One of the known features of a dehumidifier is for it to collect and condense excess water vapor in the immediate space. The appliance would then usually gather the surplus of moisture in a built-in container, which needs draining. Now you’re wondering if you can drain your basement’s dehumidifier through a sump pump. If so, how can you do it? We researched for you and here’s what we found.
Draining a basement dehumidifier with a sump pump is possible. However, you need to establish a connection between the two machines for the proper water disposal to work. You can achieve this objective using these steps:
- Make a hole on the sump pump’s cover and attach a quick-connect adapter.
- Attach a short hose to the end of the quick connect adapter that’s facing the inside of the dehumidifier.
- Connect a long hose to the other end of the adapter.
- Attach and secure the long hose to the dehumidifier.
Water removal from the basement’s dehumidifier with the help of a sump pump can eliminate the need to dump water manually. Keep reading as we talk about this DIY project in greater detail. We’ll also tackle other basement dehumidifier water removal methods for you to compare each process.
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Where Should I Drain My Basement Dehumidifier?
Homeowners have different options to drain their basement dehumidifiers. These choices include the sump pump, gravity drain, and condensate pump. Take a look at the pros and cons of each alternative.
Sump Pump
Dehumidifier water removal through a sump pump can be a good option if you don’t mind running the device more frequently than usual. Additionally, this option might be better for unfinished basements since you will likely have easier access to the sump pump as opposed to having the space finished.
Gravity Drain
A gravity drain can work well if your property is in a location wherein the earth’s pull is reasonably strong. The concept is to place the dehumidifier in a fairly high position, allowing water to flow from the device with the help of gravity.
However, a basement dehumidifier often works better when placed on the floor than on a shelf. Placing this appliance at a high place may limit its operational efficacy.
Condensate Pump
As its name implies, a condensate pump condenses moisture from a heating, cooling, or steaming system. Like the gravity drain method, the water removal through a condensate pump needs the dehumidifier to be at a fairly high location, such as a shelf or cement block.
On the other hand, many dehumidifiers already come with built-in condensate pumps. Therefore, it offers homeowners with enhanced convenience for the moisture removal task.
Check out this dehumidifier with a condensate pump on Amazon.
How Do You Drain A Dehumidifier Into A Sump Pump?
Before you begin this project, make sure that your sump pump has a basin cover. If it doesn’t, you may need to buy or make one. Also, ensure that you’re wearing protective gear like safety goggles and gloves. Making the connection from the dehumidifier to the sump pump might become messy because of airborne particulates.
Moreover, make sure to check the basement for radioactive gases like radon. Stop pursuing this project if these harmful gases exist. Let professionals remove the toxic airborne substances first before establishing the connection from the dehumidifier to the sump pump.
After making the proper arrangements, proceed with the next step:
What You’ll Need
- Two garden hoses (one short and one long)
- Quick connect adapter
- Drill with drill bits
- Silicone sealant
- Vacuum cleaner
Step-by-Step Guide
- Drill a hole on the side of the sump pump’s cover for the hose.
- Take the quick connect adapter and place it in the newly drilled hole. Vacuum the debris afterward.
- Secure the quick connect adapter with the silicone sealant.
- Take the short hose and attach it to the inside portion of the quick connect adapter. The other end of this hose should be in the dehumidifier.
- Attach the long hose to the exterior area of the quick connect adapter.
- Open the dehumidifier and attach the other end of the long hose to the appliance. Ensure that the connection is secure but don’t overtighten it.
You can also watch the video below for more information about the steps mentioned above:
If you’re still in the process of installing a dehumidifier in your basement, you need to know the correct size for the space. Read our post on the appropriate dimensions for a basement dehumidifier to help you in that regard.
Check out this sump pump basin cover on Amazon.
How Do You Drain A Dehumidifier To Condensate Pump?
Connecting a dehumidifier to a condensate pump for water disposal is generally easier to achieve than attaching a dehumidifier-to-sump pump assembly. Many dedicated condensate pump kits already possess a hose. Connect this hose to the dehumidifier and operate to drain the collected moisture.
Check out this condensate pump on Amazon.
Can A Sump Pump And Dehumidifier Use The Same Circuit?
It’s not advisable for a dehumidifier and a sump pump to use the same outlet. Otherwise, a high risk of tripping the circuit breaker may occur.
Both appliances need dedicated circuits. Moreover, the sump pump should also have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent risks of electrocution during use.
Will A Dehumidifier Remove Standing Water?
Using a dehumidifier can be a good way to remove standing water, particularly after a basement flood. But take note that this appliance cannot remove the excess moisture quickly. It’s still best to move out the water as fast as possible to minimize moisture damage.
Keep in mind that it can take a significant amount of time to run a dehumidifier after a flood. It should take at least 12 hours of running time per day or more to help remove the excess humidity and standing water in the space.
Also, make sure that the basement drain is clean and devoid of blockage. Read our post on how to unclog a basement drain to help you with this operation.
Do Dehumidifiers Leak Water?
Dehumidifiers can still be susceptible to damages or faults, resulting in leaks. Some malfunctions are repairable to help reduce replacement costs. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot a dehumidifier if it’s leaking water:
- Make sure that the water reservoir is empty for each operation. Dump the water in the container before turning on the device.
- Check and remove clogs in the hose. Permanently installed dehumidifiers generally use hoses that may contract blockages.
- Verify pump damages. Some dehumidifiers, particularly those using gravity drains, use pumps to push and remove water from the device. These parts may fail, which might require replacements.
- Ensure that the overflow switch is working. Certain dehumidifiers have overflow prevention features that should work automatically.
- Remove ice buildup. Dehumidifiers that work in environments below 65 degrees Fahrenheit may produce frozen coils. The additional density can make water leak from the unit.
Final Words
To ensure a proper drain from the basement dehumidifier to a nearby sump pump, you need to establish a connection between the two appliances. This operation only requires a few pieces of equipment, such as a quick connect adapter and two hoses. Don’t forget to safeguard the connection with silicone sealant to prevent leaks.
