Distilling years of experience into an all-inclusive article about the best sump pump brands would require a book length article. So, I will highlight the distinctions of various sump pump brands to make your buying decision as easy as possible.
Table of Contents
Overall Best Sump Pump Brands
I have chosen the overall top 5 best sump pump brands. However, when you value one feature over another, a single pump from any of the brands listed may be the best brand for your needs.
The overall best sump pump brands are: Zoeller, Wayne, Superior, Basement Watchdog, Liberty Pumps.
First is the plumber prefered brand, the Zoeller 98-0001 1/2 Horse Power Model M98 Flow-Mate Automatic Cast Iron Submersible Sump Pump and Effluent Pump. This can be used in a septic tank or in the basement shower or with a drain tile system to keep the basement dry.
- 1/2 HP pump for residential sump pits or septic tanks
- Automatic model with integral float switch, 1½” discharge, passes 1/2″ solids
- Performance: 72 GPM at 5′ head, shut-off: 23′ TDH
- All cast iron construction with stainless steel guard and handle
- 100% factory tested
Second is the WAYNE CDU790 – 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump. The Wayne brand is more popular with homeowners than with plumbers.
- Indoor Use Only – This 1/3 HP WAYNE basement sump pump is perfect to keep your basement dry during heavy water flow. Whether it’s rain, snow melting, etc. WAYNE model CDU790 can pump up to 4,600 GPH to keep your basement dry.
- Tough And Durable – Corrosion-resistant epoxy coated steel motor housing and stainless steel fasteners come with a cast-iron volute that provides long life in tough sump pump applications.
- Efficient Design – The top suction design eliminates air lock and minimizes clogging from any debris in the bottom of the sump pit. Easy to install in about 15 minutes with no need to drill a weep hole!
- Additional Features – 1-1/2” NPT discharge for compliance with building codes. The vertical float switch has been tested to 1 million cycles for long-lasting use, up to 10 time more than our competitors.
- Quality You Deserve – Proudly assembled in the USA for quality you can trust. Warrantied for 3 years for dependable, efficient, & ultra-quiet performance.
The Superior Pump company is located in Minneapolis Minnesota. Shown below is the Superior Pump 92341 It is also available in a 1/2 HP version.
- 1/3 HP Sump pump moves up to 2,760 gallons per hour; pump will lift water up to 25′ of vertical height
- Rugged cast iron construction; 10-foot cord length
- Vertical float switch to automatically turn the pump on/off. Switch on and off point is 6 and 2 inches
- 1-1/2 inch NPT discharge for high capacity pumping
- Superior Pumps are Built to Last, engineered with quality components and are 100% factory tested
Next is the BASEMENT WATCHDOG Model SIT-50D 1/2 HP Cast Iron Submersible Sump Pump. It has two float ball switches. If the first float switch fails, the second one will still operate. That is a very good design because float switches are always the first thing to fail for all sump pump brands.
- Pumps 4,400 GPH at 0 ft lift; 3,540 GPH at 10 ft. to quickly empty the sump pit
- 1/2 HP energy efficient, permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor saves money on your electric bills
- Dual carbon ceramic and one Buna-N, shaft seals protect the motor from water
- 2 Floats in a protective cage for added redundancy. Protective cage prevents debris or wires from interfering with float operation
- Top discharge design and closely-mounted, adjustable caged dual float switch, it is ideal for use narrow sump pits
The Liberty pumps are known for their one piece cast iron housings which eliminates one gasket that other pumps have. This reduces the chances of the pump failing.
Also Liberty pumps generally use 40% less electricity than equivelent pumps from other brands. That will save money every time the pump runs.
- Pumps up to 34 GPM
- Maximum discharge head of 21-Foot
- 1/4-Inch solids handling
- Features a stainless steel intake plate, stainless steel rotor shaft, and stainless steel fasteners
- Includes a magnetically operated VMF switch for smaller pits down to a 10-Inch diameter
- 3/8-Inch solids handling
- Pumps up to 37 GPM with a discharge head of 5-Foot
- Maximum discharge head of 21-Foot
- Efficient motor design reduces electrical usage by up to 40-percent
- Includes a magnetically operated VMF switch for smaller pits down to a 10-Inch diameter
- Pumps up to 67 GPM
- Maximum head 37-Foot
- Quick-disconnect 10-Foot standard power cord allows replacement of cord in seconds without breaking seals to motor
- Efficient motor design reduces electrical usage by up to 40-percent
- Includes a magnetically operated VMF switch for smaller pits down to a 10-Inch diameter
What To Look for When Comparing Sump Pump Brands
Personally, I do tend to prefer the USA made sump pumps. Those companies have been in business many years and have invest in improving their products. Also, repair parts are more readily available.
Sump Pump Brands Made in the USA
Zoeller, Little Giant, Basement Watchdog, Drummond, Goulds, Liberty, Myers, Red Lion. There may be others that I have not yet researched.
One of the best sump pump brands is the Zoeller pump Company. To learn more about Zoeller, watch the video.
1/3 HP vs ½ HP Sump Pumps
Most homes need a 1/3 HP sump pump. Homes that need a ½ HP sump pump should consider that the Zoeller are built with a 20% surplus capacity than the rated horsepower. So, a 1/3 HP Zoeller pump may well equal the performance of a ½ Hp pump from another brand.
Also, the Zoeller vortex impeller helps the lower horse powered pump perform better. So, consider buying these three 1/3 HP Zoeller sump pumps.
First is the Zoeller M53 Mighty-mate sump pump. It can be used in the basement or with a French drain or in a septic tank.
- Automatic with float activated switch
- Non-clogging vortex impeller design
- Durable cast iron switch case, motor, and pump housing
- Cast iron switch case, motor, and pump housing, plastic base
Next is the longer lasting Zoeller M63 sump pump. It has a better quality switch than the Zoeller M53. So, it has a 5 year warranty instead of 3 years.
- Housing material : Cast iron
- Submersible
- Horsepower : 3/10 HP
- 1-1/2″ NPT discharge
- Maximum discharge flow : 43 gym
Many Zoeller sump pumps have plastic impellers and/or plastic bases but not the Zoeller M57. The plastic parts are lighter weight and some people think they don’t last as long as the cast iron parts. The Zoeller M57 sump pump has it’s main parts made of cast iron. Including the Switch Case, Housings, Base and Impeller. Even though the advertisement says it is stainless steel, just the handle and screws are stainless steel. The main parts of the pump are cast iron.
- 3/10 HP pump for residential sump pits or septic tanks
- 1½” discharge, passes 1/2″ solids
- Automatic model with integral float switch
- Performance: 43 GPM at 5′ TDH, shut-off: 19.25′ TDH
- All cast iron construction with stainless steel guard and handle
Gallons Per Hour (GPH) Pumped
Having the right sized pump will ensure that the pump does the job and lasts longer. Which will save money in several ways.
Pump performance is a combination of the gallons pumped and the amount of electricity needed. The Basement Watchdog and Wayne brands are good examples.
Cast Iron vs Plastic Sump Pump Housing Materials
A cast iron pump housing will last much longer than the other parts of the sump pump. But another advantage of cast iron is the weight. All sump pumps vibrate and try to move around because of it. If the sump pump moves it can force the float switch to get stuck in the “on” or “off” position. The heavier cast iron sump pumps will move less than the plastic housing sump pumps.
Zoeller pumps are very popular cast iron sump pumps. Also, Superior Pumps, Little Giant, Basement Watchdog, Barnes, Goulds, Wayne, Red Lion. Also, Liberty sewage pumps .
Plastic sump pump housings do not dissipate heat from the motor as fast as cast iron does. Thus, plastic sump pump housings tend to warp and crack from heat. Which means replacing the sump pump. Whereas the cast iron sump pumps typically only need other parts to be replaced.
Should I Buy a Manual or Automatic Sump Pump?
Most pumps are automatic but manual pumps are available. In which case they are now called utility pumps. Utility pumps can be made automatic by adding a piggyback float or electronic water depth sensor.
Vortex Impellers vs Other Sump Pump Impellers
I prefer the vortex impellers over the plain impellers.
Vortex impellers create what looks like a whirlpool or hurricane where the water is sucked up and flung out. In this way much of the water does not even touch the impeller which reduces the amount of wear on it.
Also, it permits the pump to pass larger objects, such as rocks, without breaking or jamming up. The Zoeller brand uses vortex impellers.
Also, if you need an effluent sump pump check out the Little Giant brand .
Also, the 1/3 HP Liberty Pumps 257-2 cast iron effluent pump with a 25-Foot power cord has a vortex impeller. See it here.
Float Switches Are the Most Important Feature?
No matter which sump pump brand you buy the weakest part is the on-off float switch. So, when comparing the best sump pump brands this is where to start.
There are several different types of sump pump switches. One is not necessarily better than the other depending upon what the pump is used for. Also, you will generally pay more for a better sump pump switch that lasts longer.
Not all sump pumps come with a switch. However, a switch can easily be added to the pump.
Probably all submersible sump brands have at least one pump with a tethered float switch. Separate tethered float switches can be bought to make manual pumps into automatic pumps.
Below are examples of a tethered float switch, a snap action float switch and a vertical float switch.
- AUTOMATIC SUBMERSIBLE SUMP PUMP: piggy-back tethered float switch activates pump when water level reaches 13 inches, shuts off pump when water falls down to 5 inches
- BUILT TO LAST: the Red Lion RL-SC Series features rugged cast iron housing, volute and clog-resistant impeller can handle semi-solids up to 3/8-inches
- ENERGY EFFICIENT MOTOR: 1/3 HP, 115-Volt, 4.4 Amp Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) Motor with thermal overload protection; CSA listed in the USA and Canada
- PIGGY-BACK TETHERED FLOAT SWITCH: activates pump when liquid reaches 13 inches and shuts off pump when water falls to 5 inches; can be unplugged from pump for maintenance/testing
- SPECIFICATIONS: 1/2 HP, 4300 GPH at 0-ft, 5.3 Amps, 10-ft. power cord, 28-ft. shutoff, suitable for basins 18-inches or greater; 1-1/2-inch FNPT discharge
- APPLICATIONS: automatic submersible pump designed for basement sump systems and light effluent applications
- BUILT TO LAST: heavy-duty cast iron construction for rapid heat dissipation and extended life; clog-resistant design capable of passing 1/2-inch semi-solids; CSA listed in USA and Canada
- AUTOMATIC OPERATION: snap action switch comes on when water reaches 8 to 11 inches and shuts off when water falls between 2 and 5 inches; steel rod protects switch from hitting side of basin
- SMALL FOOTPRINT: fits basins 11-inches in diameter or greater
- SPECIFICATIONS: 1/2 HP; 6.5 running Amps; 750 Watts; 115 Volts; 10-Ft. Cord; Maximum 4000 GPH at 5-Ft. Lift; 36-Ft. Shutoff; 1-1/2-inch FNPT Discharge
- AUTOMATIC SUBMERSIBLE SUMP PUMP: piggy-back vertical float switch activates when water reaches 7.25 inches and turns off when water reaches 2.75 inches; suitable for narrow sump pits
- BUILT TO LAST: the Red Lion RL-SC Series features rugged cast iron housing, volute and clog-resistant impeller can handle semi-solids up to 3/8-inches
- ENERGY EFFICIENT MOTOR: 1/3 HP, 115-Volt, 4.4 Amp Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) Motor with thermal overload protection; CSA listed in the USA and Canada
- PIGGY-BACK VERTICAL FLOAT SWITCH: activates pump when liquid reaches 7.25 inches and shuts off pump when water falls to 2.75 inches; can be unplugged from pump for maintenance/testing
- SPECIFICATIONS: 1/3 HP, 3350 GPH at 0-ft, 4.3 Amps, 10-ft. power cord, 25-ft. shutoff, suitable for basins 15-inches or greater; 1-1/2-inch FNPT discharge
Notice that the Red Lion RL-SC33V 1/3 HP Cast Iron Sump Pump (shown above) has the switch outside of the pump housing. Whereas other brands like the Zoeller M53 sump pump has an internal switch housing.
Shown below, the Zoeller M53 Mighty-mate 1/3 Hp Automatic Submersible Sump Pump, has an automatic snap action float switch with the switch being inside the pump housing.
- Residential 3 year warranty
- 3/10 hp, 9.6 Amps, 115 Volts
- Cord Length 9 Feet, Gauge 18/3
- Residential Application; 1-1/2″ NPT Discharge
Below is the Zoeller N53 Mighty-Mate Non-Automatic Submersible Pump is also called Zoeller 53-0002. It does not have a float switch, but one can be added to it.
- 1/3 H.P. motor
- 1-1/2″ NPT Discharge & Passes 2″ spherical solids
- Non-clogging vortex impeller design
- Durable cast iron switch case, motor, and pump housing
- Non-automatic.Flow Rate: 43 gpm
You can get tethered switches, vertical switches, and electronic dual sensor switches to replace or add onto manual sump pumps. Take a look at these options:
- CONTROL WATER FLOW into and out of tanks and valves with a sump pump float switch by Water Boss. This float level switch helps reduce overflow potential of light to medium amounts of suspended solids.
- HONEYWELL MICRO SWITCH ensures a high-precision sump pump switch with accurate repeatability and extended life. This water sensing switch is rated up to 13 amps or 1/2 HP and has CE and IEC approvals.
- NON-CORROSIVE CASING of the Water Boss Float for water tanks and bilge pumps is IP68 rated. Rugged polypropylene construction also makes this water level switch temperature-resistant from 32°F to 140°F.
- ADJUSTABLE TETHER of its 10-foot PVC jacketed cable makes our automatic bilge switch suitable for an array of applications. Eliminate complex automation with this sump pump replacement float switch.
- 5-YEAR WARRANTY against manufacturer defects lets you select the Water Boss Sump Pump Float Switch Replacement with confidence. This reliable float switch yields big savings in flood repair costs.
- RELIABILITY: A cycle can be defined as the vertical float switch turning the sump pump on/off, depending on whether the water level reaches the upper and lower switch point. When the water level rises, the float switch activates and turns on the sump pump to pump water out. Our sump pump switch is rated for up to one (1) million cycles.
- QUICK INSTALLATION: This vertical float switch comes completely assembled and ready to mount on the pump discharge pipe for easy and quick installation. The PumpSpy sump pump vertical float switch is a universal replacement for sump, sewage, and effluent applications. It comes with a 10′ long power cord with a piggyback plug, mounting bracket, and stainless steel hose clamp.
- AUTOMATIC PUMP OPERATION: With a vertical float switch installed, the sump pump automatically turns on and off, draining the sump basin as needed. When float switches are fully functional, no manual activation is required, and water is pumped out of the sump pit completely hands-free. 10 Amps @ 120VAC – Normally Open.
- DURABLE: We use gold-plated electrical contacts to keep the vertical sump pump float switch more resistant to pitting and wear. Advanced material technology helps reduce buildup on the switch, allowing it to operate freely without sticking.
- ABOUT US: PumpSpy provides sump pump systems that help eliminate the unknowns of a sump outage and prevents costly damage. We offer Smart Sump Pump Systems that automatically track incoming data and check that a sump pump is working correctly.
- ENHANCE PUMP EFFICIENCY: Maximize your sump pump’s performance with the HydroCheck HC6000v2’s innovative Hi-Lo dual-sensor system. This design ensures longer, efficient pump cycles, reducing wear and tear while cutting down energy consumption, potentially saving on your electric bill.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The HC6000v2 is the ultimate solution for all sump pump systems (< 15 Amps). Its versatility and straightforward installation make it an ideal replacement for any existing float switch. Say goodbye to pump compatibility issues, especially in narrow or congested pits
- ALERTS FOR PEACE OF MIND: Enjoy unparalleled peace of mind with the built-in alarms of the HC6000v2. These alarms promptly notify you of potential issues, including pump failure, high water levels, blocked discharge pipes, weak grounding, and more. Customize your alarms using the Smart Button, allowing you to mute or silence them individually.
- MAINTENANCE-FREE & ROBUST: Thanks to the HydroCheck Sensor Installation Kit, the sensors remain unaffected by minerals or debris in the water. No cleaning required. The electronic control module eliminates moving parts prone to seizing or failing, ensuring exceptional reliability.
- PROVEN ENDURANCE, TRUSTED PERFORMANCE: Crafted in the USA and supported by a dedicated customer service team, the HC6000v2 boasts a remarkable track record of durability. With more than 1 million cycles tested, this technology has garnered the trust of industry professionals for over two decades.
All brands that build pedestal sump pumps will have a vertical float switch system. Such as the Zoeller 84-0001 Old Faithful Pedestal Pump, also called the Zoeller M84. It has a vertical float where the ball slides up the rail as shown below.
- Metal enclosed, split phase motor, permanently lubricated, thermal overload protected
- Heavy-duty thermoplastic or cast iron constructed pump housing and base
- 1 1/2″ FPT discharge
- Adjustable 12″ cycle, factory set at 9″
- Max on: 16″ (41 cm); Min off: 4″ (10 cm)
Solid Switch Floats Are Better Than Hollow Ones
Zoeller Pump Company and the Red Lion brand have solid floats. So, they can’t be punctured and fill with water that stops the sump pump from turning on.
Which Vertical Float Switch Design Is Best?
Most vertical float switches are the manual type. That is where a lever is moved by the float. However, a magnetic switch appears to be more reliable. You can get magnetic switch sump pumps from the Star, Flint Walling and Liberty brands.
Snap Action Float Switches
In simple terms a snap action float switch makes the electrical connection faster than a reed switch. Faster connections mean less arching between contacts, which means a longer lasting switch. The Red Lion sump pump brand, the Everbilt brand and the K2 sump pump brands have snap action float switches.
- APPLICATIONS: automatic submersible pump designed for basement sump systems and light effluent applications
- BUILT TO LAST: heavy-duty cast iron construction for rapid heat dissipation and extended life; clog-resistant design capable of passing 1/2-inch semi-solids; CSA listed in USA and Canada
- AUTOMATIC OPERATION: snap action switch comes on when water reaches 8 to 11 inches and shuts off when water falls between 2 and 5 inches; steel rod protects switch from hitting side of basin
- SMALL FOOTPRINT: fits basins 11-inches in diameter or greater
- SPECIFICATIONS: 1/2 HP; 6.5 running Amps; 750 Watts; 115 Volts; 10-Ft. Cord; Maximum 4000 GPH at 5-Ft. Lift; 36-Ft. Shutoff; 1-1/2-inch FNPT Discharge
- Heavy-duty cast iron construction
- Handles 1/2 in. solids
- PSC oil-filled motor for continuous duty operation
- Durable, heavy-duty Cast Iron construction
- Removes water up to 4000 GPH at 0′ of lift, with a maximum lift of 26 feet
- Automatic ON/OFF Vertical Float Switch will operate in a 10” or larger diameter basin
- Includes a 1-1/2 inch Quick Connect Fitting which eliminates the need for PVC primer, glue or plumber’s tape
- Top suction design filters debris and minimizes clogging; pump handles up to 1/2 inch spherical solids
Diaphragm Switch vs Float Switch
Over the years I have owned a couple of Little Giant sump pumps. They have a diaphragm switch where the diaphragm moves up and down instead of a float. These are long lasting but the diaphragm can be damaged by abrasive water. By abrasive I mean very dirty water or very high mineral content “hard” water.
Also, since the diaphragm is constantly flexing it will eventually crack and fail.
Are Electronic Float Switches Reliable?
Some live up to their warranty and some do not. All sump pump brands have products that work great for some people but not for others. For example, hard water can crust over the sensor probes and require constant cleaning. One brand seems to have this problem, the Wayne Switch Genius sump pumps.
Also, some electronic switches can be fouled by sewage and others are not.
Whereas the Ortis adjustable electronic float switch controller does not seem to have these problems according to customers. The Ortis Electronic Adjustable Float Switch Controller with Dual Sensors is perfect for sewage pits, fish tanks, water tanks. See it below.
- NEW GENERATION: On the basis of the drain mode, our Ortis water level controller has added a water mode and 3 load running mode for you to choose, you can manully select the load running mode according to your needs. The Values are clearly displayed with LED indicators, easier to check and set for you
- HI-LO DUAL SENSORS: The hi-lo sensors uses a patented water level detection method, which keeps the electrode intact for 10 years. It is made of 304 stainless steel and is not affected by mineral or water debris. It has strong corrosion resistance and never needs to be cleaned. The height of two sensors is adjustable, you can decrease how often the pump turns on/off by adjusting the sensors in order to save energy and max your pump’s service life
- SAFE & STABLE: Ortis pump controller can completely overcome the shortcoming of the tranditional mechanical float switch which is prone to mechanical failure. Long life and small size, no moving parts in pit ensures reliability and is used in various application scenarios, stable and safe
- OVERLOAD & PUMP FAILURE ALARM: When the pump power is greater than 23A, overload protection will be activated to protect your safety. Built-in alarms will alert you in case of pump failure, blocked discharge pipe, and more
- COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with all sump pump and utility pump applications (>2Hp, 20A). It can replace any existing float switch, fits in narrow or crowded pits. Easy to install, doesn’t require any changes to your plumbing. Perfect for sewage pits, fish tank, water tank, etc
Also, the very reliable HydroCheck Sump Pump Float Switch is highly recommended.
- ENHANCE PUMP EFFICIENCY: Maximize your sump pump’s performance with the HydroCheck HC6000v2’s innovative Hi-Lo dual-sensor system. This design ensures longer, efficient pump cycles, reducing wear and tear while cutting down energy consumption, potentially saving on your electric bill.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The HC6000v2 is the ultimate solution for all sump pump systems (< 15 Amps). Its versatility and straightforward installation make it an ideal replacement for any existing float switch. Say goodbye to pump compatibility issues, especially in narrow or congested pits
- ALERTS FOR PEACE OF MIND: Enjoy unparalleled peace of mind with the built-in alarms of the HC6000v2. These alarms promptly notify you of potential issues, including pump failure, high water levels, blocked discharge pipes, weak grounding, and more. Customize your alarms using the Smart Button, allowing you to mute or silence them individually.
- MAINTENANCE-FREE & ROBUST: Thanks to the HydroCheck Sensor Installation Kit, the sensors remain unaffected by minerals or debris in the water. No cleaning required. The electronic control module eliminates moving parts prone to seizing or failing, ensuring exceptional reliability.
- PROVEN ENDURANCE, TRUSTED PERFORMANCE: Crafted in the USA and supported by a dedicated customer service team, the HC6000v2 boasts a remarkable track record of durability. With more than 1 million cycles tested, this technology has garnered the trust of industry professionals for over two decades.
Float Switches Used by Popular Sump Pump Brands
Zoeller Pump Company sells many pumps with a vertical float switch. They also sell some pumps with a tethered switch.
Basement Watchdog by Glentronics has two vertical float switches inside of a cage. Only the lower switch works until it fails and then the upper switch takes over. It uses reed switches to send signals to a control panel.
The float switch cage can be easily replaced when needed. That is because it is placed on the plastic discharge pipe close to where the pipe is connected to the sump pump.
Another positive point for the Basement Watchdog sump pumps is that they generally use less electricity than other brands.
- Pumps 4,400 GPH at 0 ft lift; 3,540 GPH at 10 ft. to quickly empty the sump pit
- 1/2 HP energy efficient, permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor saves money on your electric bills
- Dual carbon ceramic and one Buna-N, shaft seals protect the motor from water
- 2 Floats in a protective cage for added redundancy. Protective cage prevents debris or wires from interfering with float operation
- Top discharge design and closely-mounted, adjustable caged dual float switch, it is ideal for use narrow sump pits
Superior brand sump pumps have mostly vertical floats. Plus some tethered float sump pumps.
Wayne pumps have either tethered or vertical float switches or their iSwitch system . On the vertical float types, a float ball rides up and down a metal rod. However, sometimes the rod also moves upwards and can get stuck in the “on” position. The metal rod is connected to a plastic arm that activates the switch. The plastic arm might not be as durable as the metal arms from Zoeller, and other brands.
Also, there is a metal protection loop that keeps the float away from the side of the sump basin. That is an improvement over the tethered floats.
Goulds sump pumps have tethered and vertical float switch models.
Flotec vertical float switches have a metal rod that a solid float moves up and down on. Plus, that rod is connected to a metal rod that activates the switch. Solid floats cannot fill up with water like hollow floats might do. The float ball can move side to side somewhat and might get hung up even though it has a protection bar.
Flotec also has tethered float switch sump pumps.
Red Lion Sump Pumps have tethered floats, vertical floats, and snap action float switches.
Hydromatic effluent sump pump. The motor and impeller last a lifetime. However, some customers say that the diaphragm switches need to be replaced every year or two. They work off water pressure where a rubber diaphragm rises with the water and hits the internal switch.
Also, they have 1/3 HP sump pump with a tethered float switch.
Simer pumps have tethered and vertical float switches.
Shown below is the very popular and highly rated Simer 2925B Laundry Sink Pump with a 6 Gallon Drainage Tank
- Compact contained sump pump
- Easy under-sink installation
- 1-1/2″ Discharge pipe size
- Handles solids up to 1/8″
- horsepower is 1/4 HP
1-5 Year Sump Pump Warranties
Customers will pay for longer warranties because the manufacturers know how long their pumps will last. Longer lasting pumps are made with more reliable parts.
Most warranties are from the date of purchase. However, the Zoeller Pump Company has a warranty from the date of manufacture. So, if the pump has been in someone’s warehouse a long time, that warranty may be a lot shorter.
List Of Sump Pump Brands
There are bound to be some sump pump brands that I am not aware of. So, this list may be updated occasionally. Keep in mind that I simply cannot compare all of them in this article.
Acquaer (made in China)
Agiiman (origin unknown)
Aisitin (made in China)
Anbull (pool cover sump pump)
Aquamiracle by Tenyon
Bacoeng
Barnes (made in China)
Basement Watchdog by Glentronics is one of the best sump pump brands available. They have excellent backup systems which every home should have. Their headquarters are in Lincolnshire, IL USA. The company is family owned.)
Bcorld
Black + Decker (pool cover sump pump, origin unknown)
Blue Wave by Dirt Defender
Coleman
Danner
Drummond (made in USA)
Edou
Eco-Flo and Everbilt by Ashland Water Group. The Ashland Water Group is located in Ashland Ohio USA. They are responsible for the design and marketing of the Eco-Flo and Everbilt brand sump pumps. However, the pumps are made in China.
EZ Travel Collection
Fibropool
Flint Walling (owned by Zoeller)
Flotec by Pentair (Headquarters in Delevan, Wisconsin. Pumps are imported)
Fluentpower
Glentronics. See Basement Watchdog
Goulds (made in USA)
Grundfos (Headquarters are in Denmark)
Hydromatic
Jackel brand is better known for their sump pump basins, and covers. Which are high quality and easy to install. Headquarters are in Mishawaka, IN USA. Take a look at the JACKEL 1/2 HP Submersible Sewage Pump Model: JP550T shown below.
- 1/2 HP Sump Pump (Stainless Steel and Cast Iron)
- Polyethylene Structural Foam Sump Basin ( 18 x 22 in. / 20 Gal. Capacity )
- Polyethylene Structural Foam Sump Basin Cover (1.5 and 2.0 Flanges)
- 1.5 in Check Valve and Adjustable Pipe
- 4 in. Inlet Hub
Janz
Knifel
LanchezLiberty is one of the best sump pump brands because of their motors use less electricity than other brands. The sump pumps are made in the USA. The company is employee owned)
Little Giant (made in Fort Wayne, Indiana USA. Owned by Franklin Electric)
Myers by Pentair (Made in Delavan, Wisconsin USA with Headquarters in Ashland OH USA)
Medas
Ocean Blue Water Products by Robelle Industries
Patioer
Proflo
Red Lion (made in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma USA. Owned by Franklin Electric)
Ridgid (assembled in USA)
Schraiberpump
ShurFlo by Pentair (Located in Costa Mesa, California USA. Pumps are imported)
Simer by Pentair (Headquarters in Delevan, Wisconsin. Pumps are imported)
Star (owned by Zoeller)
Sunnora
Superior (Headquarters in Saint Paul, MN USA, Family owned. Made in China)
Surmountway
Tsurumi (A subsidiary of Tsurumi Manufacturing Company, Japan. Pump origin unknown.)
Valwix (made in China)
Wayne is anothe of the best sump pump brands. The pumps are assembled in Harrison, Ohio, USA. Owned by Scott Fitzer Company.
Wwahuayuan
Xtremepowerus
Zoeller is one of the best sump pump brands. Their main factory and headquarters are in Louisville, Kentucky USA where 95% of their products are made. Second factory in Taiwan where 5% of pumps are made primarily for the Asian market. Family owned.
6699 by Volcanorbuy (made in China)
Conclusions On The Best Sump Pump Brands
I spent a lot of time discussing sump pump float switches because the switches are the most likely parts to fail. For sump pumps with factory attached float switches, the tethered switch may be the longest lasting. Otherwise the electronic switches that are added onto a pump are the best choice.
To narrow down your choices of best sump pump brands consider these sump pump brands:
Zoeller Pump Company Cast iron pumps with vortex impellers are a favorite with plumbers.
Wayne probably has more happy customers than the other best sump pump brands.
Superior Pumps has over 34,700 customer reviews with an overall 4.6 star rating.
Basement Watchdog is one of the best sump pump brands They have a unique caged verticle float switch that acts as its own backup switch. Also, they are well known for having excellent backup sump pumps and batteries.
Liberty Pumps . Generally speaking, the cast iron Liberty pumps brand provides the most efficient pumps that save money by using less electricity.
Related Articles:
Zoeller M53 Sump Pump Review. Best Value, Clog Free, Reliable
Zoeller M84 Pedestal Sump Pump Review (Zoeller 84-0001)
Zoeller M98 Sump Pump Review 1/2 HP Effluent and Dewatering
Author at Best Sump Pumps
The first time I helped to install a drain tile and basement sump pump system was 1978.
Since then I have worked for a city water utility where I worked with and maintained pumps.
My rental properties and personal homes all needed sump pumps.
As a modular home dealer/builder, those new homes needed sump pumps.
I put that experience to good use by providing reliable, useful, and practical advice on buying, using, and maintaining sump pumps.
