1. Pour water into your sump pump’s pit. That will kick-start your sump pump to ensure proper operation when water rises within the sump pit. Here’s what you do: slowly pour about five gallons ...

A more manageable approach, in the right circumstances, is to install an isolated sump pit with several feet of gravel around it. To have this system installed may cost between $300 and $500.

we are looking at putting a submerged sump pump into the basement and wonder what type of grate do people use over the top. Obviously it has to have holes big enough to allow the water etc through and ...

It’s centered over the sump pit. On top of the base, there’s a removable lid that bolts on top. It makes it easier to take on and off in case service of the pumps are ever needed.

They cost about $100, but are a worthwhile “insurance policy” against basement flooding. By the way, I recommend a sump pump for ALL finished basements, even if the pit is dry.

Unplug the pump. Most sump pumps have two plugs: one for the motor and a second that controls the float switch. The float switch is a sensor. When it detects rising water, it turns on the pump.

Plumbers say now’s the time to check sump pumps. For a quick test, fill a bucket of water and dump it in the sump pit to make sure the pump turns on and sucks out the water.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — An arbitrator has awarded a settlement to a Rosebank woman who was injured when her leg got stuck in the sump-pump pit in a friend’s basement six years ago. Kathleen ...