How deep should a sump pump be installed?

Most sump pumps are installed in pits that are at least 18 inches wide and 24 inches deep. This ensures the pump can sit below floor level and collect rising groundwater efficiently.

What can I do to prevent a sump pump failure?

Prevent failure with regular testing, pit cleaning, and float switch checks. Installing a battery-powered backup system is essential during power outages or if the main pump fails.

Do I need a plumber to install a sump pump?

While experienced DIYers may attempt installation, hiring a licensed plumber ensures code compliance, proper discharge routing, and full system performance, especially for backups and dual-pump setups.

How do I test my sump pump?

Pour water into the pit until the float rises and the pump activates. It should pump out water efficiently and shut off automatically. You can also manually lift the float to confirm functionality.

A sump pump collects groundwater in a pit (sump basin) and pumps it away from your foundation to prevent basement flooding. Most systems use float switches to activate the pump as water rises.

How long do sump pumps last?

Sump pumps generally last 5–10 years depending on use. If yours runs frequently, we recommend replacing it every 5 years. Backup batteries typically last 3–5 years with proper maintenance.

Should I have a battery backup sump pump?

Yes. A battery backup system protects your basement during power outages or when the primary pump fails. It's especially important for finished basements or homes prone to flooding.

Does Sharp Plumbing repair and replace sump pumps?

Absolutely. We offer sump pump repair, new installation, and battery backup installation. If your sump pump is over 5 years old or showing signs of failure, we recommend full replacement for reliability.

Sump Pump Repair in Independence, Missouri

Many homes in Independence, Missouri rely on a working sump pump to prevent basement flooding and water damage. If your sump pump is running nonstop, making strange noises, cycling too often, or not turning on at all, it’s time to call a professional for sump pump repair.

Sump Pump Repair & Installation in Independence, MO

The Importance of a Working Sump Pump

A reliable sump pump helps protect your basement from flooding, standing water, and costly water damage. If your pump won’t turn on, runs nonstop, or can’t keep up during heavy rain, we provide fast sump pump repair and professional sump pump installation to keep your home protected.

Reliable Sump Pump Repair & Installation for Your Home

Sharp Plumbing has experienced, licensed plumbers ready to help protect your home from basement flooding and water damage. When a sump pump fails, it doesn’t just leave standing water, it can lead to ruined belongings, mold risk, and expensive cleanup.

That’s why sump pump work needs to be done correctly: proper sizing, a secure discharge line, a working check valve, and safe connections.

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Contact Sharp For All of Your Plumbing Needs!

Experienced, Trusted & Local KC Plumbers

At Sharp Plumbing, we make it easy to keep your home running comfortably and safely. Whether you’re dealing with an urgent issue or planning an upgrade, our licensed plumbing team delivers dependable service, clear options, and quality work you can feel good about.

Services We Provide

Leak Detection & Plumbing Repairs
Small leaks turn into big damage fast. We find the source quickly and make lasting repairs—helping you avoid water stains, mold, and expensive surprises.

Drain Cleaning & Clog Removal
Slow drains and backups don’t just “go away.” We clear tough clogs and restore proper flow using the right method for the job. Whether that’s professional snaking or high-pressure hydro-jetting for heavier buildup.

Water Heater Repair & Installation
No hot water? Not enough hot water? We repair and replace tank and tankless water heaters, help you choose the best size for your home, and make sure everything runs efficiently and reliably.

Faucet, Toilet & Fixture Installation
Upgrading a bathroom or kitchen? We install and replace faucets, showers, sinks, toilets, and more! Cleanly, correctly, and with attention to the details that keep leaks and headaches away.

Pipe Repair & Replacement
From a small section repair to full repiping, we keep your plumbing system strong and dependable. If your pipes are corroded, leaking, or causing low water pressure, we’ll walk you through the best fix.

Sump Pump Installation & Maintenance
Protect your basement from water damage with a reliable sump pump. We install new pumps, replace failing units, and provide maintenance that keeps everything ready when storms hit.

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Serving Homeowners Across the Metro

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Independence

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Homeowner FAQs

Why is my sump pump not draining?

A sump pump may not be draining due to a clogged discharge pipe, a stuck float switch, a power issue, or a failed pump motor. Debris buildup or a frozen or blocked drain line can also prevent proper drainage. It’s best to inspect the components or call a professional plumber for diagnosis and repair.

Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump?

While DIY installation is possible for experienced homeowners, hiring a plumber is recommended to ensure proper setup, drainage, and code compliance.

How many years does a sump pump last?

The life expectancy of a sump pump depends on how often it operates. If your sump pump runs often, you should replace it every five years to ensure your basement will be protected from flooding during and after heavy rainfall. If your sump pump barely ever operates, you can expect it to last 7-10 years. But if you do not have a battery-powered backup sump pump or a water-powered backup pump, we recommend that your main sump pump be replaced every five years. If your sump pump operates frequently, it’s because there is a lot of ground water present around your home’s foundation and your pump must turn itself on to deal with it. The float switch is the moving part that typically fails first on a sump pump, rendering it incapable of turning itself on when water fills the sump pit.

Should I have a backup battery on my sump pump?

A battery-powered backup sump pump will operate in the event of a power failure or if your primary sump pump stops working for any reason. If your basement is finished or you store anything you care about in your basement, you should have a backup sump pump in place. The cost of having a backup sump pump is negligible compared to the cost of flood cleanup and water restoration services. Most insurance companies will discount a homeowner’s insurance policy if there is a backup sump pump system installed.

Does Sharp Plumbing repair or install sump pumps?

Yes. Sharp Plumbing provides sump pump repair and sump pump installation in Independence, MO and the surrounding Kansas City area. If your sump pump won’t turn on, runs nonstop, cycles too often, or can’t keep up during heavy rain, our licensed plumbers will troubleshoot the issue and recommend the most cost-effective fix.

In many cases, sump pump problems are caused by float switch issues, clogged or frozen discharge lines, check valve failure, power problems, or a stuck impeller—and those can often be repaired without replacing the entire pump. If the unit is older, repeatedly failing, or the motor is burned out, we’ll recommend a new sump pump replacement and can also install a battery backup sump pump for added protection during storms and power outages.

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Call today to schedule sump pump service and protect your basement before the next big rain.

Sump Pump Services in Independence, Missouri and Beyond!

Sump pump problems can go from “something seems off” to a flooded basement fast. What starts as a pump that won’t turn on, strange noises, constant cycling, or standing water near the pit can point to a failing switch, a clogged discharge line, a bad check valve, or a sump pump that needs professional repair or replacement.

That’s where Sharp Plumbing comes in. We provide sump pump repair and installation for homes in Independence, Missouri and across the Kansas City area.

Our team brings real hands-on experience to every job, using proven troubleshooting and clean, code-safe installation methods to fix the issue the right way. If you’re dealing with recurring sump pump failures, slow drainage, or storm-related water problems, we’ll restore reliable protection, keep your space clean, and help prevent the same issue from coming back.