How to Hook Up a Water-Based Sump Pump

Check your water pressure before installing a water-based sump pump. These pumps typically require between 40 lbs. of pressure per square inch and 100 psi of pressure in order to function properly. Check your water flow rate. Water-based sump pumps may require flow rate of between 7 and 15 gallons per minute to operate efficiently.

Wrap each threaded end of the male reducer nipple with thread-sealing tape. Match the larger end of the nipple to the large opening in the ejector and twist until the nipple is firmly seated.

Position the ejector mounting clamp against a ceiling joist directly above the sump pit. Attach the mounting clamp to the joist with wood screws. Snap the ejector into the mounting clamp.

Wrap the thread of the check valve with thread-sealing tape. Match the female adapter to the check valve and twist until it is firmly seated. Cut a length of PVC pipe long enough to reach from the check-valve adapter to within approximately 6 inches of the bottom of the sump pit. Apply PVC primer and cement to one end of the pipe and insert it into the suction screen. Apply primer and cement to the other end of the pipe. Position the suction-screen end of the pipe into the sump pit and insert the other end into the female adapter on the check valve.

Fit the steel pipe clamp around the suction pipe. Slide the float assembly mounting bracket between the clamp and the suction pipe. Slide the clamp up or down as needed to position the float to hang slightly above the high water mark for the main sump pump. Tighten the pipe clamp in place.

Cut a hole in the exterior wall of your home using a hole saw. The hole should be in line with the ejector. Thread the discharge hose through the hole. Attach the female end of the discharge hose to the ejector and tighten until it is secure. Apply cement to the other end of the discharge hose. Insert the discharge hose into the discharge relief tee fitting. Position the discharge relief Tee fitting so that the open end is facing down toward the ground outside the home.

Insert one end of the flexible transfer tube into the push connector on the top of the float assembly. Insert the other end of the transfer tube to the push connector on the small tee located on top of the ejector. Attach the transfer tube to the suction pipe with cable ties. Ensure that the cable ties are not so tight that they pinch the transfer tube.

Turn off the water supply to the home. Locate the cold water line nearest the ejector. Cut the line and insert a tee fitting in accordance with local building codes. Install a gate value coming out of the tee fitting. Close the gate valve and then turn the water supply back on. Connect the gate value to the ejector using a female adapter or union fitting. Open the gate valve and check your system for leaks.