Can anyone provide advice on standard sump pump setups and recommended brands for replacement? Thank you for your help!
Asked by Tristan Sørensen 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 13, 2024
Hey, need some advice, would really appreciate any help. My sump pump has suddenly started working a lot lately after years of not doing much. I’m getting a bit worried about its age since it’s the original one that came with the house. Does anyone know if this is a common type of setup, and what kind of pump it might be? I think I might have to replace it soon. Also, thinking of getting a portable pump just in case this one craps out and I need to pump water out of the well. Any recommendations on brand or horsepower? Thanks a bunch!
You have the option to purchase them from a variety of places – hardware stores, big box stores, and plumbing supply shops. Consider getting a new float switch while you’re at it. If you live in an area prone to power outages, consider looking into battery backup pumps. It might also be helpful to speak with your local plumbing contractor.
We recently upgraded to watchdog 3/4 HP submersible sump pumps. Ours run constantly, except for in the winter (although last winter was an exception). They replaced the original 1/3 HP pedestal sump pumps that came with the house.
Having a 3/4 hp sump pump is excessively large for the typical requirements in terms of head and gpm. What is the reason behind needing such a powerful motor?
We live in an area with a high water table, so heavy rains cause our sump pumps to go off frequently. The basement used to flood before we installed them, but ever since, it has remained dry.
There are several types available, the most common being pedestal or smaller pumps with a float valve, similar to those found in toilets. Like Mike mentioned before, they are easy to find. Your pump is a smaller one with a float valve. I wouldn’t suggest getting a second one like you mentioned. If it ends up running dry, it could get damaged. The float switch is necessary.
Thank you for sharing, I really appreciate it. Having a backup pump for emergencies is a good idea to keep an eye on.
Zoeller 53 is definitely the best choice
I suggest not getting a pump with a plastic housing based on my own experience. It’s not worth it. I had to replace mine every year until I invested in a higher priced Myers cast iron pump, and it’s been working great ever since. I’ve heard that Myers cast iron pumps typically last around 15 years.
There is an alarm available that can be placed at the top of the hole to notify you of any issues. I suggest getting one, as I unfortunately experienced a flood in my basement when my alarm failed.
Can you rephrase that for me?
The Ridgid from Home Depot comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind for your purchase.
Rigid offers a 5-year warranty that requires you to cut out the UPC code from the box of your product and provide a copy of your purchase receipt. After that, you’ll need to create an account with Rigid to activate the warranty. It doesn’t happen automatically.
After having one installed, I discovered that there are water-powered pumps available that utilize water power to operate. If you have city water, this type of pump will continue running even if there’s a power outage. It’s quite an innovative idea.
Always try to invest in the best quality you can afford. I just invested in a Rigid 1/3 horsepower submersible pump from Home Depot for $199.00. Unfortunately, the pump got damaged because the exhaust pipe was bumped by my tenants and the float broke off, causing the pump motor to end up underwater. By the way, my tenants also accidentally dropped a sock into the sump pump well, clogging the pump. This resulted in a flood that damaged the sump pump, water tank, and furnace. I have already replaced the sump pump and water heater. So far, I have spent $1297.54 out of pocket. Now, I’m waiting for the furnace technicians to call me back as they search for a new motherboard. My top recommendation is to have a backup power source like a battery, gasoline, propane, or natural gas generator. If your basement is finished, consider getting a second sump pump that can be quickly swapped out during emergencies. Most sump pumps tend to fail during rainstorms when electricity is lost, and battery backups only last as long as the battery.
Purchase 2 items.
A licensed plumber installed hundreds of these, including in my home. I used the Zoeller m53 model and added a 1 1/2 check valve of the same make. The package also includes two rubber clamps, making installation a breeze. Make sure you have a 1 1/2 pvc male adapter handy, and remember to drill a weep hole. You can easily find instructions for that online. It’s a straightforward task, especially for those with some DIY experience.
If you notice a sudden wet sump, it’s a good idea to contact your water company. They have the ability to test pit water, and if they find fluoride, it could indicate a leak in the supply line. I faced this problem myself and had to replace the supply line to my house.
If you need a submersible pump, I highly suggest the Drummond 1/4 hp worry-free pump. We’ve been using it for almost two winters now and it’s still going strong! The great thing about it is that it has automatic shut-off and turn-on features, so you can relax without worrying about leaving it running.
Zoeller pumps are built like tanks