What it is
When a low area has no outlet lower than it, water cannot drain by gravity. A sump basin collects water from drains or catch basins, and a pump lifts it through a discharge pipe to a place where it can flow away.
Outdoor drainage pumps are common in flat lots, sunken patios and areas behind retaining walls. They need power, a check valve and a planned discharge point.
When it is a good fit
- Low yards with no downhill outlet
- Sunken patios, stairwells and courtyards
- Leveed or very flat sites where gravity outlets are limited
When something else may work better
- Sites that can drain by gravity, which avoids pump maintenance
- Locations without safe access to power
How it is usually installed
- Confirm there is no workable gravity outlet
- Size the basin and pump for the area draining to it
- Install the basin, inlet pipes, pump, check valve and discharge line
- Provide power that meets electrical code, ideally a dedicated circuit
- Test the float and discharge
Every property is different. A drainage professional confirms the design onsite. Call 811 before any digging.
What a drainage professional checks first
- Volume of water and how often it collects
- Discharge location and local rules
- Electrical requirements and GFCI protection
- Alarm or backup options
Maintenance
- Test the pump before storm season
- Clean the basin and intake screen
- Check the float, check valve and discharge outlet
What affects the cost
Pricing pending verification
Drainage.net does not publish prices until they have been checked against sourced data. See what drives the cost of sump basins and drainage pumps, or request an onsite evaluation for a real quote.
Problems this can help with
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a pump for yard drainage?
Only when there is no outlet lower than the problem area. Most yards can drain by gravity with the right pipe route.
What happens if the power goes out?
The pump stops. Ask about an alarm or a battery backup if the area floods quickly.
This page is educational and does not replace an onsite evaluation. Conditions, codes and HOA rules vary by property.