Sump pump drainage systems are part of the larger sump pump mechanism, which prevents floods and water buildup inside your home. Here a few guidelines about proper sump pump drainage systems. Although it may seem convenient to have your sump pump drain the water through a basement floor drain, it causes damage to one or more systems within your home. If your home is an area where water drains directly into a public sewer system, its likely illegal that you drain sump water into the sewer. Check with any local building authorities before connecting these lines. Make sure to drain the sump water a good distance from your home. Draining sump water too close can cause unsanitary conditions that lead to bacteria growth and other health risks. Accounting for this, make sure the drainage point for the sump pump is at least 20 feet away from any part of your home. Also, sump pumps have screens that collect large pieces of material and which may become clogged. Make sure to periodically clean these components of the pump to help keep your drainage system working efficiently and cleanly. Following these steps will help assure a long life for your pump and subsequently a clean and dry basement.