Adding an external condensate pump to a dehumidifier (basement lift to a drain)

A small condensate pump (Little Giant VCMA class) sits below the dehumidifier drain outlet, collects water by gravity and pushes it up to a drain. Size the pump for the lift, keep the gravity hose sloped with no dips, and wire or use the pump's overflow safety switch so a pump failure stops the dehumidifier or sounds an alarm instead of flooding.

Single source ~60 min moderateBrands: All

Before you start

  • Plug the pump into a grounded outlet; keep cords off wet floors.
  • Wiring the safety switch into a control circuit should follow the pump and dehumidifier instructions; when in doubt, use it as an alarm only.
  • Unplug both units before plumbing changes.

Diagnostic steps

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Adding an external condensate pump to a dehumidifier (basement lift to a drain) · OnCall Tech