How to Create a Sump for Drainage

The first step in creating a sump pump is to dig a hole.

Sump for Underground Water Drainage

1. Dig a hole if the sump will be used to collect underground water such as rain water.

2. Estimate the width of the hole to fit gravel at the bottom and the sides once the pit or bucket has been installed into the hole.

3. Spread gravel at the bottom of the hole.

4. Insert pit or bucket. Make sure the pit has tiny holes all over it that are less than a quarter inch or make several tiny holes all over the bottom and sides of the pit.

5. Fill the side gaps with more gravel.

6. Discharge the water with a pump.

Sump for Sewer Water Drainage

1. Use a solid pit with no holes if the sump is to be used for sewer drainage.

2. Size the pit according to plumbing codes. More bathrooms increases the size of the pit.

3. Drill a hole on the side of the pit to coordinate with the pitch of the pipeline coming from the bathroom to drain the sewage into the pit.

4. Insert the pit into the ground.

5. Use one pump or two alternate pumps to discharge the sewage up to the sewer line.

Tip

Gravel is used to keep sand out and allows water to drain faster by traveling through the gravel instead of straight into the ground, which later creates mud.