When your sump pump fails, you may notice strange noises, frequent cycling or water accumulating in your basement. In severe cases, sump pump failure can cause significant damage. Great Dane offers fast, dependable service, making it possible to prevent water damage and avoid mold growth. Learn more about sump pump replacement, including when it’s necessary and how much it costs.
When Is Sump Pump Replacement Necessary?
Sump pump replacement is necessary if the unit shows signs of failure. For example, if your sump pump doesn’t activate during heavy rainfall, you may need a new one. You should also replace your sump pump if it’s near the end of its expected lifespan. This is about 15 years for most residential models, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Understanding Sump Pump Replacement Cost
The cost to put in a sump pump depends on several factors. The type of pump you choose has the biggest impact. Although pedestal pumps are less expensive than submersible pumps, they’re generally noisier. Pedestal pumps are also less powerful than submersible ones. You also have the option of installing a sump pump with a battery backup, which is helpful if you live in an area with frequent power outages. Adding battery backup increases sump pump cost and installation complexity.
Electrical and Plumbing Updates
Sump pump replacement cost depends heavily on whether you need any plumbing or electrical updates. In some cases, we have to add drainage piping or install a dedicated electrical outlet before we can install a new sump pump. If you choose a system with battery backup, we also need additional materials to complete the job, increasing the total cost of installing a sump pump in your home.
Pump Capacity
When planning for sump pump replacement, you need to think about capacity and quality. Capacity measures how quickly a sump pump removes water from a basement. It’s usually expressed in gallons per minute or gallons per hour. Installing a low-capacity unit costs less up front, but it can cost you later. Low-capacity pumps may not be able to keep up with the amount of water accumulating during a severe storm.
High-quality sump pumps typically have more horsepower than lower-quality pumps. Horsepower describes the output of a motor. High-horsepower models cost more, but they may also perform more reliably.
Installation Complexity
Replacing a sump pump usually involves removing the old unit and adding a new one to the existing basin. If your installation requires additional steps, it’s likely to cost more. For example, we may have to replace the discharge line first, increasing the total cost of labor and materials.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Replacing your sump pump can increase energy efficiency and prevent water damage to your home. Our team of experts is ready to assess your needs and recommend a cost-effective solution. Call us or request service online.
