Sump Pump Cost Installation & Replacement Prices

Don’t let your remodeling budget go over-board by hidden surprises – understand what the average costs of a sump pump installation is near you by using our simple to use calculator.

As an experienced licensed home improvement contractor, I know first hand what it should cost for various levels — from Basic, Better, and of course the best.

The sump pump estimator will provide you with up to date pricing near you. Simply enter your zip code, click update and you will see a breakdown on what it should cost to have sump pump installed in your home.

Sump Pump Cost Calculator
Zip Code Per Unit
Basic Better Best
Material Prices $140.00 – $195.00 $250.00 – $375.00 $425.00 – $625.00
Installation Cost $650.00 – $850.00 $1100.00 – $1500.00 $1800.00 – $3200.00
Total $790.00 – $1045.00 $1350.00 – $1875.00 $2225.00 – $3825.00
Total Average Sump Pump Cost $917.50 $1612.50 $3025.00

How Much Does a Sump pump Installation cost?

Your home is an investment, so if water gets into the basement every time it rains, it’s time to consider a sump pump. The cost of a new installation ranges from $650 to $1800 for the pump plus labor — most homeowners spend about $1200 depending on the type of pump and the complexity of installation. Replacement sump pumps cost between $140 –$340 – not including labor.

National Sump Pump Installation Cost Average
National Average $1200
Low $650
Mid-range $1350
High-end $2225.00 – $3825.00

Type of Sump Pumps

Sump pumps keep your basement or crawlspace dry. Installed in a hole called a sump pit at the lowest point on the floor, they automatically removes water as it enters and discharge it through a drain pipe.

There are two types of pumps: pedestal and submersible.

A pedestal pump has two parts — a base that sits in the sump pit — and a top-mounted motor that sits above the pit where it stays dry. A float mechanism similar to those used in toilets is attached to the motor. It hangs in the pit, and when water level rises, it engages the pump.

Submersible pumps work the same way, but they’re all-in-one units that fit neatly in the sump pit.

Sump Pump Installation Costs

Sump pumps and installation costs vary according to style and material.

Pump Style

Pedestal Pumps

Because pedestal pumps require no waterproofing for the motor, they’re typically less expensive at $78 – $190. With less exposure to moisture, they can last up to thirty years, and they cost less to install or repair because the major components are above ground. Expect to pay $550 – $800 for first-time installation.

Pedestal pumps are not, however, as effective at clearing large volumes of water, and they’re louder than submersible pumps. They’re ideal for homes with minor water issues — but they may struggle in a significant flood.

Submersible Pumps

Submersible pump motors require both water- and rust-proofing, so on average, you’ll pay 30% more for one — $140 to $310. Set-up is also more challenging. Fees run from $600 for a straightforward installation to $1200 for a more elaborate system.

Motors come in sizes up to ½ horsepower and are more powerful than comparable pedestal versions. Despite their large size, they don’t make as much noise because they sit underground. Constant exposure to water does increase wear and tear regardless of protective design features. Better quality pumps will last 10 –30 years.

Pump Material

Sump pumps are made of either plastic of cast-iron.
Plastic pumps are less expensive, and they stand up to the corrosive materials sometimes found in floodwater. Unfortunately, their housings tend to crack under high pressure, so plastic is used mostly in pedestal pumps or low-end submersibles under $200.

Cast-iron pumps are heavier. They can handle a higher volume and nearly infinite pressure, but they’re prone to corrosion despite protective exterior coatings. Expect to pay as much as $400 for top-of-the-line cast-iron models.

Installation fees are similar for both plastic and cast-iron pumps.

Installation Considerations

Location

Sump pumps are installed at the lowest point of your foundation. Rerouting plumbing or moving fixtures that are in the way adds to the cost of labor.

Geographical Area

The cost of labor varies significantly from area to area. Demand for plumbing services is higher in urban areas, and that supports higher prices. Rural homeowners may pay a lower hourly rate, but fees for long-distance travel may offset the savings.

Floor Type

Digging a sump pit in a dirt or gravel floor is easy work, but concrete needs to be hammered. At an average cost of $60-$95 per hour, working with a concrete floor will add 10-15% to the cost of installation.

Sump Pump Features

If your basement is prone to flooding, a single standard sump pump may not be foolproof protection. Unique features and system upgrades add to the cost of installation, but for some homeowners, it’s a small price to pay for security.

Popular choices include:

Battery Backups

Standard sump pumps need electricity to operate, so if there’s a power outage, you’re out of luck. For $140–$220, a battery backup ensures your pump is ready to work when needed.

Batteries come alone or with maintainers that keep them fully charged. Each has a rating equal to the number of hours it will operate your pump — the bigger the pump motor, the more power it uses. A larger battery helps protect your basement during an extended outage.

Pump Filters

Sump pumps have filters that keep coarse debris out, but sand and silt still pass through. Adding an optional fine filter decreases the chance of clogging.

Moisture Alarms

A moisture alarm is a simple electronic device mounted near your sump pump that alerts you when the water level is rising. It helps you be aware of when the pump should engage, allowing you to take swift action if it malfunctions.

Back-up Pumps

Homeowners in flood-prone areas benefit from installing side by side sump pumps. A redundant system ensures at least one pump is available if the other breaks down, and if both work, they can pump double the volume of water.

Choose a second electric pump, or opt for a water-powered backup that operates on pressure from your municipal water supply. Water-driven pumps, however, don’t work with wells or if water to the main is cut.

Cost to Replace an Existing Sump Pump

If your sump pump is noisy or stops working entirely, it’s time to consider a replacement. Unless it’s still under warranty, replacing a pump is typically a better value than fixing it.

Replacing an existing sump costs less than a first-time installation because the work to build the sump is already done. On average, homeowners pay $140 –$240 for the pump and an additional $350 –$400 for six hours of labor.

Choosing a pump is simple. If your existing pump met your needs, select a similar model. A 1/3 HP pump does the trick for most homes. If it didn’t, consider an upgrade. Pump with ½ HP motors can move considerably more water and are better choices for homes with significant flooding issues.

Professional Sump Pump Installation vs. DIY

Installing a sump pump requires only basic plumbing skills and a few tools that most homeowners have handy — but because it’s a job that mixes electricity and water, there’s always a risk of electrocution. And if the pump isn’t installed correctly, homeowner’s insurance won’t pay for either water or mold damage.

While you can save up to $1000 by installing a sump pump yourself, attempt it only if you have the know-how to do it safely.

FAQs

Can a sump pump eliminate mold in my basement?

Moisture encourages the growth of mold, so a sump pump can reduce it as part of a broader dehumidification system.

How large is a sump pit?

A sump pit should allow at least one inch of clearance around the pump. A 2-foot by 2.5-foot hole is usually sufficient.

Why is a check valve important?

Check valves prevent wastewater from returning to the pit. Continuously recycling the same water causes unnecessary wear and tear on your pump and adds to the cost of power.

How much does it cost to run a sump pump?

Utility costs vary by area, but most homeowners will spend between $3.60 and $5.10 per month. So-called “green” sump pumps built with Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) motors cost $40-$60 more up-front, but they use up to 60% less energy. In high-rate areas, the added investment pays for itself in a year.

How can I save on sump pump installation?

Sump pump installation isn’t cheap, but you can lower the cost by digging the sump pit yourself and ensuring the work area is as clean and accessible as possible. If the plumber doesn’t get a contractor discount on pumps, save money by researching prices on the model of your choice.

How long are sump pump warranties?

Low-end pumps have as little as 30-day guarantees. Expect 3–5 year limited warranties from leading manufacturers, such as Zoeller, Flotec and Wayne.

Final Thoughts

A quality sump pump is all that stands between water and your foundation. A few dollars worth of prevention can save you thousands in costly repairs.

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