Installing a sump pump on your own is technically possible, but it’s far from an easy DIY project. There are plenty of chances for things to go wrong if you lack proper experience or tools.
With that in mind, this sump pump installation company in Northbrook, Illinois is going to explain some of the key things you should know before attempting the project yourself.
The steps involved in a sump pump installation
First, you will need to dig a sump pit in the basement floor. Once the hole is deep enough, set the sump basin so it sits flush with the floor. You’ll then need to surround it with gravel to ensure proper drainage. From here, things can get more complicated.
You will now have to lower the pump onto a level surface, like a paver or flat stone. This is to keep dirt or loose gravel from getting inside the basin, which can otherwise cause impeller wear or jamming.
Next is the discharge pipe installation. For this, you will have to run a PVC pipe from the pump, through the wall and out of the house. This is to direct water away from the foundation. A check valve must also be added to this line to prevent water from coursing back into the basin when the pump shuts off. Without a check valve, the pump can run endlessly as water cycles back into the pit.
After the plumbing work comes the electrical work. The pump should always be plugged into a dedicated outlet because using an extension cord or sharing a circuit can be dangerous. At this point, you can also install a battery backup so the pump can run even during a power outage.
As you can see, there are many different areas where it is easy to make mistakes. With all these considerations in mind, many homeowners prefer to leave these projects in the hands of a professional sump pump installation company in Northbrook, Illinois.
The risks of DIY sump pump installation
One of the biggest risks of DIY sump pump installation is wrong pit placement. If the sump basin is not installed at the lowest point where water collects, it will not catch all the water. This will leave other areas of the basement at risk of pooling.
Incorrect discharge-pipe routing is another common risk. If the line does not slope away from the home, the discharged water can flow right back toward the foundation. This, of course, defeats the entire purpose of the pump.
Electrical risks are also common. Because these pumps run on electricity, even a small wiring mistake can pose a fire risk or cause equipment malfunction.
On top of these risks, many DIY sump pump installations stall halfway simply because the physical work can be a lot. Digging the pit, leveling the basin, running and sealing the discharge pipe, installing the check valve and handling the electrical work can all be a lot more complicated than they look. And if any part of the installation is done incorrectly, the consequences can be serious.
For these reasons, it is generally safer to let a professional sump pump installation company in Northbrook, Illinois handle the job instead of taking on the risks yourself.
Looking for a sump pump installation company in Northbrook, Illinois?
Do you want to protect your home from water damage with a sump pump? If so, and if you’re looking for the top-rated sump pump installation company in Northbrook, Illinois, look no further than R. Carrozza Plumbing Co. Contact us today to schedule a service visit.