Well Pump Installation Guide - Zoeller Home Water Solutions (2023)

Well Pump Installation Guide

If your home's basement floods or is likely to flood, you should invest in a sturdy and reliable sump pump. This small but sturdy pump draws water from your basement to prevent flooding and help keep your valuables safe. If you live in a humid area or are concerned about storm damage to your basement, a sump pump can give you peace of mind.

While you can hire a professional plumber to install a sump pump on your property, there is an additional cost to installing a sump pump. This is a task you can take on with a little knowledge. Whether you're replacing an old pump or deciding to install a new one, we have the tools and instructions you need to successfully install a DIY sump pump. Use this guide to learn how to install a sump pump in your home.

What is a sump pump?

ONEsewage pumpA device that drains excess water from the basement. Even if you don't live in an area that gets a lot of rain, you never know if you'll run into a random storm that could flood your entire living space.

How do sump pumps work? Thispumping system in the tankKnown as a sump or well, it is located in a hole in the lowest level of a basement or crawl space. As soon as the float switch on the pump detects standing water, it automatically activates and removes the water from the house. Once cleaned of water, it goes off.

If you are wondering if you need this type of pump in your home, here are some reasons to buy a sump pump:

• Reduce the risk of flooding:During a storm, flooding can occur if water seeps into your basement or crawl space. Since the sump pump controls the flow of water away from your home's foundation, your property will not experience flooding in the short or long term. Therefore, sump pumps can also improve the indoor air quality of your living space by removing excess moisture.
• Prevents the growth of mold and mildew:Standing water in basements can create mold. These fungi can cause structural damage to your home's woodwork and cause allergies and respiratory problems in your family. When a sump pump removes standing water in your basement, mold and mildew are less likely to form in your living space.
• Keep insects and other pests away:Excessive moisture can wear down the wood beams and walls within the frame of your home. As wood rots, it attracts termites, ants and rodents, which introduce pollutants and unpleasant odors into your living space. Removing standing water with a sump pump can reduce the risk of pest infestation.
• To reduce the possibility of fire or electrical damage:Water and electrical appliances cannot mix. If the wires connected to the washer, dryer or other appliances get wet, it can cause a power outage or even a fire in extreme cases. Reduce the risk of damage to your property by preventing water from flooding your basement or crawl space.

Factors to consider when choosing a domestic sewage pump

When choosing the best sump pump for your home, you should consider several factors. If you are replacing an existing sump pump, you should order the same type unless you are experiencing major problems. Check the nameplate that came with your unit for the information you need to order new equipment. If you are installing a brand new sump pump system, check out the features below to help you find the right system for your home.

1. Types of sewage pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps that you can install in your home:

• submersible sewage pumpThey are popular because they are quiet and are great at removing unwanted water from basements or crawl spaces.
• Vertical sewage pumpMore cost-effective and smaller than submersible well pumps, but cannot be submerged in water. Pedestal pumps are often used in home replacement applications

2. The material of the submersible pump

Sewage pumps, whether submersible or vertical, must be corrosion and water resistant. Manufacturers usually make sump pumps from one of the following materials:

• cast ironDurable and better heat dissipation.
• thermoplasticAn economical choice for the domestic well pump.
• aluminumEconomical and reliable.

At Zoeller at Home we prioritize the quality of the pump equipment it offersSubmersible and submersible cast iron well pumpsto make sure your home is protected.

3. Sewage pump float switch

The float switch is the switch that tells the sump pump to turn on or off. While both mechanisms can detect water and activate the sump pump, one may be a better fit for your home than the other.

• ONEvertical floatThe switch goes up and down on the bar and fits in the tightest spots. Electromagnetic vertical float switches have no moving parts for longer life.
• ONEmooring floatAs the water level changes and more space is needed, the switch swings in an arc.

4. The horsepower of the sewage pump

The horsepower of a sump pump determines how fast it can move water. An important parameter in determining the correct horsepower for your sump pump is the sump depth of the sump pump. When replacing a residential or domestic sump pump, replace it with one that is equal to or greater in horsepower than the existing unit. When in doubt, it is recommended to choose a higher horsepower.

5. Backup battery for well pump

The purpose of a sump pump is to pump water out of a basement or crawl space, especially during a flood. When a strong storm hits, your power can be lost. If the sump pump only runs on AC power, it may stop working when it is most likely to flood. Choose a well pump with batteries so you can prevent water damage if the need arises. For peace of mind, take a look at our collectionSentinel basement backup sump pumpProtect your home and your valuables by replacing your sump pump.

Where should the sump pump be placed?

A sump pump should be installed in a sump or pit, and you should install it in a basement or crawl space. Install a replacement sump pump where the old pump was installed. You should install a new one on the ground floor of the house, where the most water collects.

Prepare the location where the sump pump will be installed:

• Order and test materials:Before making any changes to your living space, order the sump pump you need. While you can find specifications online, if possible, measure it yourself to make sure it fits your sump. When sizing it, you should also test the sump pump and check valve to make sure everything is working properly. After making sure you have a reliable sump pump and check valve, you can properly make room for this new equipment by installing a solid sump pump pit.
• Find the nearest outlet:Since your sump pump runs on electricity, you'll want to make sure it can use its own ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These power supplies will provide the power you need while preventing electric shock. If you don't have one of these outlets near your vanity, you'll need to have an electrician make one for you. Using an extension cord to connect the sump pump to the nearest outlet can destroy the insulation and make it insufficient to connect the sump pump.
• I dig a hole:If you don't have an existing sump, you'll need to dig a hole in the basement wide enough and deep enough to fit the sump pump. You will want to make sure the top edge of the sump pump is level with the ground. Measure the crankcase radius and mark the circumference of a circle a few centimeters larger than that. Next, dig a hole until you can fit the pump basin inside. If you have a concrete floor, use a hammer to break it up.
• Duct Installation:Install high pressure fittings and PVC pipe to finally control the flow of water out of the pump and out of the house. Use J-hooks to hang the pipes from the joists in the basement. Drill a hole in the outside wall for the pipe and seal the opening with silicone sealant. Attach more PVC pipe to the existing lines to ensure the water flows a few feet away from the house. Split the water flow by attaching extension PVC pipe to the ends.

Tools and materials needed to install a home well pump

In addition to the well pump itself, you will need the following products to complete your well pump installation:

• 3/16" drill bit.
• Plastic or fiberglass sump pump sump
• Sewage pump sump cover
• Wet/Dry vacuum to remove water and debris
• PVC primer and solvent
• Tape measure
• Elastic joint
• Utility knife
• Adjustable pipe wrench
• hacksaw
• zip chain
• screwdriver
• Gloves
• Sewage pump control valve
• cloth or towel
• movable pliers
• PVC pipe

How to install a sump pump yourself

Check it outThe easy way to install a sump pumpSo you can add this unit to your home by yourself. You can also follow our step-by-step sump pump installation guide:

1. Remove the old pump and check valve:Unplug the old pump from the GFCI outlet and remove it from the pit. At this time, the check valve should also be disconnected to let the water flow out. While you can reuse an old check valve, it's best to replace it along with a new sump pump.
2. Check the sump pump pit:Check the container and make sure there is a firm, level bottom to place the new pump on. It should be free of water and debris, but if you see anything blocking it, use a wet/dry container and remove the excess material.
3. Prepare the new pump:Carefully remove the new pump and control valve from the box and set aside. Make sure you have your registration information and user manual to help you through this process.
4. Connect the PVC discharge tubing to the fitting:Use a rag to remove any water or debris from the existing PVC drain piping. Apply PVC primer and adhesive liberally to the inside of the PVC threaded fitting and place the fitting firmly into the discharge pipe for a tight fit.
5. Calculate the length of the pipe:Measure the length of tubing required from the pump discharge to the fitting. Subtract the check valve size from the pipe size to determine how much pipe to cut.
6. Cut and clean the pipe:Using a hacksaw, cut the PVC pipe in half. Smooth rough, uneven surfaces around the inner edge with a knife. Attach the fitting that fits your pipe size by wrapping the threads in plumber's tape.
7. Connect the tubing to the check valve:Use a screwdriver to loosen each non-return valve clamp and fit the tube tightly into the non-return valve rubber sleeve. You may need to use a little force to make sure they are tight and tighten the clips with a screwdriver.
8. Create drainage holes:Weep holes prevent the pump from blocking when air in the pipes prevents water from flowing. To create the weep hole, drill a 3/16" hole in the pipe between the pump and the check valve.
9. Install the water pump:Screw the threaded pipe into the discharge area of ​​the pump until it is tight. Lower the pump into the pit, making sure it is level and there is room on both sides for the float switch to move freely. Tighten the fitting onto the discharge pipe until it locks.
10. Connect and test the pump:Plug the unit into a GFCI outlet and secure the power cord with a zip tie. Test the pump by partially filling the pit with water. It should automatically turn on and drain the basin. After making sure the sump pump is working properly, place the sump cover over the pit to eliminate odors.
11. Enter the sump pump:After installing the product,Register onlineAt home with Zoller. Registration allows us to contact you about any security changes and confirm ownership if you need a repair or return.

Choose Zoeller home sump pumps to prevent basement flooding

Zoeller at Home offers high-quality sump pumps and accessories for your home's basement or crawl space. Protect your investment with a sump pump that drains water from your living space and prevents water and electrical damage. When your main pump isSump standby pumpFrom Zoeller at home.

I'm looking for oneretailers near youFind where to buy a sump pump near you or browse our selectionsewage pumpandSewage pump accessoriesIn connection. For more information on how to install a sump pump, you cancontact us onlineTalk to a representative via live chat.

Page updated: April 15, 2021