My basement sump pump gave out right before the big storm last week

It was the original pump from when the house was built, so about 15 years old. I heard a weird grinding noise on Tuesday night, and by Wednesday morning there was a puddle. I had to run to the store and grab a new Zoeller M53, which set me back about $230. The install wasn't too bad, but cutting the old PVC discharge pipe was a pain. Has anyone had better luck with a different brand for a really wet area?

3 comments

3 Comments

sanchez.pat6d ago

So you had to cut the old PVC pipe, was it glued into a check valve or just a straight shot to the outside? I've had that fight before where everything is cemented together and you need three hands just to hold the pipe still. Did you go with the same size discharge line or switch it up with the new pump?

susan_bell6d ago

Fifteen years is a great run for any pump, so the original one did its job. Zoeller pumps are actually pretty solid for heavy duty spots like yours. That grinding noise was a clear sign it was just worn out from age.

patriciah516d ago

Totally agree! Fifteen years is no joke for a sump pump. Mine made that same awful grinding sound right before it quit. Had to scramble with buckets. @sanchez.pat knows the struggle, cutting that old glued pipe is a nightmare job. Zoeller is definitely the way to go for a replacement, they just last.