How to Connect a Sump Pump Line to the Sewer Line

Check local codes to see if a sump pump can be connected to the sewer line.

Connecting a sump pump to an existing sewer line can be completed as a do-it-yourself project for under $100. However, some municipalities do not allow a sump pump to be connected to the sewer line. If it is legal in your area, you can accomplish this task in a few hours.

Things You'll Need

• PVC "Y" connector 3-inch x 3-inch x 1 1/2-inch
• PVC glue
• Saw
• Rubber coupling
• 1-1/2-inch check valve
• 1-1/2-inch PVC pipe
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Locate the main sewer line. This line is usually a 3- or 4-inch PVC pipe.

2. Cut the sewer line to the proper size. Measure from end to end of the "Y." Subtract 4 inches from the measurement to allow for the the coupling portion of the "Y" to slide onto the pipe.

3. Clean off any plastic shavings that are left over from the cutting.

4. Apply glue on each end of the existing sewer line pipe.

5. Attach the "Y" fitting onto the sewer line, ensuring that the each end goes into the fitting approximately 2 inches. Rotate the fitting until the 1 1/2-inch fitting is declining slightly. Hold the fitting together tightly for 10 seconds.

6. Add a 2-foot PVC pipe onto the sump pump using a rubber coupling. Tighten screws firmly.

7. Attach the check valve to the 2-foot PVC pipe. The the directional arrow shown on the check valve must point up.

8. Measure the distance from the end of the check valve to the height of the "Y" fitting.

9. Cut a piece of PVC pipe according to the distance measured in the previous step.

10. Attach this piece of pipe onto the opposite end of the check valve and tighten.

11. Connect the pipe to the "Y" fitting using the appropriate PVC fittings. You will use different angles depending on the proximity of the sump pump to the "Y" fitting. Always glue each joint that has two PVC connections.

12. Turn on the sump pump and observe all fittings. Look for any leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Insert the "Y" in a location where you have some room to move the pipe back and forth.

• Make sure that no one in the building uses water during the process.

• Check with your local government for regulations concerning sump pump water disposal methods.

• Assemble the check valve properly according to the flow of water.

References

• Check This House: House Sump Pump -- Have You Checked Yours Lately?