Sump Pump Shopper's Guide: Tips for Choosing the Right Model

A sump pump is a device used to remove water from a sump basin, which is a pit in the ground that collects water. Sump pumps are typically used to prevent flooding in basements or other low-lying areas. When the water level in the sump basin rises, the sump pump turns on and pumps the water out of the basin and away from the home.

Sump pumps are an important part of any home’s flood protection system. They can help to prevent flooding, which can cause extensive damage to a home and its contents. Sump pumps are also relatively inexpensive to purchase and install, making them a worthwhile investment for any homeowner.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a sump pump. The first is the size of the sump basin. The sump pump should be sized appropriately for the size of the basin so that it can effectively remove water from the basin. The second thing to consider is the type of sump pump. There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible sump pumps are placed in the sump basin and are completely submerged in water. Pedestal sump pumps are placed outside of the sump basin and are not submerged in water. The third thing to consider is the power source of the sump pump. Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or by a battery. Electric sump pumps are the most common type, but battery-powered sump pumps can be useful in areas where there is a risk of power outages.

1. Size

The size of a sump pump is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing one. The size of the pump will determine how much water it can remove per hour, which is measured in gallons per hour (GPH). The GPH rating of a sump pump will tell you how many gallons of water the pump can remove in one hour. The higher the GPH rating, the more water the pump can remove.

• Matching GPH to Square Footage
  The GPH rating of a sump pump should be matched to the square footage of the area that the pump will be protecting. A general rule of thumb is to choose a sump pump with a GPH rating of at least 1,000 GPH for every 1,000 square feet of space.
• Considering Basement Size
  The size of the basement will also affect the size of the sump pump that you need. A larger basement will require a larger sump pump with a higher GPH rating.
• Head Height
  The head height of a sump pump is the vertical distance that the pump can lift water. The head height will determine how high the pump can discharge water away from the home. The head height of the pump should be matched to the height of the discharge pipe.
• Discharge Pipe Size
  The size of the discharge pipe will also affect the size of the sump pump that you need. A larger discharge pipe will require a larger sump pump with a higher GPH rating.

By considering all of these factors, you can choose the right size sump pump for your needs.

2. Type

The type of sump pump is another important factor to consider when purchasing one. There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal.

• Submersible Sump Pumps
  Submersible sump pumps are placed in the sump basin and are completely submerged in water. They are the most common type of sump pump and are generally less expensive than pedestal sump pumps. Submersible sump pumps are also more efficient than pedestal sump pumps, as they do not have to lift water as high. However, submersible sump pumps can be more difficult to install than pedestal sump pumps.
• Pedestal Sump Pumps
  Pedestal sump pumps are placed outside of the sump basin and are not submerged in water. They are more expensive than submersible sump pumps, but they are also easier to install. Pedestal sump pumps are also less efficient than submersible sump pumps, as they have to lift water higher. However, pedestal sump pumps are less likely to clog than submersible sump pumps.

The type of sump pump that you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget.

3. Power source

The power source of a sump pump is an important factor to consider when purchasing one. Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or by a battery. Electric sump pumps are the most common type, but battery-powered sump pumps can be useful in areas where there is a risk of power outages.

Electric sump pumps are less expensive to purchase and operate than battery-powered sump pumps. However, they are also more likely to fail during a power outage. Battery-powered sump pumps are more expensive to purchase and operate than electric sump pumps. However, they are also more reliable during a power outage.

The best power source for a sump pump will depend on the specific needs of the homeowner. If the homeowner lives in an area where there is a high risk of power outages, then a battery-powered sump pump may be a better choice. However, if the homeowner is on a budget, then an electric sump pump may be a better choice.

4. Features

The features of a sump pump are an important consideration when purchasing one. Some of the most common features include:

• Automatic shut-off: This feature automatically turns off the pump when the water level in the sump basin drops below a certain level. This helps to prevent the pump from running dry and burning out.
• Built-in alarm: This feature sounds an alarm when the water level in the sump basin rises above a certain level. This can alert the homeowner to a problem with the pump or the sump basin.
• Check valve: This feature prevents water from flowing back into the sump basin after the pump has turned off. This helps to keep the sump basin dry and prevents the pump from having to work harder to remove water.
• Float switch: This feature turns the pump on and off as the water level in the sump basin rises and falls. This helps to keep the water level in the sump basin at a constant level.

The features of a sump pump can have a significant impact on its performance and reliability. When choosing a sump pump, it is important to consider the features that are most important to you.

For example, if you live in an area where there is a high risk of power outages, you may want to choose a sump pump with a battery backup. If you have a large basement, you may want to choose a sump pump with a high GPH rating. And if you are on a budget, you may want to choose a sump pump with fewer features.

By considering the features of a sump pump, you can choose the one that is right for your needs.

FAQs

Before purchasing a sump pump, consider these frequently asked questions to ensure an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences.

Question 1: What factors should I consider when selecting a sump pump?

Answer: When choosing a sump pump, key factors to consider include the size of the area being protected, the pump’s capacity measured in gallons per hour (GPH), the discharge pipe size, and the vertical distance the pump must lift water, known as the head height.

Question 2: What are the different types of sump pumps available?

Answer: Sump pumps come in two primary types: submersible and pedestal. Submersible pumps operate while fully submerged in the sump basin, while pedestal pumps are situated outside the basin.

Question 3: How do I determine the appropriate power source for my sump pump?

Answer: Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or batteries. Electric pumps are more common and cost-effective, but battery-powered pumps offer backup during power outages.

Question 4: What additional features should I look for in a sump pump?

Answer: Consider features like automatic shut-off to prevent dry running, built-in alarms for water level alerts, check valves to stop water backflow, and float switches to regulate pump operation based on water levels.

Question 5: How can I ensure the proper installation and maintenance of my sump pump?

Answer: For optimal performance and longevity, entrust the installation and maintenance of your sump pump to qualified professionals who can assess your specific needs and provide expert guidance.

Question 6: What are the potential benefits of investing in a high-quality sump pump?

Answer: A reliable sump pump safeguards your property from flooding, protecting your valuables, preventing structural damage, and ensuring peace of mind during heavy rainfall or emergencies.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought:

By carefully considering the factors discussed in these FAQs, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a sump pump that effectively meets your requirements and provides reliable protection for your property.

Transition to the next article section:

To further enhance your understanding of sump pumps and their significance, explore the additional sections of this article, where we delve into their importance and benefits, as well as provide a comprehensive guide to sump pump installation and maintenance.

Tips on How to Buy a Sump Pump

To ensure you choose the right sump pump for your needs, consider the following tips:

Tip 1: Determine the Capacity You Need

Calculate the square footage of the area you want to protect and multiply it by 10. This will give you the minimum gallons per hour (GPH) capacity you need for your sump pump. For example, if you want to protect a 1,000 square foot basement, you will need a sump pump with a minimum capacity of 10,000 GPH.

Tip 2: Choose the Right Type of Pump

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible pumps are placed in the sump basin and are completely submerged in water. Pedestal pumps are placed outside of the sump basin and are not submerged in water. Submersible pumps are more common and less expensive, but pedestal pumps are easier to install and maintain.

Tip 3: Consider the Power Source

Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or by a battery. Electric sump pumps are less expensive to purchase and operate, but they are also more likely to fail during a power outage. Battery-powered sump pumps are more expensive to purchase and operate, but they are also more reliable during a power outage.

Tip 4: Look for Additional Features

Some sump pumps have additional features that can be useful, such as an automatic shut-off, a built-in alarm, or a check valve. An automatic shut-off will turn off the pump when the water level in the sump basin drops below a certain level. A built-in alarm will sound an alarm when the water level in the sump basin rises above a certain level. A check valve will prevent water from flowing back into the sump basin after the pump has turned off.

Tip 5: Get Professional Help if Needed

If you are not sure how to choose or install a sump pump, it is best to get professional help. A qualified plumber can help you choose the right pump for your needs and install it properly.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

By following these tips, you can choose the right sump pump for your needs and protect your home from flooding.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

Sump pumps are an important part of any home’s flood protection system. By following these tips, you can choose the right sump pump for your needs and protect your home from flooding.

Sump Pump Purchasing Considerations

In conclusion, when selecting a sump pump, it is essential to assess factors such as the area’s size, the pump’s capacity, the discharge pipe size, and the head height. Understanding the differences between submersible and pedestal pumps, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of electric and battery-powered options, is crucial.

Additional features like automatic shut-off, built-in alarms, and check valves enhance the pump’s functionality. Seeking professional assistance from qualified plumbers ensures proper selection and installation, maximizing the pump’s effectiveness in protecting your property from water damage.