation’s perimeter for easier discharge pipe installation. Keep your electrical outlets in mind, as you’ll need to plug in the sump pump.
- Measure the area: Carefully measure the dimensions of the pit basin. This will determine the size of the hole you need to dig. Add a few inches to each dimension to allow for gravel backfill around the basin.
- Permits: It’s possible that a permit might be required for your sump pump pit installation, so double check with your local municipality. Obtaining the necessary permits ensures your installation complies with local building codes and regulations.
- Electrical considerations: Ensure there is a grounded electrical outlet near the chosen pit location for the sump pump to plug into. If necessary, consult an electrician to install a dedicated outlet with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection for safety.
- Drainage options: Figuring out where you will discharge the water from the sump pump is critical. Common options include a dry well, a storm drain, or a designated drainage area away from your home’s foundation. Check local regulations to ensure your chosen drainage method complies with local codes.
- Additional tools: Depending on the specific conditions of your basement and installation, you may need additional tools such as a concrete saw, a wheelbarrow for removing dirt, or a dehumidifier to control moisture levels during installation.
Installation Process
Now that you’ve completed the pre-installation steps, let’s dive into the detailed installation process:
- Dig the pit: Use a shovel and pickaxe to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the sump pump basin. The extra space is needed for the gravel backfill, typically around 6-12 inches on all sides. Mark the dimensions of the basin on the ground to guide your digging. Start by outlining the perimeter with a shovel, then begin digging within the marked area. If you encounter rocks or hard soil, a pickaxe can be helpful.
- Leveling and securing: Once the hole is dug to the appropriate depth, add a layer of gravel to the bottom. This layer should be about 4-6 inches deep and level. Use a level to ensure the gravel is evenly distributed and creates a stable base for the basin. The gravel base helps with drainage and prevents the basin from shifting over time.
- Installing the basin: Carefully lower the sump pump basin into the hole. Double-check that it is perfectly level using your level tool. Adjust the gravel base if necessary to achieve a level position. Once the basin is level and centered, start backfilling around it with more gravel. Fill the gaps between the basin and the walls of the hole completely with gravel.
- Connecting the discharge pipe: Attach the discharge pipe to the pump outlet using PVC cement. Apply a generous amount of cement to both the pipe and the fitting, then twist and hold them together until the cement sets. The discharge pipe should extend away from your home’s foundation, ideally sloping downwards at about 1/4 inch per foot to ensure proper water flow. Consider adding a check valve to the discharge pipe to prevent water from flowing back into the pit when the pump is off.
- Backfilling: Continue filling the remaining space around the basin with gravel. Fill it to within a few inches of the top of the hole. Tamp the gravel down firmly to ensure a solid and stable base. This prevents the basin from shifting and helps with drainage.
- Sealing: Apply a generous amount of pipe sealant to all joints and connections to prevent leaks. Pay special attention to the connection between the discharge pipe and the pump outlet. Use a sealant that is specifically designed for PVC pipes to ensure a watertight seal.
Post-Installation Tips
Testing the Pump
Slowly pour a five-gallon bucket of water into the pit to test the pump’s activation. The pump should turn on automatically and pump the water out. This simple test can help you identify any issues before a flooding event occurs.
Regular Inspections
Check the pit at least once a month for debris, such as leaves, dirt, or small objects. Remove any debris to prevent clogs that could hinder the pump’s operation.
Cleaning
Periodically clean the sump pump basin and impeller. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance, as specific procedures may vary depending on the model.
Battery Backup
Consider installing a battery backup system for your sump pump. This will ensure the pump continues to function even during power outages, providing uninterrupted protection against flooding.
Alarm System
A sump pump alarm can alert you if the water level in the pit gets too high, signaling a potential problem with the pump or excessive water intrusion.
Professional Maintenance
While regular DIY maintenance is essential, it’s recommended to have a professional inspect and service your sump pump annually. This can help identify potential issues and ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
Installing a sump pump pit is a proactive measure to protect your home from the damaging effects of basement flooding. The steps in this guide will help ensure a successful installation and bring the peace of mind that comes with a dry basement.
Do you have any experiences or additional tips for installing or maintaining a sump pump pit? Share your insights in the comments below! Your knowledge can help fellow homeowners protect their homes from water damage.
