In the depths of your home lies a silent guardian, quietly awaiting its moment of valor. Though often unseen and overlooked, the significance of a sump pump cannot be underestimated. Like a loyal sentinel, it stands ready to defend your abode from the relentless onslaught of water’s unpredictable nature.
What is a Sump Pump?
Alright, imagine this – a sump pump for the basement is like having your very own water warrior at home! It’s a clever little device implanted in your basement and is constantly alert, keeping a close eye on errant water. This dependable sump pump activates when it detects water entering the home due to heavy rains or plumbing issues. It pumps out all the extra water, ensuring your basement is completely dry and free of bothersome flooding. You may thus unwind knowing that your sump pump protects your house against water’s nasty surprises.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Collection Basin: In the lowest point of the flood-prone area, a pit or collection basin is dug and used to house the sump pump. The sump pit is the name of this hole.
Water Accumulation: The float switch connected to the pump notices the rising water level when water builds up in the sump pit.
Activation: Lifting the float switch causes the pump to turn on automatically when the water level in the pit rises. Sometimes, pressure sensors are used instead of float switches in pumps.
Pumping Action: As soon as the pump is turned on, its impeller starts to spin quickly, producing centrifugal force. Due to this force, the center of the pump experiences low pressure as the water is forced outward to the edges.
Water Removal: Water from the sump pit can be sucked in through the intake or inlet valve thanks to the low-pressure area in the center of the pump. The discharge pipe is then used to force the water out.
Discharge: Through the discharge pipe, water is pumped up and away from the pit, often away from the building and into a safe area like drainage or storm sewer.
Deactivation: The float switch or pressure sensor returns to its initial position when the water level in the sump pit decreases, turning off the pump.
The sump pump will continue to run automatically, turning on and off as necessary based on the amount of water in the pit.
In this article, we will compare these 12 sump pumps:
The 12 Best Sump Pump Reviews
We scoured the market to find the best sump pump brands and meticulously reviewed 12 sump pumps, evaluating their features, pump power, and price to handpick our top favorites. If you’re facing an unfortunate situation where your sump pump has stopped working, fret not! Check out these excellent models we’ve thoroughly vetted. We left no stone unturned, exploring all the different types of sump pumps available, so you can effortlessly discover the perfect fit for your home.
Best Sump Pump: Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Submersible Sump Pump
The Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate is probably the best sump pump in the market due to its dependability, powerful water pump, and affordability on any budget.
The best sump pump on the market is the M53 Mighty Mate. It has a high flow rate thanks to its powerful motor and a cast iron build that will last many years.
Don’t be surprised if your local waterproofing company also recommends the M53 from Zoeller – and it is easy to see why.
The M53 can lift precise gallons of water per minute from a normal size sump, and its sold cast iron casing means it is built to last. All you need to do is install this in your basement and let the powerful pump shine.
If you have ever repaired or installed sump pumps, you have likely come across the M53 Mighty Mate. It is one of the most popular pumps at its price point and is excellent value for the money. One of our favorite things about this pump is its easy installation!
M53 Features
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Size:7.8 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches
- Material: Engineered Thermoplastic and Cast Iron
- Motor: 1/3 HP
- Maximum Flow Rate: 2700 Gallons Per Hour
Pros
- Can lift 30 gallons of water per minute to a height of 9 feet
- Epoxy finish to resist corrosion and extend pump life
- Cast iron casing is built to last many years
Cons
- Not as powerful as other pumps on the market
Runner Up: Superior Pump 91330
The Superior Pump 91330 is an excellent choice for small to mid-sized homes that need a high max head height pump.
Another best sump pump of ours is the Superior Pump 91330. This pump can be used as a sump and utility pump around the house.
We like its affordable price and powerful pump that can push up to 2400 gallons of water per hour.
A high-capacity pump that does not sacrifice dependability for flow rate – sign us up! This pump from Superior Pumps is one of our favorite picks for small to mid-sized houses. The 1/3 HP motor can blast water 25 feet in the air, and the plastic is built to last for years of heavy pumping.
Pump Features
- Pump Type: Submersible Utility Pump
- Weight: 8.3 pounds
- Size: 7 x 7 x 13 inches
- Material: Thermoplastic construction
- Motor: 1/3 horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 2400 GPH
Pros
- Capable of high-capacity pumping with a 1 1/4-inch top discharge
- Can vertically pump water 25 feet in the air
- Durable thermoplastic material and a one-year warranty provide the trust and protection you need
Cons
- The thermoplastic body is more fragile than cast iron alternatives
Stainless Steel: WAYNE CDU980E
The WAYNE CDU980E is a good choice for homeowners looking for a powerful pump that will last for a long time due to its strong exterior.
The Wayne CDU980E is assembled in America and features a stainless steel motor housing for protection, and a cast iron pump base provides a solid foundation.
A top suction design minimizes clogs and airlocks while the powerful pump can push up to 46000 gallons per hour. It is unlikely to airlock thanks to its complete suction design.
Pump Features
- Easy to install
- Max flow rate of 4600 GPH and 3500 GPH at 10′
- 5-year warranty
- Weights about 12 pounds
- Fits 11 in and larger sump pump pits
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump
- Weight: 12 pounds
- Size: 8 x 8 x 12 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel and Cast Iron
- Motor: 3/4 HP
Cons
- More expensive than other pumps on the market
Budget Pick: Simer Geyser II
The Simer Geyser II is a good pick if you need a basement pump that can also be used around the house and backyard.
The best sump pump under $50 is the Simer Geyser II 1/4 HP Submersible Utility Pump.
The Geyser II is made of strong thermoplastic, making it lightweight but tough enough to handle most jobs with its powerful 6 Amp motor.
While it is often used as a sump pump in a basement sump pump pit, it can also be used in a garden with its hose adapter. All you need to do to install this pump is place it in your hole and plug it in!
Pump Features
- Easy to use
- Thermal overload protection
- 1 year limited warranty
- Plug in and use – good for other jobs around the house
- Comes with 8-foot power cord and garden hose connector
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Utility Pump
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Size: 7.5 x 7.5 x 12.8 inches
- Material: Thermoplastic construction
- Motor: 1/4 horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 1260 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- Some reports of a short lifespan
Best Sump Pump With Basin Kit: Zoeller 105
More than just a pump, the Zoeller 105 is a complete pump and basin system that comes ready to install.
Most basements need a complete system, not just a pump. If this sounds like you, we recommend the Zoeller 105 basin package. This “all-in-one” kit is perfect if you know what you want and don’t want to mix and match brands, but it might not be the best option if you are just shopping for a pump or basin. The pump has 1/3 HP and has an interior vortex impeller to prevent clogs and break up large bits of basin debris. It is float-switch operated and the exterior is Zoeller’s signature green cast iron.
The basin is made of Polypropylene and has a 2” NPT vent plus a 1.5″ NPT discharge line. It also comes with an airtight cover that helps block noise and prevent smells from seeping into the basement. The system can be dug into the basement floor or flat on the surface.
Pump Features
- Drain pump package
- No filters to clog or maintain
- Automatic, float operated mechanical switch 115V/1 Ph
- One year limited warranty
Pros
- All-in-one system that comes ready to install
- Long working life – designed to last 5+ years
- Cast iron and thermoplastic
Cons
- Not for people that are shopping for just a pump
Most Powerful: Zoeller M98
The M98 is a good choice for high-water flow areas. The pump is one of the most powerful on the market, and the cast iron build can last for years leak-free.
The biggest and best sump pump on the market is the Zoeller M98 Submersible Sump Pump.
The M98 pumps up to 72 gallons per minute and can pass up to 1/2 inch solids. Like other high-end Zoeller pumps, it is cast iron and coated in a corrosion-resistant epoxy.
With an oil-filled, hermetically sealed slip capacitor motor plus a plastic vortex impeller, the Flow-Mate M98 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a long-lasting sump pump that does not sacrifice power.
Pump Features
- Maximum temperature of 130 degrees
- 100% cast iron construction means no rusting parts
- Thermal overload protection
- One year limited warranty
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump/Effluent Pump
- Weight: 39 pounds
- Size: 10.8 x 8 x 12.3 inches
- Material: Cast Iron
- Motor: 1/2 Horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 3420 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- One of the most expensive pumps on the market
Top pick for areas that receive above-average: Zoeller M264 Waste-Mate
Homes with heavy water flow need a heavy-duty pump like the Zoeller M264 Waste-Mate to keep things dry.
The Zoeller M264 is our best sump pump for areas that receive above-average. Pumping large volumes of groundwater from a big storm is no easy task. This pump has a 4/10 HP pump and a non-clogging vortex impeller to keep water moving out of your sump pit. It has a 2-pole switch attached to 2″ NPT discharge lines, so you may need an adapter if you have 1.5″ lines.
Pump Features
- Anti-clog vortex impeller
- breaks up larger solids
- keeps water moving through the pump
Pros
- Pump Type: Sewage Pump Pump
- Weight: 34.5 Pounds
- Size: 13.5 x 11 x 16.25 inches
- Material: Cast Iron
- Motor: 4/10th Horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 90 Gallons Per Minute
Cons
- Requires an adapter for 1.5″ lines
Easy to Install: WAYNE WWB WaterBUG
The WAYNE Waterbug is a good choice if you are looking for a pump that is easy to install and can be used in almost any situation.
The Wayne WaterBUG offers a top and side discharge allowing it to be used as a sump pump in open areas.
Made of sealed thermoplastic and corrosion-resistant brass in the United States, the WaterBUG offers homeowners a dependable multi-use pump. With a 30‘ max head height, this pump can be used in deep basements, around the house, and small ponds and pools.
Pump Features
- Easy hang tabs for seasonal users
- Removes water down to 1/16″
- Top and Side discharge allows for multiple uses
- The max flow rate of 1257 GPH
- Corrosion-resistant design
- Remove water down to 1/8″
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Size: 6 x 4 x 8 inches
- Material: Thermoplastic construction
- Motor: 1/6 horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 1257 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- Motor prone to overheating when overworked or clogged
Magnetic Float: Liberty Pump 257
Magnetic float-activated pumps are a good choice for places with long on/off cycles. We recommend the Liberty Pump 257.
The Liberty Pumps 257 is the best sump pump in Liberty’s line, and it is easy to see why. With its magnetic vertical float VMF switch and cast iron motor housing, the pump is tough enough for any basement or septic tank.
In areas with heavy flooding, the 257 also integrates with backup sump pumps like the SJ10 and sump pump alarms like the ALM-2.
Pump Features
- Cast Iron construction
- Filter solids up to 1/2″
- 21 foot max discharge head height
- Pumps up to 50 gallons per minute
- Activated by VMF float
- 3-year warranty
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump
- Weight: 21.2 pounds
- Size: 9.6 x 9.6 x 10.5 inches
- Material: Cast Iron
- Motor: 1/3 Horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 3000 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- Some reports of lemons and switch issues
Best Small Sump Pump: WaterAce WA33CPED
The WaterAce WA33CPED is considered the best small sump pump. It is a pedestal pump that can pump up 3480 GPH with its 1/3 HP motor.
The WaterAce WA33CPED Pedestal Pump is an above-ground sump pump designed for basement sumps. It features a top-mounted adjustable float switch and can pump 3/8-inch solids. The pump has a 1-1/2 inch FNPT discharge and is powered by a 115-volt capacitor motor.
Pump Features
- Top-mounted float switch design
- Can drain 3/8″ solids
- 115-volt motor
- Weight just under 20 pounds
- Cast iron exterior
- Drains 3480 GPH
- Vertical float switch
Pros
- High-powered 1/3 HP pump
- Adjustable float switch
- Able to pass 3/8″ solids without damage
- Solid Handling
- Durable Construction
Cons
- Keep an eye out for rust on the shaft
- Noise Level
Best Thermoplastic: WAYNE RSP130
The WAYNE RSP130 is made of an exterior thermoplastic shell to protect the interior 1/3 HP motor.
The WAYNE RSP130 offers homeowners a Corrosion resistant, sealed thermoplastic sump pump at an affordable price.
The pump has many of the same features as more expensive pumps, like debris screening and 1-1/12 in. NPT discharge without the larger price tag.
Built-in the US, the RSP130 can pump up to 3060 gallons of water per hour with its 1/3 HP, 100-volt motor.
Pump Features
- Thermoplastic construction
- Fully submersible
- Activated by Piggyback tether float
- Pumps max 3060 gallons per hour
- Debris screen
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible
- Weight: 6.7 pounds
- Size: 9.5 x 9 x 12 inches
- Material: Thermoplastic construction
- Motor: 1/3 horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 3060 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- Make sure the float switch keeps working
Best Backup: Zoeller Aquanot 508
The Aquanot 508 from Zoeller is an all-in-one pump system with a backup pump and alarm.
If you need a fully assembled, ready-to-install sump pump with a battery backup to protect your basement from water damage during a power outage, the Zoeller 508 is a must-buy.
The Zoeller 508 includes the Model 53 pump and Model 508 backup pump and the critical power system, valves, float switches, and piping. It also has an alarm system, so you know when the backup is active.
Pump Features
- M53 and 508 pump system
- Fully assembled sump pump and backup pump
- High Water, Reverse Polarity and Low Battery alarms
- Solid state controller with alarm and warning system
- Backup pump powered by 1 12 Volt battery
- 3-year limited warranty
Pros
- Pump Type: Submersible Sump Pump and Backup
- Weight: 43.1 pounds
- Size: 8.5 x 8.5 x 10.5 inches
- Material: Cast Iron
- Motor: 1/3 horsepower
- Maximum Flow Rate: 2700 Gallons Per Hour
Cons
- More expensive than just a single pump
Types of Sump Pumps
Submersible Sump Pump
In the pit, or sump basin, that is located beneath the basement floor, submersible sump pumps are completely submerged. The pump’s sensor is activated after the pit reaches a predetermined water level, which starts the water removal procedure and switches on the pump.
Because the motor is inside the pump, this sort of sump pump is usually quieter than other types of sump pumps, but it costs more than other pumps.
Pedestal Sump Pump
Sump pumps on pedestals draw water from a basin level with your basement floor and empty it into a drainage area in your yard.
They are less expensive than submersible sump pumps, but because their engine is outside the machine, they are noisy.
Battery Backup Sump Pump
Battery backup sump pumps have a backup pump that is powered by batteries that turns on when the primary unit can’t operate because of a power loss, unlike submersible and pedestal types that run exclusively on energy through a power cord. The backup pump’s battery can normally hold a charge for a few hours. This is adequate for brief surges, but if the battery is pumping a lot of water for several hours straight, it will eventually expire.
Combination Sump Pump
Combination sump pumps can operate in all conditions since they incorporate the backup battery of battery versions as well as the pedestal and submersible models’ power cords. Similar to submersible sump pumps, they often sit in a basin beneath the floor, but because they are larger, you can’t utilize the basin you excavated for your previous submersible sump pump for your new combination sump pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the purpose of a sump pump?
A sump pump is often installed in a basement to reduce risk of damage from serious basement flooding and to provide additional peace of mind. When the water level in your basement rises, the device pumps the water out and pumps it away from your house.
What is the best sump pump to buy?
In most cases the best pump to buy for homeowners will be the Zoeller M53 Mighty Mate.
How do I choose the right sump pump?
Start by reviewing how much water you will need to pump as well as other information like drain line size then shop for pumps in your price range.
Does sump pump requires maintenance?
Sure. Keeping your pump in good working order is not difficult and it does not take very long. You can see this guide here.
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