Recommendations for Your Sump Pump

When the term “sump pump” is used, “sump” refers to the hole in the floor, and “pump” refers to how the water is carried away from the home.  The pump that is used along with the sump is extremely important.  There are numerous different kinds of pumps that have varying performance levels and life expectancies.

Here are some pumps that are not recommended:

• Pedestal pumps that stick up above the floor
• Plastic pumps
• Pumps with screened inlets
• ¼ hp pumps

Pumps that stick up above the floor cannot be installed in an airtight sump and have a low capacity.  Plastic pumps hold in heat and burn out faster, making them a lower quality.  Pumps with screened inlets get clogged too easily and have a choking flow.  Lastly, ¼ hp pumps are far too small

Here are some sump pump switches that are not recommended:

• “Ball on a wire” switches
• Pressure switches

“Ball on a wire” switches need a big area to swing and can get tangled.  Pressure switches aren’t as precise and the “on level” indicator can change over time.

Here are some pumps and switches that are recommended:

• Cast iron pumps
• Mechanical float switches (float on a rod)

Cast iron pumps are quiet, stay cool, and last a long time.  Mechanical float switches are reliable and have positive on and off levels.  Also, it is crucial for the sump pump to have automatic pump switches to tell it when to turn on and off.