Sump pump discharge lines

I am replacing a sump pump as part of a basement remodel. The old pump is plumbed with a 1.5" PVC line a couple of feet up to the check valve. From the valve to the outside it's 1" copper.

Is this a code violation or a bad idea and why? I don't want to charge the client for extra work (to replace the copper piping) if it's not necessary.

dx

There may not be any code governing that pump installation, but in general the manufacturer would probably recommend not to reduce a discharge line, and 1" sounds small for a sump pump of any reasonable capacity. I suppose it 1" was adequate for the rating of the pump, then starting 1½ and reducing to 1" would not hurt.

Patrick, as I stated in the original post, the 1" copper line goes outside. Our local codes do not allow sumps to be discharged into the sewer lines.

This pump is very small and rarely needed. I can't think of any reason to replace the 1" copper pipe, which is in an awkward corner. But I wanted a reality check from the pros.

dx

Oh right missed that word "outside" my bad.

I would repipe it to the proper 1.5"so you get your full discharge. You might have a slow season or two but that one time flood season will over whelm your pump fast.