How to Replace a Sump Pump – Step-by-Step Directions
In this article, we are going to walk you through how to replace a sump pump. This article includes links to all the materials and tools you will need for the job. If you purchase from the links, we do earn a commission.
To determine what sump pump to use as a replacement, we reached out to two experts. They recommended the Zoeller M53 with a 3-year warranty and a plastic impeller, or the Zoeller M63 with a 5-year warranty and a cast iron impeller; both are solid options. We ended up going with the M63 because of the better warranty and parts.
Step 1:
Remove the sump cover.
Step 2:
Get water pumped out by lifting the float switch.
Step 3:
Unplug the old sump pump.
Step 4:
Remove the old check valve. Be careful when you do this. Otherwise, you’re going to have some nasty water that comes down on you. To avoid this, loosen it first and let the water slowly trickle down and drain before fully disconnecting it.
Step 5:
Remove the old sump. Our issue was the float switch.
Step 6:
Add a water alarm. This one runs off a 9V battery.
- Before installing, you want to test it to make sure the sensors work.
- Once it is tested, it will be screwed to the side of the sump basket. On this model we will remove the suction cup and use a ¾ inch stainless steel screw to screw it to the side of the sump basket.
- Then you will mount the alarm to the wall with the provided hardware.
- Finish by pushing the test button to test the alarm.
Step 7:
Next, add Teflon tape to the 1.5 inch threaded adapter before screwing it into the sump pump.
Step 8:
Place the sump pump in the sump basket.
Step 9:
Add the new check valve.
Step 10:
Measure from the check valve to the bottom of the thread adaptor on the sump pump to get the pipe length.
Step 11:
Measure and cut the pipe. We use 1.5-inch Schedule 40 solid core PVC pipe. Be sure to chamfer and deburr the pipe once it’s cut.
Step 12:
Add a 3/16 vent hole. To do this, place the pipe in the thread adaptor and mark a spot even with the top of the sump. Remove the pipe and drill the hole.
Tip: Start drilling a hole, once started, tip the drill bit up slightly, and finish drilling at an angle. This will ensure that when water sprays out, it will spray down towards the bottom of the sump basket and not up towards the cover or alarm.
Step 13:
Glue the pipe in place, making sure that the vent hole is pointed away from the alarm sensor. Give it a quarter turn as you push the pipe in place. Then hold it in place for about 30 seconds.
Step 14:
Zip tie the sump pump power cord to the pipe so it doesn’t get in the way, and plug it in.
Step 15:
Slide the check valve back in place and tighten the fittings.
Step 16:
Test the sump pump by running some water down it. You can also test it by gently pulling up on the float switch. The sump pump should turn on and pump water.
Note: This sump pump has a lighted plug, so you can easily see that it has power.
Step 17:
Reinstall the sump cover.
If you want to see how to replace an old sump cover with a clear Lexan cover, check out this video.
Step 18:
We like to install a second water alarm in a strategic location on the ground to help detect potential water leaks from the sump’s check valve, a failing water heater, or a burst pipe. Using the included hardware, install the alarm.
Step 19:
If your home has a radon system, it is very important that you seal the sump cover. To seal it, use a clear silicone to seal any gaps or cracks in the cover.
That is how you replace a failing sump pump.
Full List Of Materials Used:
- Zoeller M53 Sump Pump – https://amzn.to/422Dgpo
- Zoeller M63 Premium Sump Pump – https://amzn.to/3XTuIi5
- Water Alarm – https://amzn.to/4ji53YC
- Stainless Screws – https://amzn.to/42o3qBO
- Teflon Tape – https://amzn.to/42p07uf
- 1.5 Inch Threaded Adapter – https://amzn.to/3EayY6i
- Quiet Check Valve – https://amzn.to/3FWBWvN
- 1.5 Inch PVC Pipe – https://amzn.to/427BW4J
- PVC Primer and Cement – https://amzn.to/4ls7Gcs
- Zip Ties – https://amzn.to/427CfMV
- Clear Silicone – https://amzn.to/4jJPw4j
Full List Of Tools Used:
- Milwaukee Drill & Driver Combo – https://amzn.to/4lp3iuv
- 5/16 Nut Driver – https://amzn.to/3Eeze44
- Milwaukee Level – https://amzn.to/42CnPV5
- Masonry Drill Bit – https://amzn.to/4ls6dCY
- Milwaukee Vac – https://amzn.to/44oOQfU
- Reed Pipe Cutter – https://amzn.to/4ji6MNA
- Chamfering Tool – https://amzn.to/423Ucfb
- Deburring Tool – https://amzn.to/3RbQpWW
- 3/16 Drill Bit – https://amzn.to/3XNkkIL
- Caulk Gun – https://amzn.to/3YojJxc
