What is the Average Sump Pump Repair & Replacement Cost?

2024 Update: The vast majority of the time, issues with a sump pump cannot be repaired, making it necessary to have your unit replaced. Sump pump replacement costs can vary according to several different factors, including type of pump and experience level of your plumber. On average, you can expect total project costs to be anywhere from $800 to $1,600.

If you have a basement that’s prone to flooding, investing in a good sump pump is practically a must. Additionally, you need to monitor your sump pump to ensure ongoing performance. If your sump pump exhibits signs of failure, you’ll want to call your favorite local plumbers to take a look.

It’s important to note that no plumbing appliance lasts forever. Everyday wear-and-tear will eventually damage your sump pump to the point that it no longer does its job. Because sump pumps cannot be repaired, a failed sump pump will require prompt replacement. 

If you suspect that your sump pump is on its last legs, you likely have some questions about the average cost of replacement. Naturally, there are many components to factor in, including the parts, labor, and more.

If you live in the Indianapolis area and are ready to talk sump pump replacement, we invite you to contact Carter’s My Plumber. We are a trusted name for sump pump repair in Indianapolis, and we’re always happy to provide free estimates and upfront pricing.

In the meantime, here are some general reflections on what you should expect in terms of sump pump installation costs.

What’s the Typical Cost for Replacing a Sump Pump?

There are a number of factors that can affect the cost of the project; we’ll highlight those factors in the next section. But if you want a general price range for installing a new sump pump, we generally tell homeowners in the Indianapolis area that they can expect to pay between $800 and $1,600.

Which Factors Affect the Cost of Sump Pump Replacement?

Consider some of the primary factors that can affect the cost of replacing your sump pump.

Labor Costs

Labor costs can vary by location, and by the skill and experience of your plumber. You can expect an hourly rate, and hopefully your plumbing company will provide you with a full upfront quote, minimizing any sense of surprise once the project starts. Look for a plumbing company that can provide you with a specific price for personalized solutions, taking into account the difficulty of repair, the type of pump you need, and more.

Type of Sump Pump

There are two basic types of sump pumps to choose from:  The pedestal pump and the submersible sump pump. Both can help you avoid flooding and water damage on your basement floor, yet there are also a few important distinctions.

• Pedestal pumps are a little bit easier to install, and they are easier to maintain. They also have less power. So, while they are cheaper, they don’t always offer the best value.
• Submersible pumps are more expensive, largely because they are harder to install. But they also offer a lot of benefits: They take up less space, they make less noise, and they are a lot more powerful.

Your plumber can tell you more about the type of sump pump that’s right for you, and also provide pricing options for both types. Note that combination pumps may also be an option worth discussing with your plumber, providing you with even more robust options for managing water flow.

Additional Features

You can always spring to pay a little bit more money for “premium” models that come with more bells and whistles, such as battery backups to keep your pump functional during power outages. Ask your plumber to provide insight into different models. As a rule of thumb, you can expect backup batteries to add somewhere between $150 and $300 to the total price point.

Warranty

As you consider the sump pump repair cost, make sure you take warranty into account. A longer warranty will add to your sump pump costs, but it may be worth it for the additional peace of mind you experience.

Choose a Qualified Plumber for Sump Pump Replacement

If your sump pump goes bad, you can anticipate excess water on your basement floor, potentially leading to costly repairs down the road. It’s a worthwhile investment to have your pump replaced sooner rather than later, and to have the work done by a skilled and licensed plumber.

Additional Questions Regarding Sump Pump Replacement

How much does it cost to replace a sump pump?

A replacement sump pump can be from $800 to $1600, depending on the model and the warranty you choose, among other factors.

Can a sump pump be repaired?

No, sump pumps cannot be repaired. Sump pump repair services are really just sump pump installation services.

How many years should a sump pump last?

The lifespan of a sump pump can vary, but it’s customary to get three to five years of consistent functionality.

How do you fix a sump pump failure?

If your sump pump isn’t working, the only thing to be done about it is to hire an experienced plumber to replace the pump.

Are sump pumps expensive?

Pumps are not very expensive, but backup systems to a sump pump can run a lot more. Having said that, they can also spare you from expensive water damage, making it worthwhile to ask your licensed plumber about installing a backup unit.

Who is best to fix a sump pump?

We recommend professional sump pump installation from a licensed plumber. If you’re in Indianapolis and have questions about average prices for sump pump installation, call Carter’s My Plumber.

What causes sump pump failure?

A number of factors can contribute to sump pump failure, including electrical issues or problems with the sump pump motor. The vast majority of the time, though, it just boils down to wear and tear.

Is a sump pump easy to replace?

It’s not terribly hard to replace a basement sump pump, but we still recommend professional installation. Not only does it ensure correct installation, allowing you to avoid common sump pump problems, but it also allows you to get expert advice about battery-powered pumps, backup sump pumps, etc. Working with an experienced sump pump installer is always advantageous.

How do I know if my sump pump needs to be replaced?

If it has power to it but isn’t working it needs to be replaced.

How many hours does it take to replace a sump pump?

The typical time frame from this project is an hour and a half.

Do sump pumps need maintenance?

There is really no way to perform active maintenance on a sump pump. Again, sump pump issues usually call for replacement, or for the addition of backup sump pumps. With that said, annual inspections, complete with a comprehensive report, can help you determine the status of your sump pump, and maybe help you identify factors of impending pump failure.

What are the key factors that determine the actual project costs for sump pump replacement?

Actual project costs may be determined by several factors, including the type of pump, the nature of your warranty, and more. Pumps with battery backups can also be more expensive. The expertise of your plumber is another major cost factor.

How often should I have my sump pump inspected?

Most plumbers will tell you to have your unit inspected once on an annual basis, perhaps as part of a broader home plumbing inspection. Ask your plumber about inspection and report costs.

What causes sump pump failure?

There are a number of factors that can cause premature sump pump failure, including overheating or a particularly rainy season, leading to a ton of water buildup. But really, it all just comes down to routine use and everyday wear and tear.

How can I extend the lifespan of my sump pump?

Beyond keeping the discharge valve clean and clear, there’s really not much you need to do in terms of sump pump upkeep.

What are some of the signs of impending sump pump failure?

Unfamiliar noises or minor flooding can both indicate that your unit is on its last legs, and that you need to have it replaced as soon as possible.