Sump Pump Cost to Install and Maintain – Detailed Guide

A sump pump is a small pump you’ll put in a crawlspace or basement to help prevent the area from flooding and causing a host of issues related to water damage. Your pump will get installed in a pit that is at the lowest level of your basement, and this unique installation leads many people to wonder about the sump pump cost to buy a unit and install it. This is especially true when you consider what workhorses this small piece of equipment is and how much it can save your home. When water creeps toward the pit and the pump, it kicks on and it will start to pump water away from the building through piping that dumps the water outside or into your wastewater system. 

You can install your sump pump in houses with underground crawl spaces or basements, and they’re a very popular addition to new houses during the construction process whether or not they have a flooding risk. Since your sump pump cost can quickly climb into the thousands, it’s important that you weigh the pros and cons of having this equipment installed. If you have a current basement, this could be a great time to add it when you renovate. If you’re building new, you may want to discuss the sump pump cost with your contractor and see how much it’d add to your project total to include it. 

Since you can offset your sump pump cost by the fact that it can prevent massive water damage down the line, many people find it easy to justify it. Additionally, the national average sump pump cost range starts at $700 and goes up to $1,600. Most people pay $1,100 to buy the unit and install it. You can also choose a DIY solution and install a pedestal pump for around $300. If you want two submersible pumps that include hours of plumbing and electrical labor to install it, your sump pump cost is going to be around $4,000. 

There is a decent sump pump cost range at play, and this is why it’s important that you get several quotes from local companies. Also, you want to find out what the biggest sump pump cost factors are and see if they apply to your situation. This guide will outline all of these factors for you, and you can use it to get an idea of your unique sump pump cost. 

A sump pump is something you want to have in your home to protect you against water damage or flooding. There are several styles and sizes available that you can tailor to fit your needs. Sump pump by State Farm / CC BY 2.0

Weighing Your Sump Pump Cost and Horsepower

The motors in the sump pumps have different horsepower ratings attached to them, and they can average in cost from $100 to $500. It’s a good idea to do your research prior to purchasing your new sump pump to get a good idea on the horsepower requirements you’ll need. Your home’s square footage, basement size, and how often you have plumbing issues or water problems will all play in. 

So, if you’re someone who lives in a dryer area like a desert or on top of a hill where you have few flooding concerns, you should be able to get away with a lower horsepower sump pump. For anyone in a larger home that is in the middle of a flood zone, you’ll want more horsepower to ensure it can keep up with the increased demand. 

Every sump pump and house come with unique requirements, and the sump pump’s total capacity will depend heavily on the power source, type, brand, and design. Some of the most popular horsepower ratings include: 

0.25 Horsepower

This horsepower rating typically handles 1,700 to 3,000 gallons per hour, depending on the design and brand. The sump pump cost range starts at $100 and goes up to $250. This is one of the most cost-effective and lowest horsepower options available. It’ll give you a slow and steady pump rate, and houses outside of any flood zones in dry climates can benefit from having it on-hand. Make sure it’s from a reputable brand. 

0.33 Horsepower

The average sump pump cost for a 0.33 horsepower unit ranges from $100 to $270, and this makes it almost as cost-effective as the 0.25 horsepower model. The material and how many gallons per hour it can pump will make the price fluctuate. This horsepower level allows your sump pump to handle between 1,800 and 3,500 gallons of water every hour. It’s a cost-effective choice that is a solid pick for people who live in an area that has a low or moderate flooding risk. 

0.5 Horsepower

This sump pump gives you a little higher capacity than the smaller ones, and this puts the sump pump cost range between $150 and $300. It works best for basements that get moderate flooding and have lower humidity, but it’s not powerful enough for areas in the middle of flood zones. Ideally, this pump can cycle through 2,000 to 4,000 gallons per hour, but it will depend on the energy efficiency and design which end of the spectrum yours falls into. 

1 Horsepower

As the horsepower goes up, so does your pump’s effectiveness when it comes to clearing out water in as short of an amount of time as possible. This sump pump cost starts at $200 and goes up to $325, and it can clear out 2,500 to 5,500 gallons of water an hour, depending on the construction and brand. It’s a good pick if you’ve had flooding issues in the past or if you live in an area that gets routine heavy rainfall. 

2 Horsepower

This sump pump cost starts at $250 and goes up to $400 for an average range. It’s usually more expensive to get a pump with two horsepower, but they’re critical for people who live in the center of a floodplain. They’re also a good choice if your home is at the bottom of a valley or hill in a wet area. Since this is a slightly higher horsepower rating, it can easily handle between 5,000 and 10,000 gallons an hour. If you need on the higher end, double-check the product’s specifications before you buy it. 

3 Horsepower

This is one of the most powerful sump pumps available, and a larger home that has a concern for flooding could benefit from having it. The sump pump cost falls between $300 and $500. It’s a high-capacity, heavy-duty pump that is more expensive, but it makes up for it by handling $7,000 gallons an hour and up. It should come with a very smooth operation and a backup system in place that will take care of any excess water. 

How Material Affects Sump Pump Costs

The material your sump pump uses in the design will impact your sump pump cost. They can use several different types of materials, some certain materials work better in specific environments. The materials can vary in price from $75.00 to $300, and the most popular are cast iron, plastic, and stainless steel. 

Cast Iron Pump Material

The sump pump cost for one made out of cast iron ranges from $150 to $300. It’s extremely durable, and this makes it popular. They will eventually erode, but this can take years, and they can last up to 25 years with the proper maintenance. This gives them a longer lifespan than other materials. 

This is also a much heavier material than other choices, so moving it around can be difficult. You’ll also need professional help to install and maintain it. This pump will run at a cooler temperature, and they work best for flood-prone areas in large basements. 

Plastic Pump Material

As a general rule, pumps made out of plastic are less expensive than stainless steel or cast iron. The sump pump cost is more budget-friendly at $75.00 to $200. You can use plastic for pedestal and submersible-style pumps, but they’re more likely to crack and require you to replace them much quicker. It works nicely for homes that are at a lower risk for flooding or that are in relatively dry planting zones where it won’t need to work a lot to keep the area dry. 

Stainless Steel Material 

Stainless steel is very durable, and this is why the sump pump costs between $150 and $300. If you’re after a very durable option that isn’t as bulky or heavy as cast-iron, stainless steel is a solid choice. Stainless steel doesn’t work well in heat, and it’ll stay hot for a while once it heats up. It’s very difficult to break or crack, and it’s a rust-resistant material that works well in water-based applications. 

Choosing the correct material for your location will dictate how long your sump pump lasts and withstands repeated use and water. Some materials are more durable than others. Basement – Sump Pump by Tino Rossini / CC BY 2.0

Picking a Sump Pump Type

You can choose from pedestal or submersible sump pumps, and their sump pump costs range from $80.00 to $300. A pedestal pump will sit on a stand to keep it out of the water in the pump pit, and there is a pipe that connects the pump to the bottom of the pit to pull the water out. A submersible pump sits on the floor of the pit in the water in a waterproof casing. When the water levels go up, the pump cycles water through the bottom and pulls it towards outlet pipes. 

Pedestal Pump

The average sump pump cost range for a pedestal model is $80.00 to $180 for materials alone. This includes the hose that drains into the pit, and the motor that sits on a pedestal. It’ll draw the water up and out of the pit to avoid flooding or water damage. This can help inhibit mold growth too. A lower-horsepower model can handle minor flooding. The motor will engage what a float located in the reservoir rises with the water level. Eventually, it’ll trip a switch and turn the pump on. 

The design makes them a more affordable pump to service, and it also makes it easy to get at it. The pedestal can get in the way of doing work on the basement like renovations though. When you install it properly, the motor can run for up to 30 years. It is a louder option. 

Submersible Pump

This is a slightly more expensive option of the two types, and the average sump pump cost ranges from $130 to $300 for the pump by itself. It gets submerged under the water’s surface and sealed in to prevent the water from getting in and damaging your home. 

The pump and motor make up a second unit, and this gives you a lot of power for areas that get a lot of flooding. Since this pump is sealed beneath the surface, it also runs much quieter than a standard pedestal model will. They’re not as prone to clogging either, but they’re more challenging and expensive to repair. They’ll last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the flooding conditions, maintenance, and the brand. 

Price Points for Different Sump Pump Brands

You’ll notice that there are several different sump pump brands available on the current market, and many of these brands have different price points. The brand you pick out can influence the pump’s capabilities, type, and quality. You want to see what the different brands offer regarding warranties, maintenance, and installation support. A few of the more well-known brands include: 

Everbilt

The average sump pump cost for an Everbilt ranges from $230 up to $350. This is a line from Home Depot, and it’s slightly more affordable than other brands on the market. Many people find that it’s a good value for the money, and they offer a strong vertical lift with a heavy-duty cast iron construction. They also offer aluminium pumps with a vertical or tethered switch, and you can pick out several different horsepowers. 

FloTec

This is a cost-effective choice for a basement pump, and the sump pump cost range is more affordable at $130 to $200. They make submersible and pedestal types, and you can choose from cast iron, thermoplastic, or zinc materials. They have vertical and tethered pumps with a decent capacity at 3,000 gallons per hour. The pumps have a heat-resistant finish, and you can get automatic or manual operation modes. They come with a permanent split capacitor motor that is very energy-efficient. 

PitBoss

You’ll pay between $350 and $550 for your sump pump cost from this brand. They have a deluxe design on them that features stainless steel and cast iron to make them last longer. They’re a very energy-efficient choice with top suction and a 5-amp motor that helps to reduce the chances of clogging or air locking. It has a redesigned float switch, and you get a deluxe kit that comes with a silencer check valve, float switch, pump, and a boot. 

TripleSafe

You get triple protection with this brand with three separate pumps that pull the water out of your home. The sump pump cost is steeper with this brand at $500 to $750 on average. The first pump in the lineup is a ⅓ horsepower pump made using cast iron. It has a capacity of 2,600 gallons per hour, and it’s the primary pump on the setup. The second pump will automatically turn on if the primary pump gets overwhelmed or fails, and it has a maximum capacity of 6,200 gallons per hour. The third and final pump turns on automatically if the power fails as it’s battery-operated. 

Watchdog

This is a popular sump pump brand that offers pumps ranging from $300 to $450. You can choose from several sizes, but most people pick the ⅓, ½ or 1 horsepower models. They have stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, or thermoplastic materials, and most of their products come with a built-in tether switch or a protective cage surrounding a dual float switch. There are also backup options available that you can switch on if the main pump stops working. 

Wayne

The capacity will dictate the sump pump cost with this brand, and it runs between $150 and $250. This is a budget-friendly option, and the company excels in creating basement protection systems, sump pumps, lawn pumps, and sewer pumps. They have thermoplastic, cast iron, or a mix of the two for material choices. You can also choose a backup battery system that gives you better protection if you live in an area that has significant flood or heavy rain threats. 

Zoeller

Zoeller is a brand that offers a broad range of sump pumps to fit different areas. Your average sump pump cost with this company starts at $250 and goes up to $375. They make commercial and residential submersible pumps that resist corrosion and are water-tight. You can get cast iron or bronze cases and sleeve bearings to help support the design, and they have either a cast iron or engineer thermoplastic base. 

Choosing a reputable manufacturer for your sump pump is one way to ensure that you get a high-quality product that is going to last for years and perform at peak condition. Sump Pump Central by Alan Levine / CC BY 2.0

Sump Pump Installation Costs

Your labor costs will influence your total sump pump cost, and labor can account for $300 to $4,000 of the project total. The equipment involved and the time it takes to install it will all factor in. If you want to put in a standard pedestal pump, there will be less prep work and digging than you’ll need for a submersible pump. A plumber will typically charge between $45.00 and $200 an hour. The project’s complexity also plays a role in your sump pump cost. 

Your flooring will come into play too. You’ll have to include the cost to bury your sump pump’s discharge pipe, and this cost ranges from $250 to $2,000. Most sump pumps go in basements, and they could have gravel or dirt floors that are easier to work with. However, having a cement floor is harder to work with, and it can boost your labor time by three or four hours. Cleanup costs will also factor in, and it’s not uncommon for your sump pump cost to rise by $700 to $1,600 to install a submersible-style pump in a cement or concrete floor. 

Installing a Sump Pump Basin

On average, yoru sump pump basin will cost between $100 and $600 to install. If you already have one, you won’t need a new one. The contractor will drill a pit for the water after they find out the lowest area of the house. Depending on the basement and flooring type, they could have to bring in drilling equipment or a jackhammer. They’ll have to clear out dirt to create the basin before connecting it to your existing drainage system. 

Replacing Your Sump Pump

If you have to replace your pump, the sump pump cost ranges from $350 to $700. This will take several hours to complete, depending on the new sump pump requirements and the flooring type. There usually isn’t as much prep work with a replacement as there is with an installation because the drainage system and piping is already in place. 

There are signs that you need a new pump, including excessive noise, foul odors, or standing water. If you’re constantly fixing your sump pump, it could be time for a new one. The age of your pump is also important, but most can go to 20 to 30 years before you need a replacement. 

Inspection Prices

Depending on how complex the system is, your inspection costs could run between $100 and $350. You’ll want to bring in a qualified professional at least once a year to perform an inspection. The inspector will test your pump to see how fast it starts and how efficiently it gets rid of water. They’ll also look for malfunctioning or worn components and make note of them. It should cover all parts of your pump, including the floor drain and valve to the float switch and liner. 

Cost to Maintain Your Sump Pump

You’ll have to bring in an experienced plumber to perform your maintenance, and this can cost between $100 and $300. If you require repairs, yoru sump pump costs can go up to between $200 and $500. Proper maintenance means that you look at your pump every three or four months, and you also want to do your professional-grade inspection once a year. This will help keep the pump in good working condition. 

You may also want to test your pump to see if the free floating ball indicates everything is working and that your pedestal is straight. Having a submersible pump is harder to maintain, and you want to call in a professional at least once a year. Ideally, they’ll come in every three months for a check. 

Optional Improvement Prices

There are a few optional items you can choose to add if you have room in your budget for higher sump pump costs. These items are meant to make using the pump more convenient for you, and they include but are not limited to: 

• Battery Backup – If the power goes out, your pump can quit working. You’ll pay between $150 and $1,500 for a battery-powered backup, depending on the brand or quality.  It’s a nice emergency precaution to keep the water out while the power is out. 

• Filter – Filters work to keep smaller debris out of your pump to stop them from clogging it or causing problems. It can also help the pump last longer, and filters are relatively inexpensive at $15.00 to $35.00 each. 

• Water Alarm – A water alarm will monitor any water levels in your home and alarm if the levels rise to the point of triggering the pump. They cost $15.00 to $30.00 on average, but they can easily go up to $100 each for a more sophisticated setup. 

Where to Find Sump Pump Installers Near You

If you’re trying to figure out your sump pump cost and you want to get quotes from local companies, this resource will help you find all of the sump pump installers near you. They include: 

• Faucet & Plumbing Repair Services

Frequently Asked Questions 

Understanding the process involved in installing a pump and the professionals you’ll need to bring in will all help you get a more accurate sump pump cost estimate. Sump Pump by Tino Rossini / CC BY 2.0

1. Do you have to call a plumber to install the sump pump?

A general contractor more than likely has the qualifications needed to install your sump pump if you have a trench dug. If not, you may need to call in a plumber to lay any necessary piping. If you have wood or tile flooring, extra labor costs can add up because they’ll have to remove a small section to bury the pump. 

2. How does a sump pump work?

The pump detects any water present when it hits a set water level on the pedestal or in the pit. Once the water hits this height, the pump will switch on and pull the water up out of the pit. In then pumps it through a hose or pipe into an area outside of your home to prevent flooding. 

3. What is the average lifespan of a sump pump?

Your sump pump can last between 5 and 30 years. Pedestal-style pumps tend to last longer at 15 to 30 years, submersible pumps last between 5 to 15 years. Exposure to significant flooding and how well you maintain the pump will all factor into how long it lasts. 

Bottom Line

Your sump pump cost has several factors that influence it, and knowing these factors can help you create a realistic budget. We’ve outlined several things you want to consider when you start doing your research, and you can use this guide to help you pick out the best sump pump to keep your home dry and water-free.