The Best Sump Pump for Home, Yard, Pool, Spa + Buyers Guide

The Best Sump Pump Buyer’s Guide

Picking the wrong sump pump can be costly if the pump doesn’t do what is expected of it. However, choosing the best sump pump for home use can be challenging.

Homeowners must understand why and how the pumps are properly used to get the best buy for their money.

Just buying from the best sump pump brands will usually provide the best quality sump pumps. However, choosing the best sump pump money can buy requires that the pump is made for the purpose it is needed. Blindly spending more money doesn’t guarantee the pump will be best suited for the job.

I do not have one preferred brand. Rather I use my experience and my research of customers experiences to pick the best sump pump.

I will explain what sump pumps are and what they do. Plus, I’ll explain the different types of sump pumps and their uses.

Do I Need a Sump Pump in My Basement?

The Need for Crawl Space Sump Pumps

The wood that holds up the house walls and floors are directly over the crawl space. Humidity and moisture from humid air, snow melt, rainwater, and condensation will cause wood rot. Also, mold and fungus growth are very likely to occur.

Additionally, the wiring, plumbing and HVAC systems are within the crawl space. All of these systems can get moldy or damaged by moisture and flooding. Something bad will happen if you let it.

Flooded Homes from City Sewers and Watermains

I live in a large city and I remember several water main breaks that flooded several homes or businesses nearby.

Also, when the city sewer system has a blockage for any reason, raw sewage can be pushed into basements. It will enter the house at the lowest sewer floor drain. Then it may also back up into toilets and sinks.

 A basement sump pump won’t prevent these problems but they will help reduce the amount of damage.

Submersible Pumps

Overall, these are the best sump pumps for homes. That’s because they are very durable and long-lasting. Also, they are very easy for DIY installation or pump replacement.

This pump sits in the bottom of the sump basin or sump pit. The water that covers them helps to keep the pumps running cool. Cast iron pumps dissipate heat better than plastic covered pumps.

Submersible pumps are quieter than pedestal pumps.

Also, submersible sump pumps are more expensive than pedestal sump pumps, but are well worth it.

The Superior Pump 91250 shown below is a submersible utility pump and is not suited for use in basement sump basins. That is because it is turned on when plugged in and turns off when unplugged. However, it has many other uses. Such as draining hot tubs, spas, window wells etc.

Related article: Best Small Submersible Water Pumps Comparison Buyers Guide

Pedestal Type Pumps

Perhaps the best benefit of a pedestal pump is that a smaller sump basin can be used. Which will save money when buying the basin. Also, these pumps take less floor space than submersible sump pumps. Although now there is more pump that is visible above the floor.

These are less expensive because most of the pump stands above the floor. Therefore, less waterproofing of parts equals a lower cost.

However, the impeller is at the end of a long shaft. Which creates more wear and tear on the pump. Resulting in a shorter lifespan. Additionally, the longer shaft is not able to be mounted with larger horse powered motors. So, if a lot of water must be pumped quickly, buy a submersible sump pump.

Also, since the motor is above the sump pit, there is more noise. These pumps tend to overheat more than submersible sump pumps. That is because the motor isn’t being cooled by the water.

Related article: Pedestal Sump Pump Buyers Guide: 18 Pumps Compared 2024

Multi-Use Utility Pumps

These submersible pumps are portable and can be used anywhere there is electrical power.

Many utility pumps for home use are used to drain flooded basements, backyards, window wells, etc.

Additional uses include draining pools, spas, and hot tubs. Although they could be used to water a garden, wash the car, or keep water flowing in a pond.

They can be quite small. Such as draining aquariums or transferring water from one container to another. Or quite large. Such as diesel motored pumps that are commonly used by contractors.

Shown below is an automatic utility pump that turns on at 1-3/4 inch and turns off at 1/2 inch depth. The Wayne EEAUP250 1/4 HP multi-use utility sump pump removes 2350 gallons per hour at a 5 foot lift height and 1600 gallons at a 10 foot height.

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Backup Sump Pump Systems

There are five types of back up sump pump systems.

1. Two sump pumps in the same sump basin or separate basins.
2. Battery backup
3. Inverter backup
4. Generator backup
5. Water powered backup

There are pros and cons to each of these.

Choosing The Best Emergency Backup Sump Pump Options

The best sump pump backup system would include two sump pumps, a battery or inverter backup, plus a water powered backup system.

The least expensive option is installing two sump pumps in the same sump basin or in separate basins. If the first pump fails the second pump will operate. That is if the house still has electrical power.

If the electric power fails the pumps won’t operate. Now a battery, an inverter, a generator, or a water powered backup is needed.

Shown below are the Red Lion RL-SC33DUP and RL-SC33DUP 1/3 HP sump pumps. They are a great choice if a battery backup isn’t wanted.I really like these Dual Automatic Cast Iron Sump Pumps because the second pump has the same pumping power as the primary sump pump. Most other backup sump pumps have a smaller backup pump. However, and this a big however, this is not a battery backup system. So if the power goes out, you better have a generator available. Or add a battery and an inverter to power these pumps when the power goes out.

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The best generator for sump pump backup would be big enough to run all of the critical electrical systems of house. Afterall the furnace, air conditioner, refrigerator and water heater need to work also.

The next best choice is the inverter powered sump pump backup. It acts like a deep cycle car or boat battery but without the chemicals.

Shown below is the PumpSpy 2000W Primary Sump Pump Backup Power System. It will supply two primary (AC powered) sump pumps when the household power is off. For example the two Red Lion RL-SC33DUP sump pumps shown above.

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Next, the most common backup is a No products found. that is used in boats and solar electric storage systems. These will keep the sump pump running for about four hours of usage. Obviously, a standby generator is needed for longer power outages.

Finally, the water powered sump pump backup system doesn’t need any electricity. It uses the city supplied water pressure to suck water out of the sump basin. This will dramatically increase the water bill. Fortunately, it should rarely be needed. However, when everything else fails this will still be working.

Also, the water powered sump pump has few moving parts, which makes it very dependable.

However, if a large flow of water enters the drain tile system this might not be able to keep up.

Shown below is the Basepump HB1000-PRO Premium High Volume Water Powered Backup Sump Pump with Water Alarm. It will pump 900-1400 GPH at 10 feet of lift. The actual volume depends on several factors. The most important being the amount of water pressure that the city supplies to the house. The next bigggest factor is that it needs a 3/4 inch diameter pipe that supplies the city water to the pump.

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Best Sump Pump Brands

Three USA made sump pump brands stick out from the crowd. Partly because they are the oldest and produce the most models. With age comes marketplace experience that tells them what customers want. Also, the companies have invested for many years to provide the best quality and dependability possible.

Zoeller Pump Company

This family-owned business was started in 1939 and has their factory in Louisville, KY. Many plumbers recommend Zoeller pumps to their customers. After all, local plumbers want your continued business. So, they recommend products that are dependable.

The Zoeller company sells pumps in more than 50 countries. Which means they have earned the trust of customers worldwide.

Wayne Water Systems

They design and build all kinds of pumps in Harrison, Ohio. Since 1940 WAYNE has been inventing better ways to make pumps. They have received more than 24 patents by researching better ways to make your pump selection better.

Superior Pumps

Superior Pumps is a family-owned business. It evolved from a family of plumbers starting in 1885. They are located in Minneapolis, Minnesota and have been building water pumps since 1999. They specialize in residential and light-duty commercial pumps. So, if you need a water pump for the home or business, they have what you need.

Related article: Best Sump Pump Brands Compared by Features and Benefits

Best Sump Pump for Basement and Crawl Space Under the House

The best sump pump system for basement use is usually the best for use under the house too.

1/3 HP Zoeller M53 Cast Iron Submersible Sump Pump. 

This pump has a vertical float switch which can be used in a narrow sump basin without getting “pinched”. The Zoeller M53 is probably the most plumber installed sump pump. That is because Zoeller’s reputation for quality and dependability is what homeowners require.

The cast iron parts are durable, quiet running, and dissipates motor heat better than plastic bodied pumps. Which makes them some of the best sump pumps available.

The clog-free impeller can pump out ½ inch sized objects. So, nothing should ever get stuck and stop the flow of discharged water. Which is just one reason why it comes with a 3-year warranty.

Shown below is the 1/3 HP Zoeller M53 sump pump for basement or backyard. It pumps about 34 gallons per minute at a 10-foot head height. Which is what most basements require. However, in a crawl space the pump can remove much more water due to a lower head height.

Zoeller M53 Features

Automatic Submersible Sump Pump

• Best for normal water pumping requirements to keep homes dry.

Cast Iron Motor & Pump Housing, and Switch Case.

• Cast iron removes heat from the motor faster than plastic housings. Which increases the life of the motor.

Engineered Thermoplastic Base

• Reduces weight for easier handling, but is durable for many years of use.

Thermally Protected Motor

• Prevents overheating of the motor that would otherwise require pump replacement. The motor housing is filled with a protecting oil and is hermetically sealed for long motor life.

Carbon & Ceramic Shaft Seal

• Optimum protection provides the maximum pump life.

Related article: Zoeller M53 Sump Pump Review. Best Value, Clog Free, Reliable

Best Cast Iron Sump Pump

Liberty 257 Sump Pump . 1/3 HP Cast Iron Submersible Sump Pump

This sump pump provides excellent value for the money. It is possibly the second most commonly plumber installed sump pump.

Some customers have said that the Vertical Magnetic Float (VMF) Switch is longer lasting than other brands. Which is a big deal because better reliability equals fewer expensive repairs and fewer headaches.

Unique Features of The Liberty 257 Sump Pump

• The 1/3 hp 115V motor only uses 5.2 Amps. Which is about 40% less than competitors. This equates to saving 40% on the electric bill.
• A one-piece cast iron body eliminates the need for a motor housing seal ring. That means better reliability and durability.
• The quick-connect power cord permits replacement of the cord in seconds. Plus, removing the 16-gauge power cord does not break the seals on the motor.
• Can be used in sump pump basins that are just 10 inches wide.

More Features of The Liberty Sump Pump 257

• Automatic submersible cast iron sump pump
• Vertical Magnetic Float (VMF) Switch outlasts the competition.

• Vortex impeller does not clog – even passes ½ inch diameter rounded objects.
• Has a thermal heat protection feature that prevents the motor from overheating.
• Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) for easy starting and low voltage draw upon starting up.
• Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association (SSPMA) certified
• .
• The upper & lower ball bearings are permanently lubricated and sealed. That provides a longer lasting pump because the motor runs smoother. Also, smooth running motors create less heat which increases pump life.
• The cast iron pump housing is epoxy powder coated to prevent rust.
• Made in Bergen, New York USA
• 3-year warranty. Many other sump pumps only have a one-year warranty.

Best Pedestal Sump Pump – Non-Submersible

1/2 HP Zoeller M84 Pedestal Sump Pump

Pedestal sump pumps are somewhat less expensive than submersible pumps because they require less waterproofing. That is because the motor is outside of the sump basin. Where the motor is air cooled instead of water cooled.

Made of cast iron for durability. Which is very important when pumping water with a high mineral content.

Also, the upper sleeve bearing is permanently lubricated, which also provides pump durability.

The vertical float switch enables precise pump on and pump off switch positioning. That permits the optimum run time to prevent short cycling and maximum water removal.

This pump is called “Old Faithful” by plumbers and homeowners. The Zoeller 84-0001 84 Pedestal Pump is great for narrow sump pump basins.

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Pedestal sump pump’s motors are noisier than submersible pumps. However, the lower bronze bushings provide smooth quiet operation.

Zoeller M84 Pedestal Sump Pump Features

• This is the original type of sump pump for basements. It is still preferred by many homeowners. That is because they are easy to repair without having to enter the dirty sump pit.

Vertical Float Switch Is Adjustable

• Easily adjust the optimum run time based upon the size of the sump basin. Which prevents short cycling and extends the life of the pump.
• Adjust the factory set “pump on” from 9 inches up to a maximum of 16 inches. Also, the “pump off” setting can be as low as 4 inches.

Energy Efficient Motor Saves Money

• This ½ horsepower motor only uses 7.3 Amps which will keep the electric bill as low as possible.
• The thermal overload protection feature will automatically reset itself. This will enable the pump to last for its expected lifetime instead of burning out. The pump is air cooled. If the pump keeps getting too hot, use a small fan to cool it off.

No-Clog Super Tough Plastic Vortex Impeller

• Doesn’t have any screens to worry about plugging up with dirt or lint. The impeller creates a vortex in the water below the impeller. So, the discharge water barely contacts the impeller. Which means long life and no clogs.

Cast Iron Construction of The Pump Housing & Base

• Cast iron can withstand the abrasion caused by dirt, sand, and hard water minerals.
• The plastic PVC pipe column is sturdy, rust free, and light weight. Which makes the pump easier to handle when installing or replacing.

Related article: Zoeller M84 Pedestal Sump Pump Review (Zoeller 84-0001)

Best Smart Sump Pump

WAYNE - 3/4 HP Basement Guardian  Halo™ Smart Submersible Sump Pump. Model: Halo75

It will actually tell you when to replace parts or the pump before they fail. No more wondering if the pump is working properly while on vacation. Just check your cell phone to get reports in real time. Also works with Alexa.

Features Of the WAYNE Halo75

• Monitors and tracks pump operation. Sends notifications if parts are likely to fail soon or have failed.
• Works with Apple IOS & Android Apps and with Alexa.
• Pumps 4620 gallons per hour at a 10-foot lift height.
• 3/4 HP pump is thermally protected to protect from the motor burning out.
• Stainless steel and cast-iron parts are epoxy coated for long life.
• Assembled in the USA from some USA parts and some foreign parts.

Best Smart Backup Sump Pump

No products found. Fit 12-volt DC Battery Back-up Sump Pump System with Built-in Wi-Fi for Z Control Cloud Connectivity

This system is to be added to an existing primary sump pump. Also, a battery must be purchased separately to make this system work.

Zoeller’s proprietary Z Control Cloud Connectivity App is a huge upgrade from earlier versions. It allows homeowners to use a mobile phone to monitor the system. Including testing the system and resetting (silencing) alarms.

The Zoeller 508-0014 Aquanot Fit 12-volt DC Battery Back-up Sump Pump System is an excellent choice to add to an existing sump pump.

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The Fit controller provides automatic battery charging. Also, including a low battery indicator and alarm. Built-in Wi-Fi is also included.

Features Of the Zoeller 508-0014 Aquanot Smart Backup Sump Pump

• Mobile App permits easy control of pump functions. Provides email, text, and push notifications of alarms and alerts.
• Aquanot® Active 508 DC Controller w/ Z Control® and Wi-Fi includes self-testing technology.
• Pumps 35 GPM at a 10-foot lift height.
• Works with existing submersible and pedestal sump pumps.
• Includes the backup sump pump, 2 discharge check valves, pipe tee and adapter for easy installation.
• Automatic battery charging system will not overcharge the battery.
• No fees to use the Z Control Cloud app.
• If the Wi-Fi isn’t operating (power outage), there will be an audible alarm at the pump.
• The alarm can be silenced (reset) through the app or by a button on the controller.
• Built in Louisville, KY
• 3-year warranty.

So, stop worrying about the basement being flooded and No products found.

Best Combination Sump Pump

No products found. – 1/3 HP Combination Primary & Battery Backup Sump Pump System

In my experience having a backup sump pump is a necessity rather than an option. Pumps seem to fail at the worst times and the battery backup provides time to fix the problem.

The primary pump operates on household current and can pump 3,000 gallons per hour. If it fails or is over loaded by too much water, the battery backup pump will start up. It can pump 2,400 gallons per hour. Those pumping volumes are for a 10-foot head height (pumping height).

Installation is easy because everything is pre-assembled.

The PS-C33 pump controller system will detect and notify the homeowner if any of these situations occur:

• The backup pump was activated. Which means that the primary pump failed, or too much water was entering the sump basin.
• When the household power goes out. It will notify that the battery backup sump pump has started.
• Problems with the backup battery. Such as: The battery is defective or battery power is “dead”. The battery terminals need cleaning or the fluids are low.

• The backup pump was activated. Which means that the primary pump failed, or too much water was entering the sump basin.
• When the household power goes out. It will notify that the battery backup sump pump has started.
• Problems with the backup battery. Such as: The battery is defective or battery power is “dead”. The battery terminals need cleaning or the fluids are low.

Homeowners can have alarm notices sent to an auto dialer or home security system.

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The well-known and respected Basement Watchdog brand is manufactured by Glentronics, Inc. and has a three-year warranty.

Not included is the No products found.. Buy one battery if power outages are short lived. Meaning 7 hours constant use or 24-36 hours occasional use.

However, if long power outages are expected buy two batteries.

Features Of the No products found.

Keeps The Basement Safe from Flooding

• Primary pump and battery backup sump pump.
• The battery backup sump pump starts automatically. Either when household power is off or when excess water overflows the primary pump.

DFC1 Monitoring System

• Determines when any part of the system is not operating correctly and sounds an alarm.
• When the “power outage” alarm sounds, the noisy alarm can be turned off until power resumes.
• Alarm signals can be connected to a home security system or auto dialer.
• Automatically keeps the backup battery charged and ready for use.

Included In the Pro Series PS-C33 Combo System

• Primary Sump Pump. 1/3 HP pumps 3,000 GPH at a 10-foot lift height.
• 12V Battery Backup Pump. Pumps 2,400 GPH at a 10-foot lift height.
• Primary pump controller DFC1
• Backup system controller and battery charger. Also, battery electrolyte fluid sensor.
• Battery Box. Purchase the battery separately.
• Four float switches. Two for each pump provides extra safety if the first switch fails.
• Two 1.5-inch check valves and rubber union fittings.
• Sump Foot™ pump stand to keep the pumps off the bottom of the sump basin. Which keeps the pump from sucking up dirt and small stones.

Best Heavy-Duty Sump Pump for Basement, Yards, Effluent, Light Commercial Use

1/2 HP Zoeller M95 Submersible Sump Pump

This is part of the Zoeller Premium Series sump pumps which are made to the highest standards. That means reliability comes from their improved and best pump switches. Also, cast iron and stainless-steel parts.

At a 10-foot head height this pump provides about 67 gallons per minute. That is enough for probably any big house, or houses with large amounts of water entering the basement.

The Zoeller M95 is also used in commercial settings. It can handle water temperatures up to 130 degrees F.

Zoeller M95 Sump Pump Features

1/2 HP Motor

• Permanent Split Capacitor start up.
• Operates on 115 volts and spins at 3450 RPM in a protective oil bath.
• Uses just 10.5 Amps to keep electric bills lower.
• Best warranty.

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Cast Iron Construction for Durability

• Importantly, the motor and pump housing, pump base and the switch case are cast iron. Which is why there is a five-year warranty.
• Cast iron removes heat from the motor faster than other materials. This is one reason for the pump’s long life.
• The powder-coated epoxy finish on the cast iron prevents rust.

5-Year Limited Warranty

• The up-graded float switch and cast-iron parts are responsible for the pump’s long life.

Premium Vertical Switch Mechanism

• The 2-pole mechanical switch lasts much longer than the standard Zoeller pump switch. Providing long lasting reliability.
• A Viton® Switch Boot is part of the improved switch mechanism.

Related article: Zoeller M98 Sump Pump Review 1/2 HP Effluent and Dewatering

Best Sump Pump To Drain A Large Pool Fast

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Pumps about 3500 gallons per hour at a 10 foot lift height. Pumps water down to a 2 inch depth. Which is great if needing to reset the chemical balance within the water.

For maximum flow rate, a 1.5 inch hose will be needed. Other hoses that will fit on the pump are one inch and 1.25 inches.

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Shown below is the Professional EZ Travel Collection Submersible Drain Pump and 25′ Water Hose. It provides a maximum 2000 gallons per hour. So, it will pump less depending upon the depth of the pool. It will leave about 2 inches of water in the pool.

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Best Sump Pump To Drain A Hot Tub, Spa, Small Pool

No products found. removes 1190 gallons per hour at 5 foot lift height and 1010 gallons per hour at a 10 foot lift height.

Starts pumping at a 3/16 inch water depth and drains water down to 1/16th inch to get practically all of the water out. Unlike many pumps that only pump down to 3/8 inch or even 2.5 inches.

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Best Pool Cover Sump Pump

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Will drain water down to 3/4 inch depth and automatically shut off.

Comes with a waterproof power cord connector to use with an extension cord.

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Related articles:

How to Get Water Off Pool Cover Using Pool Cover Pumps

Sump Pump Draining into Yard? Why? What Can I do About it?

Do I Need a Backyard Sump Pump with a Dry Well or French Drain?

Sump Pump vs French Drain System for Yard: Do I Need Both?

Why Is My Sump Pump Alarm Going Off? Stop the Beeping!

Sump Pump Cover Ideas: Hide a Sump Pump in The Basement