Having a flooded basement can be devastating! It not only damages your property but the sooner you get it fixed the better the outcome. If you are reading this guide, you probably have a flooded basement or at least know someone with a flooded basement looking for a way to get out all that water out and fast!
Once you have a flooded basement, one of the best ways to get water out is using a quality basement pump. This effectively pumps the water out of your basement without any stress on you. However, before going out and buying just any old pump, you need to understand how pumps work – types of basement pumps, what to look for and additional features.
A good basement pump is an important asset which can help save your property from the damages that happen as a result of water. Even for basements not prone to water intrusion and flooding, the basement sump pump can help keep your basement dry and free from mold. Sump pumps can turn on any time water gets to a certain level and begins to pump water outside the house to a place where it does not affect the foundation.
Table of Contents
Warning
A flooded basement pump or sump pump (as others call it) is effective for taking out water from a flooded basement but it has to be done correctly. If the basement pump is used incorrectly (trying to get out all the water at once) it can damage your building.
When you have a flooded basement, you have water inside your house levelling the water pressure outside your home. If you take the water out too quickly, all internal pressure equalizing that external pressure can damage your foundations.
It is recommended that you take out one foot of water at a time with a 24-hour gap before taking out another foot of water. This way, you take out the inner water pressure without causing any structural damages to your building.
If you are looking to get a good and working sump pump for your basement, we will be taking a look at the basic characteristics of a sump basement pump and some of the best pumps you can buy.
Types of Basement Pumps
The first thing you need to consider when it comes to basement pumps is the different types of pumps. An understanding of the different types of pumps will let you know which is best suited to you and your needs. Let’s take a look:
- Submersible basement pump: the submersible basement pump is a pump designed to function in the sump basin (located below your basement floor level). This sump has a sensor which is triggered when the water level in the pit rises where it begins to pump the water out of the basement though the connected pipe. If you are considering the submersible basement pump, you should also consider the fact that you will also need to also dig a pit for the pump and this can be an added cost.
- Battery backup basement pump: the battery backup sump pump is a great choice for flooding specifically because it uses a backup battery for your basement water pumping. When storms hit, it mostly leaves homes without electricity for a while and this makes battery backup basement pumps a great choice. It can pump out up to 100 gallons of water for every single charge and this can work well until the power is restored.
- Combination basement pump: this is a basement pump which uses a backup battery and electricity for pumping water out of your basement. This is cost effective because it has a dual power source to be used based on your given situation.
Having an idea of the types of pumps is one of the first things you need to know because it greatly affects what you should probably buy. However, there are still some other factors you need to consider to make the best choice. Let’s take a look at some of them:
- Core material: different types of core materials are used for the production of the exterior and interior parts of these basement pumps. You need to make sure that you have a pump made with durable materials like steel impellers and stainless-steel bodies for better results.
- Horse Power: most sump pumps have a horse power rating from 1/3 to 1 hp. Depending on the level of flooding, you might need a pump with a higher rating.
Additional Features
- Switch type
- Screen intake
- Power source
Our Picks
Let’s take a look at the best sump pumps in the different sump type categories so you can make an informed choice on which will be the best one for your property.
1. Wayne WSS30VN Combination Battery Backup System
Sump Type: Combination pump – submersible pump with backup battery.
Key Features
- Quiet performance with thermal overload protection.
- ½ horse power electric power supply.
- Backup battery capable of pumping up to 10,000 gallons.
- 75-amp hour battery capable of lasting hours after power outage.
This is a combination pump type which can efficiently handle the pumping of water out from your basement. This ½ HP combinational sump system works perfectly for constant pumping of water (1-feet per time) and up to 10,000 gallons on the backup battery.
This is a big sump pump which can only work with a deep 16 inches pit so you have to check and make sure that it fits the basin in your basement.
Pros
✔ Compatible with a large 16-inch basin in your basement.
✔ Has a fast pump time of 5,100 gallons per hour.
✔ Capable combination sump pump system capable of using electricity and backup power for pumping.
Cons
✖ You will have to buy the backup battery as it is not included in the package.
Latest deal: Wayne WSS30VN Combination Battery Backup System
2. Eco-Flo EFSA33 Cast Iron Sump Pump
Sump Type: Submersible electric pump
Key Features
- It has a permanent split capacitor which makes it efficient for constant use.
- It works well with an 11-inch vertical basin and is fitted with anti-clogging vortex impeller design.
- 1/3 horse power cast iron design with an anti-rust coating.
If there is a sump pump you can trust, it is Eco-Flo EFSA33 cast iron sump pump because it is built and designed to last a long time. Even with the weight of this sump pump which is heavy (22 pounds), it is durable because the cast iron allows for fast and effective heat removal from the system.
The cast iron used for the design of this system also makes it possible for it to function effectively without any noise whatsoever. This is a 1/3 horse power pump and compared to other pumps with the same capacity, the pricing is quite budget friendly.
Finally, the float of this pump is designed with polyoxymethylene plastic which is one of the best materials used for sump pump floats. Overall, this is our runner up sump pump because it is powerful, effective and affordable.
Pros
✔ It functions without any noise.
✔ It is easy to install and easier to maintain.
✔ It has a built-in thermal overload motor protection.
✔ Durable and easy to maintain materials.
✔ 1/3 horse power cast iron sump pump with anti-corrosion coating.
Cons
✖ This sump pump turns off too quickly leaving up to 4-inches of water in the pit.
Latest deal: Eco-Flo EFSA33 Cast Iron Sump Pump
3. Superior Pump Utility 91250
Sump Type: Submersible electric pump
Key Features
- Stainless steel shaft seal coupled with a double sealed motor.
- ¼ Hp 10-feet power cord which is energy efficient for constant use.
- Constructed with a thermostat housing.
This is a 1 HP, all-purpose sump pump which can be used for pumping out water from basements with marble, granite, and slate floors. Even as a basement sump pump, it can be used on other floor types and even your shower allowing the easy pumping of large bodies of flooded water within five minutes.
The Superior Pump Utility 91250 is a budget pump which works well for homes with smaller spaces. Even though this sump pump is affordable, it is built to last and can be used for many different purposes.
The pump runs manually and not automatically which means that you have to plug it in only when you want to use it. For effective use, you can use this sump pump alongside a Superior Pump Universal Discharge Hose Kit for easy water discharge.
Pros
✔ Easy to install sump pump.
✔ It has a shaft steel made using jacketed steel and a motor plate which is double-sealed.
✔ Single piece thermoplastic housing.
✔ 100-foot and ¼ HP power cord which is energy efficient for constant use.
Cons
✖ Due to massive production, some of the products have a faulty build.
Latest deal: Superior Pump Utility 91250
4. Liberty Pumps 237 Series
Sump Type: Electric automatic submersible pump
Key Features
- Easy to disconnect 10-inch power cable.
- 1/3 horse power pump with a 1.5-inch water discharge line.
- Magnetic VMF switch.
This is a small but powerful sump pump great for cleaning out small-sized basements. It can also be used for crawl spaces because it is an all-purpose pump. Even though this pump is not as powerful as other high-rating pumps, it is great for places with smaller basements and also places with infrequent water issues. So, if you have water problems but not complicated ones, you can opt for the Liberty Pumps 237 Series.
This pump is designed using powder coated aluminum and an impeller (polypropylene vortex style). Even though this is not the strongest sump pump in the market, it is definitely efficient and works perfectly for smaller tasks.
Pros
✔ Easy to install sump pump.
✔ Efficient power cable easy to disconnect.
✔ Perfectly working VMF switch.
Cons
✖ Some of the units malfunction due to mass production.
Latest deal: Liberty Pumps 237 Series
5. Wayne WWB WaterBug
Sump Type: submersible vertical electric sump pump.
Key Features
When we talk about a pump that is built to last, then we are talking about the Wayne WWB WaterBug sump pump. This is the definition of a small pump designed to solve big problems (sort of like a David and Goliath scenario lol). This pump is highly efficient with a pump capacity of up to 1250 gallons connected to a normal garden hose.
The design of this sump pump is excellent with a sucking point which allows it to suck water when it’s very low which is hard for most pumps. This is a highly recommended backup pump because it is not designed for permanent use and does not automatically switch on when it senses water.
It has a long working life which makes it possible to use constantly without worrying about damages.
Pros
✔ Can be used with the standard garden hose.
✔ Can pump up to 1250 gallons of water within an hour.
✔ Working ¼ horse power lightweight design and a plastic construction.
Cons
✖ Even as a multipurpose sump pump, it should not be used for pools with chemicals.
Latest deal: Wayne WWB WaterBug
6. Wayne CDU1000 1HP Submersible Sump Pump
Sump Type: submersible sump pump
Key Features
- Durable sump pump.
- I horsepower sump pump engine.
- Stainless steel build.
Another powerful and strong pump useful for homes prone to a lot of flooding is the Wayne CDU1000 1HP Submersible Sump Pump. This sump pump is designed with a massive pumping capacity even with the 1 horse power engine. The 1.5-inch diameter allows for easy discharge of up to 10 feet of water (even though it is advised to take it one foot at a time) allowing you easily clean out your basement.
For this reason, this is one of the most efficient submersible pumps and with the stainless-steel build, there are hardly any air lock issues. The wide float on the design allows this pump turn on manually when the water reaches a certain level. The design of this sump pump allows it to work with sump pump basins with a diameter of 11 inches or more.
Pros
✔ Easy to install sump pump.
✔ Effective and easy to use.
✔ Low noise level pump even with constant use.
✔ Durable build.
Cons
✖ The metal rod holding the float needs to be handled with care.
Latest deal: Wayne CDU1000 1HP Submersible Sump Pump
7. Wayne ESP25 Upgraded 12-Volt Battery System
Sump Type: battery backup system
Key Features
- Easy to read LED display which shows backup readiness.
- Audible notification alarm.
- 75 amps battery protected from water damage.
When flooding starts and power goes out the best option for taking out water from your house is a battery backup system. Talking about backup battery sump pump systems the Wayne ESP25 Upgraded 12-Volt Battery Backup System is a 12-volt backup system which works perfectly when you need to take out water without power.
The 12v battery is a 75-amp hour battery which pumps out up to 2,700 gallons of water an hour. With the single charge this pump is capable of getting out 10,000 gallons of water. The overall construction is made using cast iron which makes it durable. The top suction design on the pump makes it easy for pumping without airlock problems.
The battery of this system is protected with a protective case and when it comes on, you have a led display and a loud sound notifying you that the pump is switched on and working.
Pros
✔ Durable and efficient cat-iron construction.
✔ Every full charge can get you up to 10,000 gallons of water pumped out.
✔ The battery is strong and protected from water damage.
✔ The pump out speed is fast with an average hourly pump speed of 2,700 gallons.
Cons
✖ Pricey pump which is far more expensive than other similar models.
Latest deal: Wayne ESP25 Upgraded 12-Volt Battery Backup System
8. Zoeller M53 Mighty-mate Submersible Sump Pump 1/3 HP
Sump Type: submersible sump pump system
Key Features
- No screen to be clogged by water.
- No sheet material which can be corroded.
- Rust-resistant epoxy finish.
- 2-pole mechanical switch system.
Submersible pumps are designed to work under water when basements are flooded and the Zoeller M53 Mighty-mate Submersible Sump Pump is one of the best in the market. This sump pump has a cast iron construction with a 1/3 hp motor capable of pumping up to 6 feet of water making it a great choice for basements with mild flooding issues.
This sump pump is very strong as it is capable of passing solids of close to ½ an inch in diameter. This pump has a thermal overload installed into it making it possible for it to work without overheating.
This sump pump deserves to be on the list not just because of the build and design but because it can efficiently take out water from mildly flooded basements.
Pros
✔ Easy to install in basements.
✔ Durable design with cast iron switch case, pump housing, and motor all covered with a plastic base.
✔ 1/3 hp motor to be used for septic tanks and sump pump pits.
✔ Float activated switch for easy use.
Cons
✖ Some of the models malfunction easily.
Latest deal: Zoeller M53 Mighty-mate Submersible Sump Pump, ⅓ HP
9. Superior Pump 92341 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump
Sump Type: submersible pump.
Key Features
- Strong cast iron construction
- Engineered with quality components.
- High-capacity discharge.
- 2760 gallon per hour pump capacity.
The Superior Pump 92341 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump is a great sump pump preferably useful for locations that do not experience heavy flooding. It is however useful for locations with water issues needing immediate evacuation. Because of the small application it is designed for small basement basins which do not easily get filled.
The 1/3 horse power motor of this sump pump is effective and far more powerful than other pumps within the same category and with the heavy dust cast iron base and housing, this motor pump up to 2760 gallons an hour.
The vertical float is automatically activated turning on when the sensor is activated. This pump has an average working-life of over 4 years serving reliably and effectively during this period.
If you need an inexpensive and effective sump pump, the Superior Pump 92341 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump is a great choice.
Pros
✔ Low budget but effective sump pump.
✔ Made for houses with smaller pits which do not get a lot of water problems.
✔ 3-year limited warranty.
Cons
✖ The vertical float keeps getting hung on the pump base leaving the pump to keep on working.
Latest deal: Superior Pump 92341 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump
10. Little Giant GIDDS-521252 12393 1/3 HP Automatic Sump Pump
Sump Type: Submersible electric pump
Key Features
- Epoxy coated iron cast housing.
- Designed for constant use.
- Designed with upper and lower sintered sleeve bearings.
The Little Giant GIDDS is an automatic submersible pump designed to function effectively without too much input from anyone. This sump pump has a 1/3 HP motor which works perfectly in a sump basin with a diameter of about 11 inches or more leaving you with little need for maintenance.
When it comes to the work rate of this sump pump, it can easily pump out large volumes of water with the diaphragm pressure switch which is engaged at about 8 to 10 inches of water. This pressure switch turns off at a water level of 1 to 4 inches leaving it to cool without you needing to monitor it all the time.
This sump pump is fully designed to function as a submersible sump pump meaning that you cannot use it for any other reason aside from draining out water from the basement.
Because it can easily allow materials which are ¾ inches in diameter, you occasionally need to take it out and clean to prevent your hose from clogging, affecting the efficiency of the system. This system has a one-year limited warranty which is lower compared to what other brands offer.
Pros
✔ Useful for commercial and residential purposes.
✔ High quality and durable sump pump.
✔ Easy to maintain because of the quality parts used.
Cons
✖ Can be a little bit noisy.
✖ Only a 1-yrear warranty.
Latest deal: Little Giant GIDDS-521252 12393 1/3 Hp Automatic Sump Pump
Conclusion
Having a flooded basement can be annoying. It practically keeps you worried about your home and how much damage the water is doing to your basement and of course home in general. However, with the help of sump pumps, it is possible to get your home back. It is possible to take out all of that water without the need to join the buckets parade which can be so stressful.
We have looked through some of the best sump pumps in the market today, what they have to offer as well as the pros and cons of each product. This should serve as a valuable guide towards making the right choice and of course getting your home back from water damages; good luck.
FAQ
Does my sump pump require regular maintenance?
Regular maintenance? No. however, for you to ensure that your sump pump works perfectly, you need to clean all of the components at least once in three months by doing the following:
- Disconnect the power source (power outlet or battery) – you do not want to get electrocuted.
- Remove the discharge pipe.
- Take out the sump pump from the pit.
- Using a sponge or moderately wet cloth, scrape off all the dirt – you can use a garden hose to take it off it it’s too dirty.
- Use disinfectants like vinegar or bleach to clean your pump.
- Clean the pit in your basement.
- Reconnect your sump pump.
Where can my pump discharge water?
Most sump pumps are connected to discharge water into your drywell or storm drain.
Why does my sump pump smell?
A sump pump can smell because of a lack of proper maintenance. When a sump pump is inactive, a lot of things like mold and algae grow on it which makes it smell a lot. To prevent this, clean and disinfect your sump pump and pit at least once in three months, and after every use.
