How to Choose Horsepower
- For most homes without too many water problems, a 1/3 horsepower sump pump is the standard. ...
- For basements with heavier flooding, we recommend a 1/2 horsepower pump which can remove about 3,000 gallons of water per hour.
- If you’re on a budget, a 1/4 horsepower pump will work. ...
How to select the best sump pump?
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Sump Pump
- Basin Space. A standard sump pump basin is 30 inches deep by about 18 inches to 24 inches across, giving it a capacity of around 26 to 30 gallons.
- Core Material. As with any motorized tool or appliance, durability is always an important factor to consider. ...
- Power Source. ...
- Horsepower. ...
- No-Screen Intake. ...
What to do with my sump pump?
Troubleshooting – What to Do If Your Sump Pump Is Not Working?
- Check the Power Source You can easily check if the socket of the sump pump is live by plugging another appliance into it. ...
- Make Sure the Float Switch Is Not Jammed A stuck float switch is a very common problem. ...
- Check the Discharge Pipe If the discharge pipe is clogged or frozen, the pump will fail to remove water from your basement. ...
How high will a sump pump lift water?
Furthermore, how high will a sump pump pump water? For most average-sized homes in areas with average water tables, a 1/3 HP sump pump should be sufficient. Typically, 1/3 HP pumps can handle 7' – 10' vertical lifts from the sump pit if they have one 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe run between 3 feet and 25 feet.
How large of a sump pump do I Need?
What size HP sump pump do I need? For most average-sized homes in areas with average water tables, a 1/3 HP sump pump should be sufficient. Typically, 1/3 HP pumps can handle 7' – 10' vertical lifts from the sump pit if they have one 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe run between 3 feet and 25 feet.
How much hp do I need in my sump pump?
1/3 HPFor most average-sized homes in areas with average water tables, a 1/3 HP sump pump should be sufficient. Typically, 1/3 HP pumps can handle 7' – 10' vertical lifts from the sump pit if they have one 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe run between 3 feet and 25 feet.
Is more horsepower better for sump pump?
Do you need more horsepower than your current sump pump provides? You do if the vertical lift off the sump pump is high, the horizontal pipe runs between 30 and 150 feet and you notice a loss of water flow. A higher HP will provide higher pumping capacity and will deliver an improved GPM.
How do I determine what size sump pump I need?
Multiply the number of inches that the water rose in a minute by 60, in order to estimate the volume of water that would come into your pit during an hour of steady rain. Multiply this number by a "safety factor" of 1.5 to figure out the pumping capacity you need.
Can a sump pump be too powerful?
You don't want a pump that is either too small or too powerful. If the pump is too small, it won't be able to keep up with water flowing into the basin. If the pump is too powerful, it will “short cycle.” This means the pump will start and stop frequently, which can cause premature pump failure.
Which is stronger 1/3 horsepower or 1/2 horsepower?
Many plumbers recommend the 1/2 horsepower garbage disposal over the 1/3 hp as it's typically better constructed and has a little more power. Although, you should keep in mind, this is still a lower powered disposal, and is only suitable for light use.
How far can a 1 hp pump push water?
A 1 HP sump pump has significant vertical and horizontal reach, making it ideal not only for residential homes but also for commercial units. These pumps deliver an average of 19 GPH and can lift water from wells that are 200 feet deep.
How strong of a pump do I need?
A good rule of thumb is that pumps should be able to pump out about half the pond volume every hour. For example, a pump that moves 500 gallons per hour would be appropriate for a 1,000 gallon pond.
Are cast iron or stainless steel sump pumps better?
Stainless steel has anti-corrosion properties, while cast iron maximizes cooling ability to better distribute heat from the motor. The interior of a sump pump is just as important.
How do I size a submersible pump?
The capacity of the pump system in gallons per minute should equal the number of fixtures in the home. This must take into account all use for the kitchen, bath, appliances, outside irrigation, a pool and special fixtures, such as a hot tub.
What is the average life of a sump pump?
about 10 yearsLike other appliances and equipment in your home, your sump pump won't last forever. Averaging about 10 years, you might not notice your sump pump has malfunctioned until it has stopped working. And once it does, water damage to your home and the belongings within it can follow closely behind.
How long can a sump pump run continuously?
six to 24 hoursGenerally, sump pumps can run for six to 24 hours continuously, depending on how heavy the rainfall is and the quality of your pump. The aftermath of torrential rains or even flooding puts a higher demand on your sump pump to keep your home's low areas dry.
Should a sump pump run constantly?
Sump pumps should not be running constantly and if they are then it is more than likely that there is a problem. If water starts to enter your basement, then this is when the sump pump kicks into life and starts the process or removing water from the basement.
Is a 1/4 HP sump pump enough?
For most homes without too many water problems, a 1/3 horsepower sump pump is the standard. It will get the job done. For basements with heavier flooding, we recommend a 1/2 horsepower pump which can remove about 3,000 gallons of water per hour. If you're on a budget, a 1/4 horsepower pump will work.
How deep should a sump pump be?
Most sump pumps and basins should be installed 3 feet deep but the exact depth depends on your local soil conditions and the amount of floodwater you expect to receive. Deeper pits can collect more water but will require a more powerful pump to drain all the water before overflowing the pit.
What is a primary sump pump?
Primary Sump Pumps. Primary sump pumps are the standard pumps found in many residences. Designed to pump seepage water out of your basement, they prevent floods. They can pump up to several thousand gallons an hour to keep your home safe and dry. There are two types of primary sump pumps: submersible pumps and pedestal pumps.
What happens if a sump pump fails?
If your sump pump system fails during a big rain event, your basement can flood in minutes, causing extensive damage to your valuables and appliances, not to mention the huge costs and headaches that come with basement flood cleanup. Learning how to get the right sump pump for your home is one of the best things you can do to protect it ...
What is a sewage pump?
Rather, sewage pumps are primarily designed to pump sewage waste and effluent from a home to a septic system. Sewage pumps can pass solids up to 2", which is one of the biggest differences between them and regular sump pumps.
What is the difference between a pedestal and a submersible sump pump?
There are two types of primary sump pumps: submersible pumps and pedestal pumps. Submersible pumps are put underwater in your sump pump basin, while pedestal pumps are positioned with the pump motor out of the water, above your sump basin. Pedestal pumps are best for small basins, as the pump base is submerged but the pump motor is not.
How many solids can a sewage pump pass?
Sewage pumps can pass solids up to 2", which is one of the biggest differences between them and regular sump pumps. Once installed, sewage pumps run automatically. They can either be installed in the septic tank itself, or in a separate pump chamber.
What is the best pump for a small basin?
Pedestal pumps are best for small basins, as the pump base is submerged but the pump motor is not. Click the link below to learn how to choose between a submersible pump and a pedestal pump.
Can sump pump be used for flood insurance?
If you've ever dealt with the aftermath of a flooded basement, you know exactly how painful that process can be. With a combination sump pump, you are protected under normal circumstances and in power outages as well. Besides flood insurance, this is the pinnacle of home flood protection.
How much water does a 1/2 HP sump pump handle?
The average home with an above average water table, will most likely require a 1/2 HP sump pump. This sized sump pumps about 35 to 40 percent more water than 1/3 HP sump pumps do. If water is higher than usual, a 1/3 HP can handle a higher vertical lift when discharging water. A 1/2 HP sump pump can handle 7 to 10 feet vertical lift off the sump pump, a 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe running between 3 and 25 feet.
Why is it important to choose the right sump pump?
It’s important to choose the right sump pump with the right amount of horsepower for your home. This will save you money in the long run. When choosing, know this: all sump pumps are not created equal and the needs for one differ for every home. The capacity to deliver water at a given flow rate varies according to:
How many feet does a 1/3 HP sump pump lift off?
The average home with an average water table needs no more than a 1/3 HP sump pump. It is the most common sized sump pump and handles most water tables easily. A 1/3 HP sump pump can handle 7 to 10 feet vertical lift off the sump pump, a 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe running between 3 and 25 feet.
Do all sump pumps have a data plate?
All sump pumps have a data plate on them. It provides the model and HP information for the sump pump. It’s best to stick with the same HP when replacing an old pump with a new one, but consider these things: – All sump pumps are not created equal. Output can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
What is a sump pump?
Sump Pumps are the most common water pump and are used to remove ground water from sump pits and transfer basement drainage to prevent residential flooding. They are available in submersible (motor inside the pit), and in pedestal (motor outside the pit) formats.
Which is better, horsepower or pump?
In general, the more horsepower, the better. Pump performance depends on how high and how fast you want to pump the water.
What is a battery back up pump?
Battery Back-Up Pumps are added in addition to your primary sump pump, and are powered off a 12 Volt battery. This completes your sump pump system and provides additional protection to remove ground water during a power outage, primary pump failure or heavy rain.
How far will you be moving water?
How far will you be moving the water? Sometimes called total dynamic head or just ‘head,’ the vertical distance you’re moving the water may be zero, up to about 25’. Check the horizontal axis of the performance chart associated with each pump to make sure it will move the water the vertical distance you require.
Do you need a battery back up sump pump?
For complete basement protection, you’ll need a WAYNE battery back-up sump pump or combination primary and battery back-up sump pump system. Let WAYNE do the hard work for you! Preassembled Primary and Back-Up Sump Pumps are ready to drop in and PROTECT!
How much horsepower does a sump pump have?
The power of a sump pump is measured in horsepower (hp). They are usually sold in increments out of 1-whole, such as .5-horsepower, .33-horsepower, or .25-horsepower. A .25-hp sump pump is a great deal weaker than a .5-hp pump, and a little weaker than a .33-hp sump pump.
How much water does a 5 HP sump pump remove?
A .5-hp sump pump removes at least 3,000 gallons of water per hour. It is one of the most powerful motors that is widely available. Although it is certainly possible to find pumps that are even stronger, there is rarely a need for the average homeowner to have a sump pump that is stronger than .5-hp. If you are still having drainage issues ...
What is a sump pump?
A sump pump is many homeowners' first layer of protection against leaks and moisture in the basement. Although sump pumps are generally simple to maintain, it can be difficult for homeowners to choose the right size pump. Everyone has different needs. Some live in homes where the foundation is below the water table, ...
Is sump pump needed in basement?
Some live in homes where the foundation is below the water table, and some live in areas that are particularly dry. A sump pump is not chosen based on the size of your home or basement, but based on the amount of moisture it will manage. The horsepower of the motor is more important than its size.
Is the horsepower of a sump pump more important than the size?
The horsepower of the motor is more important than its size. The strength of its motor, not its size, determines how powerful the sump pump is. You should decide which sump pump to buy based on horsepower. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day.
What is the most important factor when determining which sump pump is best for your application?
Horsepower is the most important factor when determining which sump pump is best for your application, and it’s used to determine how much power your pump can produce to empty your sump pit through the discharge piping.
How many feet should a sump pump run?
Typically, 1/3 HP pumps can handle 7’ – 10’ vertical lifts from the sump pit if they have one 90-degree elbow and a horizontal pipe run between 3 feet and 25 feet.
Why use float switches in sump pit?
We recommend electronic float switches because they take up less space in your sump pit and are the most reliable switches on the market. With water alarm systems, wifi-enabled kits can be purchased that connect to your sump pump and call, text, or email you if anything is going wrong with your sump pit.
Why are sump pumps important?
They are extremely useful to have because a regular beeping water alarm won't do much good if no one is home to hear it. Backup sump pump systems are your only hope of preventing a flood if you lose primary power at home and don't have a generator standing by.
Why do you need a sump pump?
Float switches, water alarms, and backup pumps are all necessary to prevent your basement from flooding, which is why you need a sump pump in the first place.
Is it better to oversize a sump pump or undersize?
There’s a saying about “bigger is better,” but with sump pumps, this is not true. Oversizing a sump pump can lead to constant cycling and premature burnout of your pump system. Under-sizing a pump can lead to the same issue, so it’s important to choose a submersible pump that most closely fits the needs of your sump pit.
When dealing with higher GPM and longer pumping distances, special attention needs to be placed on choosing a proper?
When dealing with higher GPM and longer pumping distances, special attention needs to be placed on choosing a proper discharge pipe diameter to prevent problems with higher-powered pumps.
How Does a Sump Pump Work?
Some homes with basements or crawlspaces are protected from groundwater damage by a network of drainage tubes around the foundation. These direct water into a shallow pit, or sump, where a sump pump pushes the water out and away from the house through a discharge pipe.
Types of Sump Pumps
Most sump pumps are either a pedestal or submersible type. With a pedestal pump, the motor is on a shaft above the sump, out of the water. Generally, these are a less expensive option. Because they’re not cooled by the water in the sump, there’s a greater risk they’ll overheat under extreme use.
How Much Does a Sump Pump Cost?
The cost of installing a sump pump can vary greatly depending on such factors as:
Features to Consider
Switch: All three types of switches — tethered float, vertical float and electronic — automatically turn on the pump when water in the sump reaches a certain level.
Emergency Backup Sump Pumps
All of the sump pumps mentioned so far operate on household electrical current. So what happens when the same storm that dumps 2 inches of rain around your house also knocks out the power? That’s when a battery-backup sump pump takes over.
