How To Remove and Fit a New Sump Pump

TOOLS NEEDED TO FIT YOUR SUMP PUMP

  • Pipe wrenches
  • Tape rule
  • Hammer
  • Gloves
  • Screwdrivers
  • Spirit level
  • Pipe saw
  • Drill
  • File

Other Materials that might be needed

  • Piping
  • Check Valves
  • Connectors

REMOVAL OF THE OLD SUMP PUMP

If you need to firstly remove the old sump pump, then there are several steps you will need to take to safely remove the old sump pump prior to your installation of fthe new pump. The FIRST thing you need to do is to safely isolate the electricity supply. Always physically unplug the sump pump if possible. Ensure all supplies are locked off and stay off during the removal and installation. Click here power tool guides to know the some other power tools which requires to removal of old sump pumps.

how to fit a sump pump

Sump Pump removal

To remove the sump pump you will need to disconnect the piping and flexible connectors that are attached to your old sump pump. This piping and check valve may be reused if suitable for the new sump pump. *TIP* Leave the check valve connected to the pipe above the valve as this will still be retaining the water that is within the pumping line. Now you have the pumping line removed you can now remove and coverings over the sump and thread the cable through any holes to free the pump. Reach into the sump and lift the pump by the body of the pump, or lifting handle. Remove the pump from the pit. Next you will need to remove the bottom portion of the pipe. This will still be attached to the sump pump. Unscrew this in a counter clockwise direction to it is disconnected.

Your old sump pump should now be removed. And the sump should be clear for the installation of your new sump pump.

INSTALLATION OF YOUR NEW SUMP PUMP.

Now we have the sump clear and ready for your new sump pump, you will need to decide of you are able to re-use the old piping or if need to fit new piping to your pump.

In this example we are going to fit new piping to our sump pump. With your tape rule you will need to measure from the very bottom of your sump up to the bottom of the check valve. Allow 2-3 inches more onto your measurement for good measure. Take your measurement and cut your new length of pipe to this length. Glue or thread your new threaded fittings onto your pipe prior to attaching this to the sump pump and allow to set/cure.

Weep hole

You will also need to drill a weep hole into the pipe. This is to prevent the pump from becoming air bound when using a check valve in your system. Look to drill the hole just above the threaded connector at the sump pump end.

OK – Pipe is ready

Now your pipe is prepared and drilled you need to attach it to your sump pump. Take your time and ensure you correctly align the threaded portion into the pump and screw this in a clockwise direction. We DO NOT want to cross thread this connection.

Secure the pump by standing on it or have somebody holding the pump as you ensure you fully tighten the pipe into the thread using a set or wrenches to grip the pipe. Once you are satisfied you have correctly tightened the pipe you need to insert the new sump pump into the pit by the carrying handle on the pump. *IMPORTANT* Do not use the cord to lower the pump.

The pipe is Too Long

Now we have inserted the sump pump into the pit we have to connect the pump to the rest of the pumping line and check valve. Align the pipe to the underside of the check valve and mark it for cutting just below the bottom of the check valve. Now properly mark the pipe and take to vice/ workbench and cut the top off the pipe. Clear all burrs from the cut end of the pipe using a file. Take your sump pump and piping and insert into the sump pump. Replace and sump covering and thread any cord through any required holes. Refit the covering to final position.

Float Check

Ensure the float switch is free and able to operate fully within your pit. This is essential to the operation of the sump pump and therefore the pump needs to be positioned in such a way that the float switch has full operating range.

Final Connection

Now we are ready to re connect the new sump pump to the check valve, we will slide the rubber coupling over the pipe in preparation of making the final connections. Ensure the coupling is fully mated to both the check valve and the piping, and then tighten using your screwdriver.

Reapply the mains power

Once you are ready you will need to plug your sump pump back into the electricity supply. Switch the mains onto your sump pump.

Testing

Once you are ready you should fully test the pumping line for leaks and pay close attention to the joints at the check valve. Tighten if required. If you are satisfied that you have no leaks then look to ensure your float switch will operate properly. To do this it may need a hose to fill the sump if empty. Fill the sump and let the new sump pump drain the pit of water several times as this will ensure the sump pump will operate when the sump fills and switch off when it has pumped down to a low level.

VIDEO HELP WITH THE FITTING OF YOUR SUBMERSIBLE PUMP

Below is a video outlining the removal and installation of a sump pump. This video is broken down into very simple steps and will guide you through the removal and installation of your sump pump. We found it to be a great guide and therefore have added it here for your assistance if you need further help with your sump pump installation.

We also have tips on the maintenance procedures for your submersible pumps. This will prolong the life of your sump pump, so it will be there for you in years to come.


Bill

Bill

Bill is a DIY plumber, handyman, and homeowner with more than a decade of experience. He has replaced and repaired sump pumps, backup pumps, float switches, check valves, and many other things around his family home. An engineer and tinkerer at heart, he is always looking to see how things work and taking on new home projects that help him grow his skillsets. He is a husband and father of two boys, has a bachelors degree in Computer Engineer and minor in Mathematics and likes to make homebrew beer in his free time.

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