What it is
In much of the north metro, the sump pump is the most important piece of equipment in the house. Where the water table rises every spring, the pump may run every few minutes for weeks, and if it stops, water starts coming up within hours.
That workload is why pump quality, size and backup matter more here than in many parts of the metro. A pump that would last a decade in a dry neighborhood may wear out much sooner in Blaine or Ham Lake.
Signs you need it
- The pump runs every few minutes for weeks each spring
- Loud clunks, grinding or a motor that hums without pumping
- Water rising close to the top of the basin
- A pump more than about 7 to 10 years old
- No backup for power outages
How the work is done
Look at the workload
The contractor checks how fast the basin refills, the discharge line, the check valve and the float switch.
Match the pump
Heavy-use homes often need a higher-capacity cast-iron pump, and sometimes a second pump in the same basin.
Plan for outages
Battery backups run on their own power; water-powered backups use city water pressure and need no battery.
Test and label
The setup is tested, and you're shown how to check it each spring.
What it costs
Compare every service in the cost guide. These are rough ranges; the real price comes after an inspection.
Questions
Battery or water-powered backup?
Battery backups work anywhere but need their battery replaced every few years. Water-powered backups need no battery but require city water and use water while they run. Our guide compares them.
How often should I test my pump?
Every spring before melt, and before any big storm forecast. Pour water into the basin and watch it turn on and shut off.
Can I send sump water to the sewer?
Generally no. Twin Cities cities typically prohibit connecting sump pumps to the sanitary sewer, so water should discharge outside, away from the house.
Read more
Related services
- Basement waterproofing: Stop groundwater and seepage before they reach your floor, walls and belongings.
- Interior drain tile: Collect groundwater at the footing and carry it to the sump before it reaches the floor.
- Foundation crack repair: Seal cracks that leak and have structural cracks looked at before they spread.
- Basement dehumidifiers and moisture control: Whole-basement dehumidifiers that keep damp, musty air in check all summer.
Where we serve
We connect homeowners with contractors across Anoka County and north Ramsey County, including Blaine, Spring Lake Park, Coon Rapids, Lexington, Mounds View, Circle Pines, Fridley, Andover. See all service areas.