Condensation Pump Height?

Hi All
After deciding to finish my basement (75% done!) we've hit a small snag coming into the home stretch.
There was a strange trap that we finally discovered was for a dehumidifier- it was illegal according to the plumbing inspector, and we removed it. There is now nowhere to hook up the dehumidifier for the summer months- I had asked a few plumbers and they recommended a 'Condensate Pump'. I see they're easily available- I even have a plan to vent it to the outside but still have a lingering question.

How do I know if the pump is strong enough to move the water up the pipe and out of the basement? (It's mostly below grade with a walk-out bulkhead)

IE- Can I put the pump and the dehumidifier on the floor and let the hose run up to the top of the concrete sill about 7 feet up, where the water would then trickle outside?(once I make a hole and the PVC pipestem!) or do I need to put the dehumidifier and pump higher off the ground to prevent a backflow/flood?

Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks.
-Steve

 

A condensate pump will have no problem pumping 7 vertical feet. Most all have to pump from ground level to the height of the first floor sill. It will cycle on and off as needed. You may have to make an adjustment to the height of your dehumidifier, maybe not. The drain must be high enough to drain into the condensate pump resevoir, and consequently be pumped out to the atmosphere.

 

Chandler-
Thanks for the quick reply and the advice!
I had already planned on biulding a base for it so the dehumidifier would drain into the pump. Just wasn't sure how strong those little fellas are. It'l all be in a closet with luvor (sp?) doors for air circulation too.
Thanks again,
-Steve

 

You really should have a check valve immediately above the pump to prevent the water in the line from draining back and causing more frequent cyling. I would immagine a good pump would have this. - If not you can find one to install in the discharge line.

Dick