What Type of Pipe for Sump Pump Discharge?

Last Updated on August 27, 2022 by admin

The sump pump has different synonyms – fire extinguisher, first aid, or security system for your home. It is because it discharges water from the home basement through a discharge pipe. This function saves a home basement from going underwater.

The proper functionality of a sump pump depends a lot on the installed discharge pipe.

Many homeowners look for the answer to a few questions like what type of pipe for sump pump discharge is best-suited for my house. Or, what are the common failures of the sump pump?

We will discuss in this article about the key factors to get the best performance from a sump pump.

Let’s explore.

How can failure happen because of the wrong discharge pipe?

Pumping capacity is one of the most critical factors when selecting the best sump pump for crawl space.

Sump pump’s pumping capacity varies model to model. The measuring unit of the sump pump is a gallon per minute. You can easily make a comparison between 2 pumps learning about their pumping capacity. Sump pump with 50 gallons pumping capacity will definitely remove more water from the home basement than a 30 gallons pumping capacity pump. Isn’t it?

However, it is also essential to know about the other 2 factors; if you fail to pay attention to these factors, your sump pump will lead to faulty performance.

When buying a sump pump, if a customer pays close attention to the sump pump capacity, s/he will learn that the capacity is constructed on a specific “head height” (generally 10’). This height is the vertical distance of a sump pump. And the pump has to push water until it touches the level where it departures the basement.

Sump pumps with a smaller head height will remove more water in every minute from the home basement. In contrast, larger head height sump pumps capacity is moderate.

The most important thing is; sump pumps capacity rating depends on the discharge pipe size.

Most sump pumps come with built-in fittings for discharge pipe of an exact size. Generally, 1.25” or 1.5” is the inside diameter.

The right sump pump discharge pipe will ensure the performance will be as per the manufacturer’s description.

Sump pump capacity and efficiency will get affected if you use a smaller discharge pipe compared to the requirement. As a result, the pump will be unable to remove water at its capacity with the small tube. Moreover, back-pressure will increase, and finally moving water from the basement will become more difficult for the pump.

Furthermore, the sump pump has to operate repeatedly. It is because every discharge sequence will take a longer time than expected because of the depletion of water. The pump will give more time to the basin while giving labor to empty it.

In excessive rain, the sump pump will run for an extended period.

In the end, the motor will wear out soon due to the stress. And you have to replace your sump pump within a short time.

It is recommended to use a large discharge tube. PVC or ABS tubing is an ideal option to be used inside the house.

Sump Pump Discharge Line

What are the Common Mistakes that is Responsible for the Failure of Sump Pump?

Sump pump failure can happen due to many culprits. Below we are discussing the significant reasons.

Not having scheduled maintenance

Many of us show negligence in doing scheduled sump pump maintenance. And this is the main reason for sump pump failure. The great thing is that a person can easily clean a sump pump following a few easy methods. Calling a professional is also unnecessary.

Use the vinegar solution to clean the sump pump. Ensure that the float is not blocked, vents and discharge pipe air holes are entirely unrestricted.

Not taking the necessary step to keep the discharge pipe clean

Ensure tight connection of the sump pump discharge pipe, away from the foundation of your home and should be cleaned of obstructions that may lead to slow drainage. Don’t forget to have a look at the discharge pipe and confirm the necessary repair.

Inspect the outflow of your sump pump. If you experience any back-pressure, take necessary steps to avoid this problem.

Not inspecting the sump pump

Although some sump pump does not require testing often because they are always operated, it would be best if you inspect them twice in a year. Before spring and starting of the fall is the best time to examine the sump pump.

Frequently Asked Question

Question: How do I troubleshoot my sump pump?

Answer: Proper functionality of your sump pump can easily be tested following the below steps.

• Take 6 – 8 gallons of water and pour it slowly into the drum.
• Without losing time, the pump must start working.
• If it doesn’t, be sure that there is a problem in the pump.
• Shut the pump off, and the water needs to be discharged. Repair is mandatory at this point.

Last Words

Hopefully, from the above discussion of what type pipe for sump pump discharge, you have understood the importance of picking the right pipe.

Also, you can’t avoid maintaining regular maintenance of your sump pump. If you forget to do so, you are likely leading yourself to a dangerous situation.

It is advisable to test your sump pump just after the installation to avoid any future problem. Since it is the heart of your home waterproofing system, it is essential to keep your sump pump free from any mechanical problem. And you can do it only by maintaining regular maintenance.