Sump pump replacement costs are inevitable at some point. On average, expect to pay $575 once the pump needs timely replacing. Pedestal sump pumps range from $70 to $195, while submersible units will cost you $115 to $460.
Homeowners living in flood-prone or high moisture areas can benefit from a sump pump. It is crucial in always keeping your home interior dry, as well as protecting your property from flooding and interior or basement damage.
If you settle with a faulty sump pump, expect to deal with excess moisture levels at home. Unfortunately, this may result in mold or mildew.
Sump Pump Replacement Cost Overview
Factors Affecting Sump Pump Cost
Keep in mind that several factors may affect the total sump pump cost. It includes the flooring type, pump accessibility, sump pump type, and labor costs.
Let's discuss these factors in detail below so you can prepare your budget accordingly.
Labor Cost
On average, sump pump installation may cost you $52 to $230 per hour on contractor charges. Replacing an old pump will only take an hour or two at most.
Sump Pump Types
There are two primary types of sump pumps, either pedestal or submersible. Accordingly, these pumps can be hydro-powered, battery-powered, or in some cases– both.
Both pedestal and submersible sump pumps work similarly, where a float inside the pump is lifted as the water level rises. After the water reaches a certain level, the activated pump will draw it in and pump it outside the drain.
Pumps powered by a battery (and the combination type) will cost you as much as two times the price of standard water-powered sump pumps.
Refer to the table below to take a closer look at the difference of each sump pump type:
Sump Pump Type | Average Costs | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
Pedestal Sump Pump | $70 - $195 | Affordable, easily accessible, long lifespan | Loud operating noise, lesser power |
Submersible Sump Pump | $115 - $460 | Space-saver, quiet, powerful | Challenging to repair, shorter lifespan |
Water-powered Sump Pump | $115 - $448 | Runs for long hours, powered by water | Complex installation, less powerful than battery-powered units |
Battery-powered Sump Pump | $173 - $575 | Easy to install, powerful | Limited run time, requires battery replacement after 3 to 5 years |
Pedestal Sump Pump
A pedestal sump pump ranges from $70 to $195, with an average life span of 20 to 25 years.
Usually, these pumps run on a ⅓ to ½ horsepower motor, removing up to 35 gallons of water in a minute. Its motor is situated atop a pedestal. The hose then goes down in the basin, drawing the water outside the hole and directs through the drain.
This type of sump pump is easily accessible and repaired, considering it is located outside the basin. However, one drawback is its loud operation noises.
Submersible Sump Pump
A submersible sump pump costs $115 to $460, which lasts for 5 to 15 years. High-end models may last for up to 10 to 30 years, though.
This pump is entirely submerged under the water in the basin. It can ¾ horsepower motor, capable of draining 60 gallons of water in one minute. Water muffles the motor whirring noise when it's working, making it quieter than a standard pedestal pump.
However, it can be quite challenging to access as the pump must be removed from the water.
Water-Powered Sump Pump
Sump pumps that are powered by water will cost you somewhere between $115 and $448. It will only require water to operate.
The pipe's flowing water (usually from the local water system) produces a suction– draining any water outside the basement. Some localities are already banning water-powered sump pumps as they tend to waste a considerable amount of water.
Regardless, this pump type will need an annual inspection by a licensed specialist. It may add to your yearly maintenance costs.
Battery-Powered Sump Pump
Battery-powered sump pumps are considerably more efficient, priced at $173 to $575. These units run on a deep cycle, marine-type battery.
Thanks to their high efficiency, sump pumps powered by batteries can remove more water than hydro-power units. You may also install an app for easy monitoring at any time of the day.
Most sump pumps are made of plastic or metal. Plastic pumps are corrosion-resistant, although they cannot handle too much pressure. Meanwhile, sump pumps made of metal are at an increased risk of corrosion– but are far more durable than plastic material.
Metal pumps will cost you more, typically twice as much as what you'd pay for plastic ones.
Pump Size
Choosing the right size of sump pump for your home needs will depend on the required amount of water that needs to be removed instead of the total square footage of your basement.
If your basement is unfortunately flood-proof, you will benefit from a stronger pimp. The more water that needs removing, the more horsepower is required.
Below are the three most common sump pump sizes for your reference:
Type of Floor
A basement with a dirt floor will make it easier for sump pump pit digging than concrete floors. It will cost you somewhere between $345 and $575, starting at $6 to $11 per linear foot.
Meanwhile, installing a sump pump on a concrete floor will cost you $2,875 to $5,750 on average. The expenses will also depend on the required depth for the drainage pipes. Typically, you will need jackhammers and other equipment for the installation.
Pump Location and Accessibility
If you install a pump in difficult-to-reach areas, such as a crawl space, it may cost you a few hundred dollars more than the average estimated costs.
Similarly, if the area’s plumbing is complex– expect to pay higher costs.
Geographic Location
Depending on your locality, the average costs to replace a sump pump will vary. For instance, cities and urban areas will naturally have higher labor costs than rural regions. It also applies to the cost of materials for the project.
If you want to find an excellent price fit to your budget, aim to get at least three quotes from reputable local professionals.
Permits
Replacing your old sump pump may require complex electrical and plumbing work. That said, some cities will require you to secure a local permit for this kind of project.
It will cost you somewhere between $58 and $230. Don’t forget to check local regulations to ensure your permit before carrying on with the project.
Drainage System
If you need to update your current drainage system or dig a new one, this may cost you $4,600 to $13,800.
A typical drainage system will require you to remove concrete and a dirt-covered area measuring 24 inches inside the basement.
Before replacing the concrete, you must add a basin, gravel, and drain tiles first. Wider drainpipes are necessary if you have a powerful pump for removing large water amounts.
Additional Costs and Considerations
In planning the proper budget for sump pump replacement costs, it's best to consider the additional price factors besides the upfront costs.
Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Basin Quality
Replacing your sump pump gives you the perfect opportunity to upgrade the quality of your basin. Ideally, it must be composed of heavy-duty plastic– strong enough not to flex or collapse.
Standard 17-inch basin starts at $39, with taller basins costing up to $69 on average. The basin is installed under the floor, and the sump pump is situated inside it for your reference. Once the pump is activated, pushing water out of the pipes, the basin is filled with water.
Flood Insurance
Replacing your old sump pump with a new one won't eliminate the risk of flooding. If your property is located in a flood-prone area, consider signing up for a flood insurance policy. It will cost you $805 annually.
Don't worry. Most insurance policies on flooding covers building damage as well as affected contents.
Maintenance
After a sump pump replacement, it is crucial to follow routine maintenance to extend its lifespan. It may cost you $287 in a year, including frequent check-ups.
Your new pump needs to be inspected from time to time to ensure no debris ends up clogging it. Buying an airtight cover will help you prevent this particular problem. If you notice the pump isn't turning on, contact a local professional as soon as possible. Other telling signs to keep in mind are strange thumping, lack of water in the basin, and rattling or gurgling noises.
During wet seasons, a sump pump must ideally cycle off. If your sump pump is working around the clock, it's best to consult a plumber to assess the pump's condition.
Repairs
Your newly replaced sump pump may need repairs at some point, which costs $586 on average. Contact a plumber or pump specialist to repair the valve, pipes, float switch, pump motor, or handles.
After some time, carefully weigh your options to figure out if replacing your old sump pump will help you save more than constantly paying for costly repairs.
Battery Backup
To ensure your sump pump will run around the clock, even during a power outage, consider buying a battery backup.
Installing a pump with a backup battery in the basement, crawl space, or yard may cost up to $1,403. Buying a reserve battery for high-end water-powered models may cost you more.
Reserve Pumps
Properties located in flood-prone areas may benefit from having several sump pumps in the basement.
In some cases, a single sump pump may be incapable of removing vast amounts of water. That said, consider having multiple reserves to protect your home from possible water damage.
Filters
A filter may prolong the time you need to replace your sump pumps, as they effectively filter out foreign debris and other sediments.
Additionally, a pump filter will protect it from clogging. It costs somewhere between $17 and $40.
What are the Advantages of a Sump Pump Replacement?
Settling with old, faulty pumps may only cost you more money on repairs in the long run. Replacing your sump pump with a new one, in contrast, will give you better protection against flooding and water damage.
That said, the cost of sump pump replacement is worth the benefits to your home. Here are some specific advantages you need to take into consideration:
How Should I Maintain My Sump Pump?
The best way to maintain your sump pump is by inviting a contractor to perform general maintenance to help prolong its life regularly. (Related: Six-Step Maintenance Guide To Keep Your Sump Pump Working For Years)
Licensed contractors will fill the sump pit with water to see if it empties correctly and check if the float is appropriately working. They will also check for sounds coming from the pump and change the batteries if necessary.