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Test the New Switch — Finalize and Secure

Beginner6 hours

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How to Replace a Submersible Sump Pump · Step 7 of 7

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To ensure the new switch is working correctly, perform a test outside of the sump pit. Plug the float switch cord into the wall outlet. Then, plug the sump pump's power cord into the piggyback plug on the float switch's cord. Hold the switch assembly and manually lift the float to the top of its guide rod. This should activate the pump, causing it to run. Lower the float to the bottom of the rod; the pump should shut off. This confirms the switch is functioning as intended before you install it.

Goal: Verify the new float switch operates the pump correctly

  • The pump may start abruptly when the float is lifted. Keep hands and loose clothing away from the pump's intake.
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FAQs

What is the single most critical safety precaution I must take before starting to replace my submersible sump pump?

Always disconnect power to the sump pump circuit by unplugging it or turning off the dedicated breaker at your electrical panel. This prevents accidental electrocution, especially since you'll be working with an electrical appliance in a potentially wet environment. Confirm the power is off using a voltage tester if you're unsure.

The project is listed as 'beginner' and 6 hours. Can I really complete this if I'm new to DIY, and what factors might make it take longer?

Yes, a beginner can successfully replace a sump pump, but taking your time is key. Factors like rusted or seized discharge pipe connections, a very dirty sump pit requiring extensive cleaning, or unexpected plumbing modifications can extend the project beyond 6 hours. Having all your tools and materials ready beforehand will help streamline the process.

Besides the listed tools, are there any other specialized items or tools that would make replacing the sump pump easier or more efficient?

While the listed tools cover the basics, a shop vacuum can be incredibly useful for thoroughly cleaning out a dirty sump pit before installing the new pump. Additionally, a hacksaw or reciprocating saw might be more effective than a PVC cutter if you encounter old, rigid, or difficult-to-reach piping that needs to be cut.

How do I ensure I select the correct replacement submersible sump pump for my existing pit and discharge system?

Before purchasing, measure your old pump's dimensions (height, width), horsepower (HP), and discharge pipe diameter (commonly 1.25" or 1.5"). Also, note the type of float switch (tethered or vertical). Matching these specifications will ensure your new pump fits properly in the sump basin and connects easily to your existing plumbing.

Transcript
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the pump runs good and then when you like when it drops down it goes down so i would have liked a little bit more travel actually i'm wrong with that so this will travel up and push up all right and then it drops down and the weight of it brings it down so you have that much travel and water play here to allow for that pump to run so again this is not attached to the bottom so this will float up hit the top of the rod activate it which it did and then as the water goes down it won't deactivate to hit the bottom of that so now what we need to do is take our steel hose clamp i'll have to grab some tools this will go mount through these holes here to attach to the pipe that actually goes down into the pump the hole itself and then you have to kind of line it up to where uh you want it to land obviously you don't want it to go too far down you don't want it to where this is going to sit here the pump will never shut off you want to make sure it can go all the way down to pull that rod down but you also don't want it to sit too high to where you know the the uh the area that needs to be pumped out it overflows so i don't think you should have problem with that as long as you get it somewhere in the hole here we should be okay and we'll just drive with that so let's go ahead i'm gonna grab a couple tools probably all i need is a straight uh straight head screwdriver and we'll get this disconnected to put that in here attach it to our pipe and then we'll have to secure this wire and we should be good to go

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