How to Hook Up a Basement Waste & Sump Pump

A common problem in many basements is the accumulation of water from seepage or leaks. Removing this unwanted water can help prevent many long term problems including health concerns. One of the most efficient and reliable methods of removing water from a basement is to use a sump pump.

Things You'll Need

• Jackhammer
• Tape measure
• Wood framing
• Chalk
• Shovel
• Hammer
• Nails
• Wheelbarrow
• Cement
• Drain Pipe
• Electrical Wiring
• GFCI Outlet
• Ear and Eye Protection

Instructions

1. Determine the best location for the sump. This should be in the lowest portion of the basement, or where water gathers. At the center of this location draw a square that is 18 inches by 18 inches.

2. Break apart the concrete in the square using an electric jack hammer. Do not hurry through this process. You should expect to have some cracking and breakage outside of the square you have drawn but if you work at a slow pace and are careful you should be able to minimize the unwanted damage. Remove all the broken pieces of concrete and make certain the new hole is the required size. With this complete, dig out the loose dirt to a depth of 24 inches below the floor's surface.

3. Build a wooden frame inside the hole allowing for three to four inches on each side. Support the frame above the hole by extending boards across the opening. The frame should hang to within three inches of the bottom of the hole. Around the top inside portion of the frame insert 1 by 1 inch boards. This will create a lip on which you will install a grate to cover the opening.

4. Mix the cement in the wheelbarrow and slowly pour in around the frame. Be certain it completely fills the bottom of the hole and is as level as possible. You should bring the concrete to the top of the form and even with the broken edges of the concrete to form a smooth flat surface. Allow the concrete to sit a minimum of 24 hours before removing the frame.

5. Install the sump pump at the base of the hole. Carefully cut a hole in the grate covering to allow the drain pipe to exit. Plumb this pipe up and out of the basement. It should carry the water away from the house's foundation to prevent it from reentering the basement. Near the new sump, install an outlet box and pull wire from the breaker panel the the outlet box. Install a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interruption) outlet, being certain to attach the white wire to the load side of the outlet and the black wire to the terminal marked "line." Plug in the sump pump and it is ready to operate. Sump pumps activate automatically when water gathers in the sump.

Tips & Warnings

• Sump pumps come in either submersible or pedestal styles. A submersible pump will offer a cleaner and neater look to the floor area.

• Make certain all electrical power to the area has been turned off before beginning any electrical work.

References

• Sump Pump Installation
• GFCI Devices
• Sump Pumps