The typical cost to install a sump pump is $638 to $1,979, with an average cost of around $1,275
If your home is at risk for flooding, a sump pump is essential, as it protects your home from expensive water damage—and provides you with much-needed peace of mind. These systems have the critical job of collecting rainwater that could flood or damage your home and diverting it to a safe area, like a basin or storm drain. Installing a new sump pump typically costs $638 to $1,979, with an average cost of around $1,275, depending on factors like type, location, and whether or not you hire a pro.
We break down the costs so you can budget accordingly and get the ball rolling on your sump pump installation.
How Much Does It Cost to Install and Run a Sump Pump?
The cost to install and run a sump pump varies depending on the type of sump pump you have. For example, pedestal sump pumps cost around $60 to $170, while submersible pumps can cost anywhere from $100 to $400. Additionally, submersible sump pumps take longer to install. Sump pump installation pros typically charge $45 to $200 per hour, so you'll also want to factor in labor costs when budgeting for a sump pump installation.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Sump Pump by Location in Your Home?
If needed, a pro should install a sump pump at the lowest point in your house to collect all of your home's water flow—doing so pulls the water away from your foundation and prevents flooding. The cost of installing a sump pump varies by location in your home.
Crawl Space Sump Pump Installation Cost
Many crawl spaces are only about 1 to 3 feet tall. This space constraint makes installation difficult because installers often have to use hand tools rather than full-sized digging equipment to access the space. They also can't move around as freely, which can further extend installation times. It costs around $3,900 to install a sump pump in a crawl space.
Basement Sump Pump Installation Cost
It's typically easier to install a sump pump in the basement rather than a crawl space since installers can comfortably stand and use full-sized tools to do the job. It usually costs around $640 to $1,915 to install a basement sump pump, but costs can reach as high as $3,900 if plumbing issues crop up, or your pro encounters a difficult floor to dig through.
Outdoor Sump Pump Installation Cost
If your yard is prone to flooding, then you can install a sump pump outside. For this, you'll need a submersible pump that can work in hot and cold temperatures. The average cost to install a sump pump outside is $1,220.
How Much Do Sump Pumps Cost by Type?
The type of sump pump you have affects the overall cost to install it.
Submersible Sump Pump Costs
Submersible sump pumps usually feature a three-quarter horsepower motor that can remove up to 60 gallons of water per minute. They're more powerful than pedestal sump pumps, which makes them the preferred option for areas that flood often. They're also quieter than pedestal pumps, but they cost more to install and repair. Submersible pumps typically cost around $100 to $400 per unit.
Pedestal Sump Pump Costs
Pedestal sump pumps come with a one-third to one-half horsepower motor that can remove up to 35 gallons of water per minute. These pumps work well for areas that only experience mild flooding since they pack less power than submersible pumps. They're also more prone to clogging and louder than submersible pumps, but they're easier and less expensive to service. Pedestal pumps usually cost $60 to $170 per unit.
Helpful Sump Pump Feature Considerations
Depending on where you live, you might want a sump pump with additional features, like a battery backup or alarm, which prove particularly helpful in areas at high risk of flooding.
Sump Pumps With Battery Backups
If you live in an area prone to flooding or power outages, you might want to invest in a sump pump with a battery backup. A battery backup can help protect your home from flooding when your power goes out because the battery works independently of your home's electrical system. Battery backups can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on size, type, and capacity.
“They also make pumps that use incoming water pressure to turn the turbines and make them work,” says Joseph Wood, Expert Review Board member and Boston-based Master Plumber. “Just keep in mind that they’ll work at a reduced rate during a power outage.”
Sump Pumps With Alarms
Some sump pumps come with alarms that alert you when there's more water than your pump can handle—including Wi-Fi-enabled units that will alert you on mobile devices. These alarms are ideal for regions that experience a lot of rain and flooding, as they give you a heads-up before your pump stops working. Submersible sump pumps often have alarms.
Reserve Sump Pumps
Homeowners in areas that experience heavy flooding should also consider investing in a reserve sump pump. If water overpowers your primary pump, you can turn on your reserve pump to help with the overload. You can purchase a reserve pump for around $100 to $400.
What Factors Influence the Cost to Install a Sump Pump?
Several key factors affect the cost of installing a sump pump.
Battery Backups
Battery backups are great for folks who live in regions that experience frequent power outages, but they come at a cost. Sump pumps with battery backups cost an average of $1,220 to install, but combination units that run on water pressure and use a battery backup can cost hundreds more to install.
Concrete Flooring
Your home's flooring can significantly affect your sump pump installation costs. Concrete flooring is usually the most expensive installation since installers need to jackhammer through the floor to create space for the reservoir. If you have concrete floors, you can expect to pay an additional $2,500 to $5,000 for installation compared to most other types of flooring.
Installation Location
You should install pumps in the lowest area of your house, which could be your basement or a more hard-to-reach area, like a crawl space. If it's difficult for installers to access the area, you'll face higher installation costs. Complicated plumbing at the installation site can also increase costs.
Labor Costs
If you hire a professional to install your sump pump, you'll need to pay labor costs in addition to the cost of the pump. Installers usually charge around $45 to $200 per hour, and new sump pump installs typically take two to four hours to complete.
Should I Install a Sump Pump Myself or Hire a Pro?
Installing a sump pump yourself will save you money on labor costs, but it's a tricky undertaking that can result in significant flooding and water damage if not executed correctly. For that reason, we don't recommend installing a pump yourself unless you know exactly where to put it, how to hook it up, and how to troubleshoot any potential installation problems. If you're not well-versed in all things sump pumps, then look for sump pump installation services near you to find a pro to take on the job.
FAQs About Installing and Running Sump Pumps
How much electricity does a sump pump use?
Sump pumps use an average of 10 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month, but the size of your pump affects how much electricity it uses. Pedestal sump pumps, which are smaller than submersible sump pumps, usually feature around one-third to one-half horsepower motors, which amounts to about $15 to $20 per month in electricity costs. Submersible pumps, which often have three-quarter to one horsepower motors, typically cost $30 to $40 per month in electricity.
How much does it cost to replace a sump pump?
Sump pump replacement costs are lower than installing a sump pump in a new location. Installation times are shorter for replacements since installers don't usually need to drill or dig new holes. It typically costs $275 to $1,000 to replace one.
What signs indicate that I need to replace my sump pump?
If you notice any new sump pump noises, such as persistent clanging or gurgling, then you likely have a sump pump problem on your hands. Foul odors coming from the pump can also indicate problems. Additionally, if your unit turns on but doesn't pump water, you might have to address electrical problems. In any of these cases, it's a good idea to hire a professional to address the issue.
How much water does a sump pump use?
Some sump pumps are powered by water rather than electricity. Water-powered sump pumps generally use one gallon of city water to pump out two gallons of water from its basin. Therefore, if you're looking at a potential 10,000-gallon flood, your sump pump will need to use 5,000 gallons of city water to prevent it.
How long do sump pumps last?
Pedestal sump pumps last for 20 to 25 years, while submersible pumps last 5 to 15 years. Pedestal sump pumps are also easier and less expensive to service than submersible pumps.
Does everyone need a sump pump?
Not everyone needs a sump pump. They're best for homes susceptible to flooding in the event of light to moderate rain. If your home is at low risk for flooding, you probably don't need to worry about installing a sump pump.
