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Find Sump pump or interior foundation drains installers in Sierra Madre

Avatar for California Drains Incorporated

California Drains Incorporated

1424 7th Street
5.00(
6
)
•Approved Pro

California Drains Incorporated

1424 7th Street
5.00(
6
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
122 local quotes requested
11 years of experience

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet every consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent customer service from start to completion of a project. To understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a personal and professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"This company is the best. They were upfront on the cost of the repairs and did a fantastic job. They will aways be our first choice for any future plumbing projects. Thank you, California Drains!"

Nikolai W on February 2025

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet every consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent customer service from start to completion of a project. To understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a personal and professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"This company is the best. They were upfront on the cost of the repairs and did a fantastic job. They will aways be our first choice for any future plumbing projects. Thank you, California Drains!"

Nikolai W on February 2025

Avatar for Better Together Builders

Better Together Builders

7026 Rhea Ave
4.87(
135
)
•Approved Pro

Better Together Builders

7026 Rhea Ave
4.87(
135
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
1693 local quotes requested

We are a full design build firm, specializing in kitchen, bathroom, and complete home remodeling. This also includes additions and ADU's! In the process of creating your dream home, our goal is to provide you with the most up-to-date ideas and solutions. A "one stop shop" for all your remodeling needs. Our team builds and remodels homes with various styles such as: traditional, Spanish, modern, contemporary and beyond. Call us today to get your in-home FREE consultation! Hand in Hand we will make this experience unique and successful. So let's make it Better together! Better Together Builders Lic#1047689 818-858-9840 Info@bettertogetherbuilders.com **Please note: Due to high demand, we are no longer able to do projects that are under a budget of $7000.**

"I hired Better Together Builders for a major home renovation and have paid over $130K toward the project. While some work was completed, my overall experience has been disappointing due to delays, unfinished tasks, and a lack of attention to detail. I am currently pursuing legal action against this company for their failure to fulfill contractual obligations and for the damages caused. Specific examples from my project: • Electrical work was left incomplete, requiring me to hire a licensed electrician at my own expense to finish it. • Several areas were installed without proper preparation, resulting in chipped slabs, misaligned cuts, unpatched drywall holes, and exposed wiring. • Communication and follow-up became inconsistent, and I often had to chase updates to keep the project moving. • Extended delays caused me to lose months of potential rental income, while I also had to pay for temporary housing. This review reflects my personal experience and is not intended to cause harm, but to inform others. If you decide to work with BTB, I strongly recommend documenting every stage of the project, inspecting work before releasing payments, and ensuring all contracted items are fully completed before signing off."

Jose L on August 2025

We are a full design build firm, specializing in kitchen, bathroom, and complete home remodeling. This also includes additions and ADU's! In the process of creating your dream home, our goal is to provide you with the most up-to-date ideas and solutions. A "one stop shop" for all your remodeling needs. Our team builds and remodels homes with various styles such as: traditional, Spanish, modern, contemporary and beyond. Call us today to get your in-home FREE consultation! Hand in Hand we will make this experience unique and successful. So let's make it Better together! Better Together Builders Lic#1047689 818-858-9840 Info@bettertogetherbuilders.com **Please note: Due to high demand, we are no longer able to do projects that are under a budget of $7000.**

"I hired Better Together Builders for a major home renovation and have paid over $130K toward the project. While some work was completed, my overall experience has been disappointing due to delays, unfinished tasks, and a lack of attention to detail. I am currently pursuing legal action against this company for their failure to fulfill contractual obligations and for the damages caused. Specific examples from my project: • Electrical work was left incomplete, requiring me to hire a licensed electrician at my own expense to finish it. • Several areas were installed without proper preparation, resulting in chipped slabs, misaligned cuts, unpatched drywall holes, and exposed wiring. • Communication and follow-up became inconsistent, and I often had to chase updates to keep the project moving. • Extended delays caused me to lose months of potential rental income, while I also had to pay for temporary housing. This review reflects my personal experience and is not intended to cause harm, but to inform others. If you decide to work with BTB, I strongly recommend documenting every stage of the project, inspecting work before releasing payments, and ensuring all contracted items are fully completed before signing off."

Jose L on August 2025

Avatar for Western Rooter & Plumbing

Western Rooter & Plumbing

136 E Santa Clara St
4.81(
157
)
•Approved Pro

Western Rooter & Plumbing

136 E Santa Clara St
4.81(
157
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 93% of Angi customers
Recommended by 93% of HomeAdvisor customers
800 local quotes requested

Call NOW: (626) 889-7990! Available 24/7 for all your plumbing needs! At the heart of our services is a commitment to comprehensive plumbing solutions - from water, sewer, to gas lines, we handle it all. Our expertise spans routine maintenance to urgent emergency repairs, ensuring your plumbing is always in top condition. Drain cleaning? We're on it with both traditional and hydro jetting techniques. But that's just the start. We offer water heater services, including both classic and cutting-edge tankless installations, repairs, and maintenance, ensuring your hot water flow is uninterrupted. Our approach to clean, safe water extends to installing water treatment systems, including softeners and filtration, for pure, drinkable water right from your tap. We're also proactive about the health of your plumbing and sewer lines, offering detailed inspections with our sewer scope technology. Many maintenance services come with complimentary camera inspections to extend your system's lifespan and pinpoint any issues early on. Gas lines and safety valves, especially emergency earthquake shutoffs, are within our expertise, along with certified under street repairs. And for those with septic systems, we provide thorough septic pumping services. No matter the challenge - water, sewer, or gas lines - we're fully equipped to tackle it. Plus, we're thrilled to extend our free travel zone, now covering the Victorville area, bringing our reliable services closer to you!

"Ryan was perfectly on-time and was a plumbing scholar and a gentleman. We had a simple drain replacement under a new sink. Going to Western saved me at least another day of trying to figure out proper parts and doing the install myself, and it also saved my wife's ears from hearing my salty language."

Gary v on September 2024

Call NOW: (626) 889-7990! Available 24/7 for all your plumbing needs! At the heart of our services is a commitment to comprehensive plumbing solutions - from water, sewer, to gas lines, we handle it all. Our expertise spans routine maintenance to urgent emergency repairs, ensuring your plumbing is always in top condition. Drain cleaning? We're on it with both traditional and hydro jetting techniques. But that's just the start. We offer water heater services, including both classic and cutting-edge tankless installations, repairs, and maintenance, ensuring your hot water flow is uninterrupted. Our approach to clean, safe water extends to installing water treatment systems, including softeners and filtration, for pure, drinkable water right from your tap. We're also proactive about the health of your plumbing and sewer lines, offering detailed inspections with our sewer scope technology. Many maintenance services come with complimentary camera inspections to extend your system's lifespan and pinpoint any issues early on. Gas lines and safety valves, especially emergency earthquake shutoffs, are within our expertise, along with certified under street repairs. And for those with septic systems, we provide thorough septic pumping services. No matter the challenge - water, sewer, or gas lines - we're fully equipped to tackle it. Plus, we're thrilled to extend our free travel zone, now covering the Victorville area, bringing our reliable services closer to you!

"Ryan was perfectly on-time and was a plumbing scholar and a gentleman. We had a simple drain replacement under a new sink. Going to Western saved me at least another day of trying to figure out proper parts and doing the install myself, and it also saved my wife's ears from hearing my salty language."

Gary v on September 2024

Avatar for Rapid Rescue Rooter & Plumbing

Rapid Rescue Rooter & Plumbing

728 West Laxford Street
5.00(
10
)
•Approved Pro

Rapid Rescue Rooter & Plumbing

728 West Laxford Street
5.00(
10
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
1337 local quotes requested

Here at Rapid Rescue Rooter & Plumbing we prioritize serving our customers with pride, integrity, and attention to the details that matter most to you. So, why choose Rapid Rescue Rooter? That?s easy!! We have unmatched client service along with 21 years of plumbing and drain service experience. Let us earn your business, you?ll be a client for life. Call now for assistance with any plumbing or drain problems,

"Wesley was extremely responsive. He made all efforts allowing us to continue doing our business at home while he was assessing the problem, assembling his crews, and obtaining a City permit. We were well informed of the progress. His crew did an excellent and clean job, working long hours getting the job done. Including excavated to a depth of 10 feet, patched up our concrete driveway and patched up the AC roadway nicely. Wesley even found time to replace our kitchen faucet and under drain without extra charge. Don’t believe he would be the cheapest initial estimate you would get. We would definitely ask him for all future plumbing needs."

Ferdy C on February 2025

Here at Rapid Rescue Rooter & Plumbing we prioritize serving our customers with pride, integrity, and attention to the details that matter most to you. So, why choose Rapid Rescue Rooter? That?s easy!! We have unmatched client service along with 21 years of plumbing and drain service experience. Let us earn your business, you?ll be a client for life. Call now for assistance with any plumbing or drain problems,

"Wesley was extremely responsive. He made all efforts allowing us to continue doing our business at home while he was assessing the problem, assembling his crews, and obtaining a City permit. We were well informed of the progress. His crew did an excellent and clean job, working long hours getting the job done. Including excavated to a depth of 10 feet, patched up our concrete driveway and patched up the AC roadway nicely. Wesley even found time to replace our kitchen faucet and under drain without extra charge. Don’t believe he would be the cheapest initial estimate you would get. We would definitely ask him for all future plumbing needs."

Ferdy C on February 2025

Avatar for My Construction Group

My Construction Group

2011 O'Toole Ave
4.83(
183
)
•Approved Pro

My Construction Group

2011 O'Toole Ave
4.83(
183
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Terrific value
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
3180 local quotes requested

We Stand Behind Our Work, Quality, Brand and Commitment Located in San Jose, My Construction Group is your one source for construction needs, and quality design. Our experienced team and project managers will listen and help you focus on your goals, create an innovative design or renovate on matching your vision, and take all the worry and stress out of the process for you. Our team of professional contractors and project managers oversee and manage each project efficiently through on-site preparation, on-time scheduling, accurate budgeting and cost management. In addition, our goal is to assure quality building services while maintaining consistent client communication throughout each project. My Construction Group is a leading home remodeling company, interested in making the best and most remarkable construction in California. Please click or copy the link to see our new construction project https://youtu.be/1teqJZQhzBA

"Our experience is identical to what other reviewers shared. And yes, you should run from this company as fast as you can. Do not buy what Abraham shared that the payment must be made when the inspection is passed. Check the Business and Professions code yourself, the payment only needs to be made when the job is completed. It is very COMMON that the job is not even done or poorly performed even the inspection is passed. Here are the issues that multiple families including us run into with this company:: The project was delayed for over 9 months. No one manages the job. He often employs young men from his own Jewish community. They are enthusiastic but had no prior experience. The worse part is that they don't get paid. Two of them even set up a new construction business knowing Abraham will never pay them. Subcontractors can put your house on lien also. Many reviews you see on Yelp, Google, Angi are NOT genuine. Even the references are fake with hindsight, we were given 2 references. One reference shared the exact same accent as the PM. The other reference was initially happy with their work, but then reached out to us and shared a similar horror story with them like what we experienced. You will lose a lot of $$$ on materials as the subcontractors will somehow leave a thousand dollars worth of quartz at home. Maybe they want to compensate for the money Abraham owed them? Let me tell you, reordering materials is not fun."

Jaqueline R on May 2025

We Stand Behind Our Work, Quality, Brand and Commitment Located in San Jose, My Construction Group is your one source for construction needs, and quality design. Our experienced team and project managers will listen and help you focus on your goals, create an innovative design or renovate on matching your vision, and take all the worry and stress out of the process for you. Our team of professional contractors and project managers oversee and manage each project efficiently through on-site preparation, on-time scheduling, accurate budgeting and cost management. In addition, our goal is to assure quality building services while maintaining consistent client communication throughout each project. My Construction Group is a leading home remodeling company, interested in making the best and most remarkable construction in California. Please click or copy the link to see our new construction project https://youtu.be/1teqJZQhzBA

"Our experience is identical to what other reviewers shared. And yes, you should run from this company as fast as you can. Do not buy what Abraham shared that the payment must be made when the inspection is passed. Check the Business and Professions code yourself, the payment only needs to be made when the job is completed. It is very COMMON that the job is not even done or poorly performed even the inspection is passed. Here are the issues that multiple families including us run into with this company:: The project was delayed for over 9 months. No one manages the job. He often employs young men from his own Jewish community. They are enthusiastic but had no prior experience. The worse part is that they don't get paid. Two of them even set up a new construction business knowing Abraham will never pay them. Subcontractors can put your house on lien also. Many reviews you see on Yelp, Google, Angi are NOT genuine. Even the references are fake with hindsight, we were given 2 references. One reference shared the exact same accent as the PM. The other reference was initially happy with their work, but then reached out to us and shared a similar horror story with them like what we experienced. You will lose a lot of $$$ on materials as the subcontractors will somehow leave a thousand dollars worth of quartz at home. Maybe they want to compensate for the money Abraham owed them? Let me tell you, reordering materials is not fun."

Jaqueline R on May 2025

Avatar for Payless Water Heaters & Plumbing Inc

Payless Water Heaters & Plumbing Inc

27919 Smyth Dr
4.21(
120
)
•Approved Pro

Payless Water Heaters & Plumbing Inc

27919 Smyth Dr
4.21(
120
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
1190 local quotes requested
21 years of experience

Payless Water Heaters provides Same day water heater Installation & Repair services. We also can install a New Tankless Water Heater the same day. We understand how important hot water is to your daily routine - Our team has over 30 years of combined industry-leading experience, which gives us greater insight into locating root problems and providing customized solutions. Unlike some technicians, we carefully survey the unit before starting any repairs. This allows us to accurately address the issue and create lasting solutions. As a Family owned and Locally operated business, we have deep roots in the community. Our mission is simple - provide the ultimate customer experience. This means always being on time, being professional, and being available, With upfront, honest pricing, and no extra charge for nights or weekends - If you're ready to get started, call (888)461-8249 if you need some help.

"Better than excellent. David was great. He explained all options, answered questions, completed the job faster than expected, and when it is time to replace my heater I will call on David and only David."

georgia t on September 2025

Payless Water Heaters provides Same day water heater Installation & Repair services. We also can install a New Tankless Water Heater the same day. We understand how important hot water is to your daily routine - Our team has over 30 years of combined industry-leading experience, which gives us greater insight into locating root problems and providing customized solutions. Unlike some technicians, we carefully survey the unit before starting any repairs. This allows us to accurately address the issue and create lasting solutions. As a Family owned and Locally operated business, we have deep roots in the community. Our mission is simple - provide the ultimate customer experience. This means always being on time, being professional, and being available, With upfront, honest pricing, and no extra charge for nights or weekends - If you're ready to get started, call (888)461-8249 if you need some help.

"Better than excellent. David was great. He explained all options, answered questions, completed the job faster than expected, and when it is time to replace my heater I will call on David and only David."

georgia t on September 2025

Avatar for Ace Pelizon Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Ace Pelizon Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

138 E Badillo Street
4.59(
37
)
•Approved Pro

Ace Pelizon Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

138 E Badillo Street
4.59(
37
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers
905 local quotes requested

We have 250+ 4.8 star Google Reviews and are proud to be one of the highest rated plumbing companies in San Gabriel Valley. Ace Pelizon Plumbing offers a full range of residential and commercial plumbing services across San Gabriel Valley. With over 80 years of experience, we have earned an excellent reputation among our customers and are more than happy to prove this to you through our comprehensive plumbing solutions. Whether you are in need of simple repairs or complex installation services, Ace Pelizon Plumbing can help. We take pride in our team of highly skilled plumbers that have gone through rigorous training programs as well as, background and drug screening tests for your peace of mind. When you need the highest level of service possible, you can count on us!

"Couldn't have gone better. Joe did the job perfectly. Lots of friendly conversation and explanation of what he was doing. He then explained the bill in detail and was on his way. I definitely would ask for him personally for any plumbing issues I might have in the future."

Craig C on November 2024

We have 250+ 4.8 star Google Reviews and are proud to be one of the highest rated plumbing companies in San Gabriel Valley. Ace Pelizon Plumbing offers a full range of residential and commercial plumbing services across San Gabriel Valley. With over 80 years of experience, we have earned an excellent reputation among our customers and are more than happy to prove this to you through our comprehensive plumbing solutions. Whether you are in need of simple repairs or complex installation services, Ace Pelizon Plumbing can help. We take pride in our team of highly skilled plumbers that have gone through rigorous training programs as well as, background and drug screening tests for your peace of mind. When you need the highest level of service possible, you can count on us!

"Couldn't have gone better. Joe did the job perfectly. Lots of friendly conversation and explanation of what he was doing. He then explained the bill in detail and was on his way. I definitely would ask for him personally for any plumbing issues I might have in the future."

Craig C on November 2024

Avatar for Highspeed Plumbing

Highspeed Plumbing

111 E Arrow Hwy
5.00(
2
)
•Approved Pro

Highspeed Plumbing

111 E Arrow Hwy
5.00(
2
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
642 local quotes requested

High Speed Plumbing is a veteran and family-owned/operated business dedicated to operating at “High Speed” in the military sense. That means that we’re always highly motivated and working at peak efficiency! Solving your plumbing problems effectively and affordably is our top priority, and we have the skills, experience, and attitude needed to do so.

"Ron was a true professional in diagnosing and fixing the issue."

Solomon P on May 2023

High Speed Plumbing is a veteran and family-owned/operated business dedicated to operating at “High Speed” in the military sense. That means that we’re always highly motivated and working at peak efficiency! Solving your plumbing problems effectively and affordably is our top priority, and we have the skills, experience, and attitude needed to do so.

"Ron was a true professional in diagnosing and fixing the issue."

Solomon P on May 2023

Avatar for IND Construction, LLC.

IND Construction, LLC.

16430 Ventura Blvd
4.93(
97
)
•Approved Pro

IND Construction, LLC.

16430 Ventura Blvd
4.93(
97
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 96% of Angi customers
Recommended by 96% of HomeAdvisor customers
1622 local quotes requested

At IND construction, we believe that the heart lives where the home is. We do more than construct homes; we commit to caring, design & beauty. Why IND? High-Quality Homes With High Standards Of Excellence! For over 16 years, IND Construction has offered Design & Build construction services throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. We specialize in residential remodeling, including New Construction and Custom Home Building, Additions of All Types, Complete Home Renovations, Kitchens and Baths, Design, and Planning. We help take your blue-sky concepts and turn your dream remodel into a reality! Our commitment is to preserve the origins of the structure, integrated with our specialized interior designs. As a fully licensed (License #937833), bonded & insured remodeling company, we are reliable, trustworthy & reputable. From our family to yours, our #1 goal is your satisfaction! Services Provided Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Custom Home, Garage Building, Guesthouse Design & Construction, Home Additions, Home Remodeling, New Home Construction, Bathroom Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling Awards * NKBA - National Kitchen & Bath Association * NARI - National Association of the remodeling industry * Best of Houzz Service Award, 2014-2016 * 2012 Angie's List- Super Service Award

"My husband and I hired IND Construction for a stucco project on our home, and we could not be happier. From start to finish, we were treated with kindness and respect. Eran Zared and his team exceeded our expectations and demonstrated that they genuinely cared about the quality of their work and their customers. The texture and finish of the stucco are consistent and beautifully done, and their passion really shows in the final result. The project was completed ahead of schedule, at a reasonable price, without cutting corners. We look forward to choosing IND Construction for our future projects, as well. Thanks so much, job well done!"

Leslea R on August 2025

At IND construction, we believe that the heart lives where the home is. We do more than construct homes; we commit to caring, design & beauty. Why IND? High-Quality Homes With High Standards Of Excellence! For over 16 years, IND Construction has offered Design & Build construction services throughout Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. We specialize in residential remodeling, including New Construction and Custom Home Building, Additions of All Types, Complete Home Renovations, Kitchens and Baths, Design, and Planning. We help take your blue-sky concepts and turn your dream remodel into a reality! Our commitment is to preserve the origins of the structure, integrated with our specialized interior designs. As a fully licensed (License #937833), bonded & insured remodeling company, we are reliable, trustworthy & reputable. From our family to yours, our #1 goal is your satisfaction! Services Provided Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Custom Home, Garage Building, Guesthouse Design & Construction, Home Additions, Home Remodeling, New Home Construction, Bathroom Remodeling, Kitchen Remodeling Awards * NKBA - National Kitchen & Bath Association * NARI - National Association of the remodeling industry * Best of Houzz Service Award, 2014-2016 * 2012 Angie's List- Super Service Award

"My husband and I hired IND Construction for a stucco project on our home, and we could not be happier. From start to finish, we were treated with kindness and respect. Eran Zared and his team exceeded our expectations and demonstrated that they genuinely cared about the quality of their work and their customers. The texture and finish of the stucco are consistent and beautifully done, and their passion really shows in the final result. The project was completed ahead of schedule, at a reasonable price, without cutting corners. We look forward to choosing IND Construction for our future projects, as well. Thanks so much, job well done!"

Leslea R on August 2025

Avatar for TM Group Appliance Repair

TM Group Appliance Repair

7439 Woodman Ave
5.00(
17
)
•Approved Pro

TM Group Appliance Repair

7439 Woodman Ave
5.00(
17
)
•Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers
711 local quotes requested

At TM Group Appliance Repair, we specialize in reliable and efficient appliance repair services for residential and commercial clients. Our team of experienced technicians is trained to handle a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers. We pride ourselves on delivering prompt, courteous service, and use only high-quality parts to ensure lasting repairs. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer flexible scheduling and transparent pricing. Whether it’s a minor issue or a major malfunction, we are dedicated to restoring your appliances to optimal working condition, minimizing downtime and inconvenience. Trust TM Group Appliance Repair for all your appliance repair needs—where quality meets convenience.

"Very smoothly. Arrived at designated time. Good communication."

Judy C on September 2025

At TM Group Appliance Repair, we specialize in reliable and efficient appliance repair services for residential and commercial clients. Our team of experienced technicians is trained to handle a wide range of appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers. We pride ourselves on delivering prompt, courteous service, and use only high-quality parts to ensure lasting repairs. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, we offer flexible scheduling and transparent pricing. Whether it’s a minor issue or a major malfunction, we are dedicated to restoring your appliances to optimal working condition, minimizing downtime and inconvenience. Trust TM Group Appliance Repair for all your appliance repair needs—where quality meets convenience.

"Very smoothly. Arrived at designated time. Good communication."

Judy C on September 2025

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FAQs for sump pump or interior foundation drains installation projects in Sierra Madre, CA

Most residential pumps draw approximately 1,300 to 2,900 watts when they first start, then settle at roughly 800 to 1,050 watts during normal operation. The exact number depends on the motor’s horsepower and how often the float switch tells the pump to run. Even at the high end, the electricity cost is minor compared with the expense of cleaning up a flooded basement.

Grab a ruler and an empty 18‑inch‑wide pit. During a steady rain, time how much the water rises in one minute. Multiply that depth (in inches) by 60 to calculate gallons per hour, then add 50% for safety. If the result tops 2,100 gallons per hour—about 35 gallons a minute—you’ll need a 3/4‑horsepower unit. Anything lower, and a 1/3- or 1/2-horsepower pump should do the trick.

Loud rattling, constant cycling, or shuddering vibrations are the pump’s way of telling you it’s on its last legs. Musty smells, higher electric bills, and visible rust are other red flags. If the unit is 10 years old or older and exhibits any of these symptoms, replace it before the next heavy rain turns your basement into a wading pool.

You don’t have to hire a licensed plumber, but you should still bring in someone who installs sump pumps for a living—whether that’s a plumber, basement‑waterproofing specialist, or experienced handyman. They know the local codes, can wire the pump safely, and will test the system before they leave. Skipping professional help might void the warranty and could leave you with a pump that fails when you need it most.

Not every basement needs a pump, but if your home sits in a floodplain, has a high water table, or has ever taken on water during a storm, a sump pump is inexpensive insurance. For basements that only struggle with condensation or the occasional damp spot, sealing cracks and improving drainage may be all that is needed.

The Sierra Madre, CA homeowners’ guide to sump pump or interior foundation drains installations

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles