What your sump does - Most homes with a sump hole have a loop of 3” or 4” perforated drain tile pipe around the interior or exterior perimeter of their basement.  The drain tile channels ground water to the sump hole where the pump can remove it.  If there is enough water in your sump the reach the midpoint of the drain tile pipes, you are in danger of a flooded basement and should install a pump.  If you remove your sump cover, your radon system will be ineffective until the cover is replaced.

Servicing your pump - To remove your sump lid, remove the screws securing it, disconnect the water discharge pipe and lift the lid off.  If your radon vent pipe goes through the sump lid, you can usually lift the pipe up and over to get it out of your way.  If there is a check valve on the water discharge pipe above the lid, disconnect the bottom of the valve to prevent a gush of water.  If there is just a rubber coupling, be ready (with a bucket and a towel) for a gush of water as the pipe drains.  Always unplug the pump before disconnecting the pipe.  After servicing the pump, make sure the float (if there is one) doesn’t bind on the side of the sump hole.

Installing a new pump - If you’ve never had a sump pump, cut holes in the lid for the pipe and wire.  After reinstalling the lid, use rubber seals or plumber’s putty to seal around the pipe and wire.  A plumber can furnish and install the whole system.  Make sure he knows that you need rubber seals at the pipe and wire.  You must use a submersible pump, not a pedestal pump.  Avoid pumps that have a float on a cord that can get hung up on the side of your sump hole.