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How to replace a sump pump

We'll replace the old pump with a new one—from disconnect to test.

How-to · Home plumbing
30–60 min
What you'll need
  • New sump pump (match capacity and head to your needs)
  • Brick or pedestal (to raise the pump off the bottom)
  • Bucket (to remove water from the pit)

At a glance

  • Unplug the old pump and disconnect the discharge pipe from the check valve.
  • Lift the old pump out of the pit; clean debris from the pit before installing the new one.
  • Set the new pump on a brick or pedestal so the intake is off the bottom.
  • Reconnect the check valve and discharge pipe; plug in and test with a bucket of water.
  • Match the new pump's capacity and head height to your pit depth and discharge distance.
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Steps

Goal: Replace the old pump with a new one.

  • Unplug the pump. Disconnect the discharge pipe from the check valve or pump.
  • Good: Pump is disconnected. Proceed to Remove the old pump.
  • Bad: Connection is stuck—use a wrench or penetrating oil.

Remove the old pump

Goal: Take out the old pump and clean the pit.

  • Lift the pump out. Clean debris from the pit. Check the liner.
  • Good: Pit is clean. Proceed to Install the new pump.
  • Bad: Pit is full—bail or wait for it to drain.

Install the new pump

Goal: Set the new pump and connect the discharge.

  • Place a brick or pedestal. Set the pump on it. Connect the check valve and discharge pipe.
  • Good: Pump is connected. Proceed to Plug in and test.
  • Bad: Discharge pipe does not fit—you may need an adapter or different pump.

Plug in and test

Goal: Power the pump and verify it works.

  • Plug the pump in. Pour water into the pit. Pump should turn on and drain.
  • Good: Pump cycles correctly. Proceed to Verification.
  • Bad: Pump does not run—check power, float switch, and connections.

When to get help

Call a plumber if:

  • The discharge line is damaged or needs to be rerouted.
  • The pit is collapsing or the liner is damaged.
  • The pump runs but does not move water (may be a blockage or wrong pump for the application).

Verification

  • Pump turns on when water is added to the pit.
  • Water discharges outside.
  • Pump turns off when the pit is empty.
  • Cover is in place.

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

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