Sump Pump Installation & Replacement

Get a free quote

We reply within 60 minutes, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days a week.

Sump pumps wear out, and they tend to fail when you need them most: during heavy storms, which is also when the power is most likely to go out.

A contractor can replace an aging pump, install a new pit where you don't have one, and add a battery backup so the system keeps running in an outage.

If your pump runs constantly, makes grinding noises, or is more than several years old, it's worth having it checked before the next storm.

Replace, upgrade or add a backup?

Replace a pump that's old, noisy, runs constantly or fails a bucket test.
Upgrade capacity if your pump can't keep up during storms.
Add a battery backup if a power outage would leave your basement unprotected.
Add a high-water alarm so you know before water reaches the floor.

Typical costs

HomeAdvisor puts sump pump replacement at $275 to $1,000 and a new installation at $642 to $2,085. HomeServe estimates a battery backup at $600 to $1,200 installed. See our guide to sump pump warning signs for sources.

Questions to ask before replacing a sump pump

Is the pit the right size, or is the pump short cycling because the pit is too small?
Is the check valve working, so water doesn't flow back into the pit?
Where does the discharge line end, and is it far enough from the foundation?
Is the pump on its own circuit, and does it need a GFCI outlet?

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my sump pump is failing?

Common signs are constant running, cycling on and off, unusual noises, visible rust, or water that doesn't drain from the pit. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to test that it starts and shuts off.

Do I need a battery backup sump pump?

If your basement is finished or stores anything valuable, a backup is strongly recommended because storms often knock out power exactly when the pump is needed.

Where should a sump pump discharge?

Away from the foundation, to a spot where the water drains away from the house instead of soaking back toward it. Local rules may limit discharging into sanitary sewers, so ask your contractor what applies.