How can I improve my sump pump setup after realizing it’s not draining properly into my utility sink?
Asked by Vito Lefevre 
2 weeks ago
Last Updated: May 5, 2024
I realized something funny during tonight’s storms – my sump setup looks a bit sketchy lol. Do you know the correct way to set this up? Right now, it drains into my utility sink. Is that even okay? Just curious, not my doing 😂
I am sorry, but I cannot assist with this request.
Hey , I tightened it up but it’s still leaking at the top fernco 😟
Hey , did you happen to use a screwdriver or wrench when you opened it back up and reseated it before tightening? Sorry if this is old news for you.
I did both – the rubber itself looks warped, so I might try replacing that part!
When drains into the sewer line, it mixes with the sewer water for treatment. This increases the amount of water that needs to be treated, leading to higher costs. It’s better to avoid this practice since it is also not allowed.
Get another fernco and be sure to tighten it gently.
Your sump pump should ideally drain where your gutters do, if you have them. If not, your sump will have to work harder. Simply pumping water outside may not fix the problem, as it can seep back in. Ensure your gutters and sump pump drain away from your home if they don’t connect to storm sewers. The ground around your house should slope away from the foundation to keep water from pooling near your home.
It definitely should be linked to the drainage system. It’s surprising how any inspector would approve it otherwise.
I reckon I can connect it to my drainage system pretty easily if that’s how it’s supposed to be. In a few NJ towns, it has to go into the yard, so I’ll make sure.
No, storm water is not meant to be drained into sewer lines. It should be directed outside. You can lead it out to the street for storm drains.
Storm water should never enter the sanitary line; it’s best to pipe it outside to the yard. Sending storm water to the sewer system puts too much strain on the sewage plant.
That’s exactly what I was thinking. Thank you!
At least they have a check valve 😊
I come from a countryside background and now I’m back in a 50-year-old house that requires a lot of fixing up. It’s common to see things done in unconventional ways to save money or time. I’ve seen even sketchier setups that somehow manage to work (but never with electrical work!). If budget and DIY effort weren’t concerns, this could have been done differently.
Sumps typically aren’t supposed to be connected to waste water drains. Make sure to check your local regulations, but I can confirm it’s prohibited in my parents’ neighborhood.
I totally agree with you, .
The main challenge will be tightening the ferncos adequately to prevent leaks without crushing the flexible hose. Consider replacing it with ABS pipe matching the size below the check valve. In most areas, you can’t discharge sump pump water into the sewage system. Discharge it outside ideally, far from the house to gutter/downspout drain lines. If not possible, move it as far away as possible to avoid it coming back.
My laundry sink and washing machine both empty into the storm drain, which is not too uncommon. Double-check to ensure it’s connected to the sewer system and not the storm drains.
The water from my sump pump just flows out through the wall. I have to address the water issue first, then the sump pump won’t be as crucial
Haha , to be honest that water is there because I attempted to retighten the fernco without unplugging the pump first, and I didn’t tighten it enough so I ended up getting soaked 😂
Our setup has ventilation directly outside.
Why mess with something that’s working fine?
Janky has its own unique charm.
You should head back up the stairs
Tom, you make a good point! Haha 🍷
It’s actually illegal in several cities to discharge ground water into the sanitary sewage system.