How to Remove Water From the Cellar Floor

Wait until the water level outside the cellar recedes to the point that it’s lower than the water within the cellar before draining if the water is the result of flooding. Draining beforehand can cause the walls to collapse inwards due to outside pressure. Cut all electricity to the cellar from the circuit box.

Rent a gasoline-powered sump pump from a home improvement store or equipment rental shop to drain the majority of the cellar.

Place the sump pump below the water level in the cellar onto the floor if it’s of the underwater design; otherwise place the pump onto a surface above the water that’s strong and sturdy enough to hold the unit while in the process of pumping.

Run the outtake hose from the sump pump outside the cellar window and at least 20 feet away from the structure. Place the end of the hose onto a slope running away from yours or any other nearby structures to avoid the water running back into the cellar. Run the exhaust vent from the pump outside the window as well to exhaust the fumes created by the gasoline engine.

Place the intake hose into the water, touching the cellar floor if the sump pump is one that needs placement above the water.

Open all windows and doors leading to the cellar to increase the ventilation within. Open the gas tank, and fill the pump with gasoline. Start the sump pump by following the starter directions provided by the manufacturer.

Run the pump until you rid the cellar of as much freestanding water as possible. Move the intake hose when necessary to reach stands of water not drawn out by the initial hose location. Stop the pump when you’ve finished with water removal.

Remove any mud from the cellar floor while it's still wet, using a shovel and large bucket or wheelbarrow. Allow the floors and wall to dry.

Clean the floors and walls using a high pressure hose if you have a working drain within your cellar. If not, use a mop with a pH-neutral cleaner to clean the floor, and a sponge for the walls. Use a scrub brush where needed to remove staining. Rinse floors and walls with clean water and then allow the cellar to dry out again.