How much does it cost to repair a sump pump?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

A sump pump is an essential element in many homes, preventing flooding during heavy rainfall or when the water table is high. They do not require much maintenance and can be used for years to protect your home from flooding. However, issues can arise with your sump pump, including clogs in the pipes, broken components, and damaged impellers.

The national cost average for sump pump repairs is $150 to $500, with most homeowners paying around $300 to fix a leaking sump pump. Prices can be higher or lower, depending on the problem and amount of work required to fix it. This project’s low cost is $75 to fix a faulty float switch. The high cost is $600 to replace a large amount of discharge piping.

Cost to Repair Sump Pump

Cost to Repair a Sump Pump by Type

Sump pumps come in two types: submersible and pedestal. The type you have directly impacts the cost of your repairs because each has unique features and characteristics. Different problems can occur with each type, and the costs vary accordingly.

Pedestal Sump Pump Repair

The average cost of pedestal sump pump repairs is between $150 and $500. They have the motor at the top, where it stays dry, with the drawtube at the base of the sump pit. These types are less expensive to install and maintain, and there is less risk of motor issues. However, problems can still occur with these pumps, such as impeller faults and valve issues.

Submersible Sump Pump Repair

Homeowners pay between $175 and $550 for submersible sump pump repairs. They are designed to be submerged in water and sit right at the base of the sump pit. They are more expensive to purchase and repair because these pumps are usually complex and involve extra labor. Common problems include motor issues, float problems, and broken impellers.

Cost to Repair a Sump Pump by Location

Location is another factor impacting the cost of sump pump repairs. Pumps can be placed in various spaces around the home, such as crawl spaces, basements, and outdoor areas. Some areas are easily accessible, while others require more work to get to, leading to higher labor costs.

Basement

The average cost of basement sump pump repair is between $150 and $550. The basement is the most common location for nstallation. This is because the basement is the lowest point in the house, ideal for collecting water building in the sump basin and removing it. Repair workers are used to working in basements and should charge standard fees for working with this pump.

Garage

To repair a sump pump in a garage, expect to pay between $150 and $550 to have it fixed. Just like the basement, the garage is another common location to install them. The costs are generally identical to basement pump repairs because garages are easy to access and do not pose unique challenges.

Bedroom

If you have a sump pump in the bedroom, repairs range from $175 to $575. The bedroom is not common for installation, but you can have pumps in bedrooms, typically in a closet space. You may want to install one in your bedroom if it is on the ground floor or the basement due to the risk of flooding. Accessing these pumps can be a little harder because they are in the closet, leading to slightly higher repair costs.

Crawl Space

Repairs for crawl space sump pumps average $200 to $600. Crawl spaces are common locations for installation, but the costs of repairing these are often higher because access can be restricted. This makes it harder for workers to do the repairs, leading to higher labor costs.

Outdoor

Homeowners pay between $200 and $600 for outdoor sump pump repairs. These pumps require special landscaping and usually must be installed in their own trenches under the surface. This means accessing outdoor units can be difficult. More problems can occur with them because they are exposed to the elements. Issues like freezing and rust are common.

Cost to Repair a Sump Pump by Type of Repair

Sump pumps have a range of components, including the motor, impeller, and discharge pipe. Issues can arise with each major component of your unit, and some repairs are much simpler and cheaper to complete than others. The table below shows common repairs and the average prices for each.

Sump Pump Float Switch Repair

Expect to pay between $75 and $125 to fix a sump pump float switch. The float switch is the part that controls the pump’s function. The float rises as the water level rises, and at a certain height, the switch opens a circuit that starts the pump. Switches can fall out of position and may require repositioning.

Sump Pump Impeller Repair

Homeowners pay between $100 and $225 for sump pump impeller repairs. The impeller pushes the water out of the sump pit. It performs a lot of work and can be exposed to tough conditions, meaning the impeller may break or become stuck or dirty. This component may require cleaning, readjustment, or patching to repair minor damages.

Sump Pump Discharge Pipe Repair

The average cost of sump pump discharge pipe repair is between $125 and $300. The discharge pipe transports water from the sump basin and out of the home. Like other pieces of piping, it can become damaged with cracks or holes. It may also become clogged. Plumbers may need to patch superficial damages or flush the pipe to remove the blockages.

Sump Pump Motor Repair

To repair a sump pump motor, expect to pay between $150 and $300. The motor is the workhorse of the unit, providing the power the system needs to drain water via the discharge pipe. Several issues can arise with motors, but some simple readjustments and rewiring can solve minor issues.

Cost to Fix a Sump Pump by Type of Replacement

In some cases, the parts of your unit may be damaged or broken beyond repair and must be replaced with new components. The price of replacements depends on the parts because some are small and cheap to replace while others are more expensive. The table below shows examples of different replacement parts for sump pumps and the costs of each.

Sump Pump Float Switch Replacement

The average cost of sump pump float switch replacements is between $100 and $150. If it is not draining correctly and water is building in the pit, the float switch may be broken and must be replaced. Luckily, this is a simple and affordable job because replacement switches are inexpensive and easy to install.

Sump Pump Valve Replacement

Sump pump valve replacements range from $125 to $200. The check valve controls the flow of water and prevents the pump from re-pumping water that has already been discharged. Valves can be damaged and may need to be replaced if water flows back into the pit after being discharged.

Sump Pump Impeller Replacement

The cost of sump pump impeller replacements averages $125 to $250. The impeller is a vital part of the system, and if yours is broken, you need to replace it as soon as possible. New impellers are relatively cheap, but it can take time to install them, so most costs are for labor.

Replace a Sump Pump Discharge Pipe

The cost of replacing a sump pump discharge pipe is between $175 and $600. The total price of the replacement depends on how much piping must be replaced. Some units have short discharge pipes, but others have longer sections of piping. It mostly depends on the location. Longer pipes cost more and take longer to install.

Sump Pump Battery Replacement

Homeowners pay between $250 and $500 for sump pump battery replacements. Batteries are not always necessary, but it can be a good idea to have a battery as a backup power source for your pump if a storm knocks out the power. The price depends on the battery size and type, with higher-powered batteries costing more.

Sump Pump Motor Replacement

To replace a sump pump motor, expect to pay between $250 and $500. The motor is usually the most expensive component, so it can be an expensive part to fix. You may need a new motor if the existing one burns out or is seriously damaged and no longer works.

Cost to Fix a Sump Pump by Problem

Many problems can arise with your unit. It might make a strange noise, spring a leak, or emit an unpleasant smell. The cost of repairs varies depending on the problem. The table below shows examples of problems and average repair costs for each.

Stuck Sump Pump Float

Homeowners pay between $100 and $175 for sump pumps with the float stuck. If the float is stuck on, there are a few possible issues. The float may have become rusted or damaged or the switch may not be working correctly. There might also be dirt or debris interfering with the system, so it may need cleaning or the float might need replacing.

Sump Pump Making a Loud Humming Noise

Fixing a sump pump that is making a loud humming noise averages between $100 and $250. They emit a humming noise naturally as they run, but you may have an issue with the check valve or a clog if the humming is unusually loud. The valve might need to be checked or replaced, the clog may need to be cleared, and the impeller might also need to be cleaned.

Sump Pump Not Pumping

If your unit is not pumping, expect to pay between $100 and $250 for repairs. Your pump may not be pumping for a few reasons. It could be caused by a clog or issue with the impeller. The pipe may need flushing, or the impeller might need cleaning, readjusting, or replacing.

Sump Pump Smells Like Rotten Eggs

Sump pumps that smell of rotten eggs cost from $100 to $250 to repair. It is very unpleasant when a unit starts to smell, and it usually happens because the pit dried up and sulfur smells are rising from the sewer. Usually, the pipes may need cleaning, and water may need to be added to the pit to deal with this issue.

Mold

If you have mold in your sump pump pit, expect to pay between $125 and $250 to have it removed. Mold can build up in the sump pit if it is not maintained properly and cleaned regularly. This can be unsightly and unpleasant, and the mold spreads if left untreated, so you need to bring in professionals to remove it.

Clogged Sump Pump

If your unit is clogged, repair costs range from $150 to $300. Theycan clog in several ways. Clogs can build in the pit, pipes, float switch, or other parts. Certain parts may need repair or replacement, and clogs must be flushed.

Rusted Sump Pump

The average cost of repairing a rusted unit is between $150 and $450. Since they are constantly exposed to water, rust can occur. If rust is spotted early, it could be scrubbed away. However, the affected parts may need to be replaced if the rust is deeper and more extensive.

Leaks

Leaking sump pump repairs range from $150 to $500. There are a few possible explanations behind a leak. A clogged or leaky pipe could be causing the issue or caused by cracks or loose parts in the system. Usually, a plumber must inspect the pump, find the leak source, and take action like tightening valves or patching the damaged pipe.

Sump Pump Running Constantly After Heavy Rain

If your unit is constantly running after a period of heavy rain, expect to pay between $150 and $500 for repairs. They normally run during periods of heavy rain, so there might not be anything to worry about or any problem to fix. However, there could be an issue with the check valve or motor if the pump continues running, which might need to be repaired or replaced.

Frozen Sump Pump

Frozen sump pump repairs average $200 to $400. It is usually only outdoor units that freeze. But this can also happen in those located in basements, and it can be a very serious problem to deal with. The pump must be defrosted as soon as possible, and the lines need to thaw. Debris and blockages must be removed to free the system and get it running again.

Labor Costs to Repair a Sump Pump

You need a plumber or sump pump repair specialist to fix your unit. Labor costs usually run between $50 and $100 per hour. Costs vary based on the location and worker experience. Some plumbers have set fees for certain repairs, while others charge by the hour. You need to pay extra for emergency repairs and travel if you live in a remote location. You may also need to pay a minimum fee or call-out fee of $50 to $75.

Emergency Sump Pump Repair Price

If you need your sump pump repaired urgently, you typically pay an extra $100 to $200 on top of the usual repair price. This is because plumbers and repair companies may have to adjust their schedules and delay other appointments to rush to your home and deal with the emergency. Emergency repairs may be needed in serious situations like when the pump is broken and water is collecting in your basement or another part of your home.

Sump Pump Inspection Cost

Sump pump inspections cost between $50 and $100. During an inspection, a sump pump specialist or plumber inspects your unit for damages, looking for things like cracks and clogs. They also check key components of the pump to ensure everything is working correctly. They provide a full report of their findings and recommendations for repairs or sump pump servicing you may require. It is best to get inspections once a year or after heavy rains and storms.

Sump Pump Maintenance Cost

The average cost of professional sump pump maintenance is between $100 and $300. You can also do maintenance yourself to save money. Professional maintenance fees usually cover cleaning the unit, cleaning loose debris, checking the valve, and removing standing water in the sump pit.

If you prefer to do maintenance yourself, you can do several tasks to keep your pump in good condition. Clean the pit, removing debris and loose items. It is also a good idea to test the check valve by pouring water into the pit and checking that the pump responds. The impeller may need to be cleaned. It is also wise to check the float by pouring water into the pit and seeing if it rises.

Repair vs Replace a Sump Pump

In some cases, you may hesitate between having your unit repaired or replaced. Usually, the first thing to think about when making this decision is the cost. It typically costs between $700 and $1,600 to replace a sump pump, including the new pump and labor. This process can take a few hours but is simple. So if the estimated cost of your repairs is higher than the cost of a new pump or you have repeatedly paid for repairs, it may be a good idea to purchase a new one.

Also think about the age. Sump pumps last from 5 to 30 years. Submersible models are less long-lasting, with estimated lifespans of around 5 to 15 years. Pedestal pumps can run for around 15 to 30 years. If your pump is old and approaching the end of its lifespan, it may make sense to purchase a new one to save money and avoid problems.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Sump Pump Removal

Sump pump removal should cost around $100 to $200. This fee should cover uninstalling the pump and disposing of it. You may want to have a sump pump removed if you are planning on installing a new one in the same location later or want to install a new unit in a different location.

Clean a Sump Pump

The cost of professional sump pump cleaning is between $100 and $200. This fee usually includes a range of cleaning processes, including cleaning the valve, getting rid of standing water in the pit, and cleaning loose dirt and debris from around the pump. It is a good idea to professionally clean your pump annually, or you can save money by cleaning it yourself.

Freeze Protection

The cost of sump pump freeze protection ranges from $125 to $250. It can be important to have freeze protection fitted to sump pumps at risk of freezing in areas like crawl spaces and backyards. Different freeze-protection accessories, such as overflow devices and drains, can fit to the pump to allow water to escape even if ice or snow builds up and blocks the main line. Insulation may also be installed around the line to reduce freezing.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Insurance. You can have your unit insured, and some homeowner’s policies include sump pump coverage as standard, but others do not. Read the fine print and be aware of what your policy covers. You could customize your existing policy to add sump pump protection.
• Permit. You do not usually need a permit for minor repairs and maintenance like fixing impellers and cleaning the unit. However, for more extensive jobs that involve alterations to the pipes, a permit may be needed. Consult with your local building authority for more information.
• High bills. Sudden and unexpected rises in utility costs can often be a sign of problems. If you notice your utility bills are suddenly high, it may be a sign the sump pump has sprung a leak and must be repaired.
• Lifespan. The lifespan depends on its type, location, and amount of maintenance. Pumps last from 5 to 30 years, with submersible pumps lasting around 5 to 15 years and pedestal pumps lasting 15 to 30 years.
• DIY. You can do minor repairs and maintenance on your unit if you know what you are doing. Big issues like fixing broken motors and replacing components should always be left to the professionals.
• Troubleshooting. There is a simple test you can do to troubleshoot your unit . Pour water into the pit and check that the float rises to ensure it is working. You should also check that the pump triggers and starts working to ensure the check valve is functioning.