When to install a sump pump in the basement?

A sump pump is essential in basements prone to water infiltration in Quebec.

When to install:

• Basement below the water table level
• History of infiltration after rain or snowmelt
• House with a French drain that leads to a sump pit
• High rainfall area or clay soil (poor percolation)

Types of pumps:

• Submersible pump: Installed at the bottom of the pit, quiet, powerful. Capacity: 1/3 HP to 1 HP, flow: 2,000 to 5,000 GPH. Cost: $150 to $400
• Pedestal pump: Motor above the pit, louder, cheaper ($100 to $200)

Installation:

• The pit must be at least 450 mm (18 in) deep and 300 mm (12 in) in diameter
• Discharge pipe: 1 ½ in to the outside, at least 3 meters from the foundation
• A check valve is mandatory on the discharge pipe
• Install a backup battery (12 V) — power outages often happen during storms. Battery cost: $100 to $250