Sump Pump

Choosing A Sump Pump

If you have a basement, there is a good chance that you know what a sump pump is. When groundwater levels rise a basement can flood unless you have a sump. This sump is basically a small reservoir which captures these waters before they enter your basement and cause damage. A sump pump moves this water away from your home to prevent damage. Another use for sump pumps is to remove storm waters which fill up your crawl space or enter your basement. Homes in wet climates often have these installed when they are built. Protect your investment by installing a sump pump if you are concerned about water entering your basement or crawl space. Two types of sump pumps are available.

A submersible Sump Pump is a unit that fits within the basement sump and houses the motor and pump in a waterproof container. A long outlet pipe runs from the sump pump to a drainage area which should be located twenty feet or more away from the home. For around $150, you can purchase the Flotec 1/2 HP, 4680 GPH, Automatic Submersible Sump Pump, model # FPSC3200A. This pump can pump a maximum of 4380 gallons in one hour and has a 1-1/2 inch discharge pipe. Customers love this model and give it five stars out of five, commenting on how fast it removes water and its quiet operation.

Pedestal sump pumps, on the other hand, allow you to place the pump inside the sump itself while the motor sits on a pedestal so it will not get wet. Wayne offer the 1/3 HP Cast Iron Pedestal Sump Pump, model # SPV500, for just over $100. This model also offers a 1-1/2 inch discharge pipe and 2800 gallons of water can be removed in an hour. Customers rate this particular model four and a half out of five stars. Comments focus on how quickly it removes water and other uses for the pump, such as draining a washing machine if needed. Reviewers feel it is a great value for the money.

When choosing a sump pump, not only is the size of the outlet pipe important, but so is the horsepower. Your pump will only work as good as the motor which runs it. Capacity is based on this horsepower so be sure to make that a top priority when choosing your new pump. Also, be sure to check the discharge pipe as it doesn't matter how big the motor is if the discharge cannot remove what is being pumped.