Cost of a sump pump & AC condensation line?
Question:I have an estimate to have a sump pump and AC condensation line installed for $800.00 Is this a fair price? Or do I need another estimate? Thank you for any advice.
Answers:
I would say that is almost robery without a gun.
The sump pump and Pit at Lowes cost about $150 total, thats for a good submergible pump and a plastic pit.
That plastic piping for the condensation line is like $25.
And if you need to dig a hole for the pump Pit, then the labor for that about $150. Electrical about $50
So I come up with about an estimate with labor and profit of about $400.
Why are you installing a sump pump? You dont need a sump pump for condensate. What you need is a small condensate pump and a plastic tank sitting right on the floor next to the evaporator coil. Here is an estimate for that condensate pump. Pump is $65. Small plastic tank on the floor is $20 Piping is about $25. Electrical outlet about $50. So id say with labor and material for a condensate pump and plastic tank and piping and profit its going to be about $250 and NO MORE.
I myself, have a small plastic tank and condensate pump. The pump is right in the tank and it sits on the floor and is pluged into an out let. There is a flex 1/2 inch nylon line that runs to the outside thru the wall and drains about 10 feet from the house. You can buy all these parts and install yourself. If there is a WW Grainger (look on their website on line) in your area they have the pump and the nylon line and all the fittings to do this job , tank and all Cost around $75 for this whole thing.
Always get three estimates for jobs over $500. It should not cost anything to have someone come out and bid. without specifics about your job, it is difficult to say whether 800 is fair or not. Consider the installer's time (and expertise). The cost of materials is most likely less than 1/3 the bid price.
If you plan on DIY, the condensate pump will need to be wired into your A/C unit to ensure that the system does not run if the pump stops working. The drain line will need to be run to your sewer system or outside your home. The power cord will need to be electrically grounded. If the home is newer, this should not be a problem. If you don't have 3-prong plugs, it may be a bit more of a problem.
You can do this job yourself for less than $100. You can purchase a small submersible utility pump from Lowes or Home Depot for around $60. Run a hose from your A/C unit to the small reservoir on the pump. Run a second hose from the pump to a drain or run it outside your house.
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