What is a sump pump?
A sump pump is an electric pump in a basin below the basement floor that pumps groundwater out of the house before it floods the basement.
Sump pump repair fixes the float switch, the check valve or the motor, and sump pump replacement swaps a failed pump for a new one. A battery backup pump runs the system during a power outage.
What are the 6 signs you need sump pump repair?
The 6 signs you need sump pump repair are listed below, from the most common to the least common.
- The pump runs constantly, even in dry weather.
- The pump does not start when the pit fills with water.
- Loud grinding or rattling comes from the pit.
- The float switch sticks against the side of the basin.
- Water collects on the basement floor after rain.
- The pump is more than 7 years old.
Seeing one of these signs? Call a local plumber now.
Call (607) 305-8020How does a plumber replace a sump pump?
A plumber uses the 5 steps below to replace a sump pump.
- Unplugs the old pump and drains the pit.
- Disconnects the discharge pipe and the check valve.
- Sets the new pump on a level base in the pit.
- Connects the discharge pipe with a new check valve.
- Fills the pit with water to test the float and the discharge.
How much does sump pump replacement cost in Lancaster, PA?
Sump pump replacement in Lancaster, PA costs $645–$2,102, with an average cost of $1,353, according to HomeAdvisor. Sump pump repair costs $300–$700, and a new sump pump installation costs $650–$1,800.
Typical prices for 4 sump pump installation and repair jobs are shown in the table below.
| Job | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Sump pump replacement | $645–$2,102 |
| Average replacement | $1,353 |
| Sump pump repair | $300–$700 |
| New sump pump installation | $650–$1,800 |
Source: HomeAdvisor national cost data, 2025–2026. Ranges are what most homeowners pay; your plumber gives the price for your job before work starts.
Want a price for your job? Call and describe the problem to a local plumber.
Call (607) 305-8020Do you need a plumber to replace a sump pump?
Yes, you need a plumber to replace a sump pump when the discharge line, the check valve or the electrical connection needs work. A plumber sizes the pump to the pit and tests the float before leaving.
What are the 5 parts of a sump pump system?
The 5 parts of a sump pump system are listed below.
- The sump basin is the pit below the basement floor that collects groundwater.
- The pump moves the water up and out of the basin.
- The float switch turns the pump on as the water rises and off as it drops.
- The discharge pipe carries the water outside, away from the foundation.
- The check valve stops pumped water from flowing back into the basin.
What are the 2 types of sump pump backup?
The 2 types of sump pump backup are listed below.
- A battery backup pump runs on a 12-volt battery during a power outage.
- A water-powered backup pump runs on public water pressure and needs no battery or electricity.
Related plumbing problems and next steps
When is a sump pump repair problem an emergency?
A sump pump repair problem is an emergency when water rises on the basement floor during rain. Move stored items, keep away from water near outlets and call for an emergency pump replacement. Emergency calls for sump pump problems go to an emergency plumber in Lancaster County.
What services are related to sump pump installation and repair?
The 4 services related to sump pump installation and repair are listed below.
- Sewage ejector pump signs, steps and prices are on the sewage ejector pump in Lancaster page.
- Well pump repair signs, steps and prices are on the well pump repair in Lancaster page.
- Sump pump running constantly has 5 causes, listed in the sump pump running constantly guide.
- Water in basement who to call has 5 causes, listed in the water in basement who to call guide.
Where else in Lancaster County is sump pump repair available?
Sump pump repair pages for 3 nearby Lancaster County towns are listed below.
- Elizabethtown (ZIP 17022) sump pump repair calls go to Sump Pump Installation and Repair in Elizabethtown.
- Lititz (ZIP 17543) sump pump repair calls go to Sump Pump Installation and Repair in Lititz.
- Ephrata (ZIP 17522) sump pump repair calls go to Sump Pump Installation and Repair in Ephrata.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a sump pump be replaced?
A sump pump needs replacement every 7 to 10 years, and a pump that runs every few minutes wears out sooner.
How much does it cost to replace a sump pump?
It costs $645–$2,102 to replace a sump pump, with an average cost of $1,353, according to HomeAdvisor.
What is the difference between a submersible and a pedestal sump pump?
The difference between a submersible and a pedestal sump pump is the motor position: a submersible pump sits under water in the basin, and a pedestal pump holds the motor on a column above the basin.
Why does a sump pump run constantly?
A sump pump runs constantly because of a stuck float switch, a blocked or frozen discharge line, a failed check valve or a high water table after heavy rain.