Whether you have a basement that attracts rain or live in an area where water wants to enter your home uninvited, installing a sump pump is a wise decision. This equipment is your home’s silent guardian against flooding, quietly monitoring your basement with sensors and ready to act when water levels rise. When a sump pump detects trouble, it pumps water outside where it belongs.
To help you find a sump pump for your home, we’ve created this guide, which compares the best sump pumps available, explains the features that matter, and answers common questions.
Key Takeaways
- The Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility Pump stands out as the best overall sump pump due to its lightweight 6.8-pound build and water handling capacity.
- Typically, sump pumps cost between $150 and $400 for the unit itself, while professional installation can add between $750 and $1,200 to your total expense.
- When selecting a sump pump, the most important factors to consider include the unit’s horsepower and water capacity. Higher-horsepower motors can handle more water per hour, but they also consume more electricity and have a higher initial cost.
Top 5 Sump Pumps
- Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility Pump: Best Overall
- LANCHEZ Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump: Best Value
- Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Sump Pump: Best Submersible Pump
- Wayne 58321-WYN3 Submersible Sump Pump: Best Power
- Wayne WSS30VN Battery Back-Up Sump Pump: Best Battery Backup
Compare Top Sump Pumps
The table below highlights our top picks for the best sump pump options.
| Product | Image | Power | Water Capacity | Cord Length | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility PumpCheck Price | | 1/4-HP | 30 GPM | 10 feet | 7.4 pounds | 6″L x 6.5″W x 11″H |
LANCHEZ Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump PumpCheck Price | | 1/2-HP | 87 GPM | 10 feet | 16.91 pounds | 9.5″L x 7.7″W x 15.2″H |
Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Sump PumpCheck Price | | 1/3-HP | Not listed | 9 feet | 21 pounds | 10.3 x 7.8 x 10.3 inches |
Wayne 58321-WYN3 Submersible Sump PumpCheck Price |  | 3/4-HP | 92 GPM | 8 feet | 11 pounds | 12 x 8 x 8 inches |
Wayne WSS30VN Battery Back-Up Sump PumpCheck Price |  | 1/2-HP | 85 GPM | 8 feet | 37.4 pounds | 23.5 x 18.3 x 14 inches |
Our Reviews of the Best Sump Pumps
Read over our reviews of the best sump pumps below based on each unit’s capability, durability, and cost. Each sump pump is easily available on Amazon, so you can get your basement or crawlspace in order quickly.
Best Overall
Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility Pump
Good for: A homeowner in need of an all-around, high-performance sump pump to support their basement or crawlspace for the long term.
The Superior Pump 91246 is a compact 1/4-horsepower (HP) automatic utility pump designed to handle water removal in basements, crawlspaces, and other potential problem areas around your home. This unit can move up to 1,800 gallons per hour and automatically activates when water reaches approximately 1.5 inches in your home, making it a reliable hands-off solution for minor flooding issues. Built with durable thermoplastic construction and backed by a one-year warranty, this pump offers solid performance for homeowners dealing with occasional water intrusion.
Pros and Cons of Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility Pump
- Is factory-tested by the manufacturer for reliability and longevity
- Includes a 3/4-inch garden hose adapter
- Suction screen handles up to 1/8-inch solids floating in the water
- Has a weaker gallons per minute water output than some competitors
- Some users have reported issues with the unit leaking oil
Key Features
- Power: 1/4-HP
- Water Capacity: 30 gallons per minute (GPM)
- Cord Length: 10-feet
What People Are Saying About The Superior Pump 91246 Automatic Utility Pump
Customers on Amazon with varying needs found this sump pump useful, stating that it operated efficiently and quietly. Reviewers shared that the pump’s filter did a good job of preventing the unit from clogging due to dirt, debris, or algae buildup. We found that customers who were disappointed with this product wished it had lasted longer, citing issues with reliability and longevity.
Best Value
LANCHEZ Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump
Good for: Someone seeking a high-quality sump pump that offers long-lasting performance at a competitive price.
This 1/2-HP sump pump is designed for pumping wastewater and sewage rather than clean groundwater, making it suitable for basement bathrooms, laundry rooms, or other below-grade plumbing fixtures. It can move up to 5,200 GPH and lift water up to 26 feet vertically, with an automatic float switch that activates the pump when water levels rise. Built with cast iron and stainless steel construction, it includes thermal overload protection and a 10-foot power cord for reliable operation in demanding wastewater applications.
Pros and Cons of LANCHEZ Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump
- Features a highly competitive price for quality performance
- Provides a long lifespan due to its cast iron and stainless steel body
- Includes thermal overload protection for further peace of mind
- Some customers have said their first purchase didn’t perform properly, but later ones did
- Requires a deep enough sump pit, or hole in your basement floor, for automatic operation
Key Features
- Power: 1/2-HP
- Water Capacity: 87 GPM
- Cord Length: 10 feet
What People Are Saying About The LANCHEZ Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump
Customers on Amazon generally praise this pump for its performance and power, with one reviewer noting it drained a 15,000-gallon pool in under four hours. Others appreciate its quiet operation and good value. However, some users express durability concerns, with one customer saying they’re on their third unit after previous pumps lasted only 1–2 years.
Best Submersible Pump
Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Sump Pump
Good for: Homeowners who need a submersible sump pump built with a cast-iron motor to keep their home protected from rising water.
The Zoeller M53 is a heavy-duty cast-iron sump pump designed to automatically protect your home’s foundation from flooding during heavy rainfall and storms. Its robust construction features a corrosion-resistant finish and stainless steel hardware, while the 1.5-inch discharge pipe can handle solids up to 0.5 inches in diameter without clogging. The screenless design helps ensure reliable operation, and optional alarm systems are available to monitor water levels and pump performance.
Pros and Cons of Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Sump Pump
- Discharges up to 43 gallons of water per minute
- Comes with a 9-foot power cord
- Can take in solids up to a 1/2-inch thick
- The manufacturer has not listed the GPM output on Amazon
- Though easy to install, some customers experienced reliability issues
Key Features
- Power: 1/3-HP
- Water Capacity: Not available
- Cord Length: 9-feet
What People Are Saying About The Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Sump Pump
While customer feedback on this product varies, the majority of reviewers rated it 5 out of 5 stars at the time of this review. Satisfied customers highlighted overall affordability and ease of installation. Conversely, dissatisfied customers expressed that although the pump was robust, it malfunctioned after a few years. Moreover, one reviewer reported a problem with a leaking flow valve.
Best Power
Wayne 58321-WYN3 Submersible Sump Pump
Good for: Someone who needs a high-powered sump pump that fits in sump basins sized 11 inches or larger.
The Wayne 58321-WYN3 is a high-capacity submersible sump pump capable of moving up to 4,600 GPH, making it ideal for homes that face significant water intrusion. Its top-suction design effectively filters out debris and minimizes clogging issues, while the stainless steel and cast-iron construction provide long-term durability. This pump requires a larger sump pit of 11 inches or more in diameter and is specifically designed for indoor basement applications.
Pros and Cons of Wayne 58321-WYN3 Submersible Sump Pump
- Can discharge water up 20-foot inclines
- Users don’t need to drill a weep hole, which allows water to escape, for installation, which cuts down on additional work and supplies
- Has an easy installation process that only takes about 15 minutes
- Though powerful, this model uses more electricity than other sump pumps, which can impact power bills
- A few customers have reported that the float switch, which detects rising water, worked inconsistently
Key Features
- Power: 3/4-HP
- Water Capacity: 92 GPM
- Cord Length: 8 feet
What People Are Saying About The Wayne 58321-WYN3 Submersible Sump Pump
Several customers who rated this sump pump 4 or 5 out of 5 stars on Amazon reported that it reliably moved water without any problems, meeting or surpassing their expectations. Additionally, some reviews highlighted the convenience of the manufacturer’s mobile app for remotely monitoring the pump’s status.
On the downside, there have been complaints regarding the float switch’s intermittent operation rather than consistent performance. This is a significant issue, given that the float switch is what allows the sump pump to detect rising water levels and activate. Without consistent float switch performance, you’ll have to monitor your home for rising water more frequently.
Best Battery Backup
Wayne WSS30VN Battery Back-Up Sump Pump
Good for: A homeowner with a large 16-inch basin who requires additional backup power due to a finicky power grid or ongoing natural hazards.
The Wayne WSS30VN is a 1/2 HP sump pump system that combines high-capacity pumping—of up to 5,100 gallons per hour—with battery backup capability to keep your basement dry even during power outages. You can install the pre-assembled system in approximately 15 minutes and this model fits sump basins 16 inches or larger. However, you will need to purchase a separate battery for the backup feature. Backed by a three year warranty and assembled in the U.S., this pump provides reliable protection against basement flooding from heavy rains or snowmelt.
Pros and Cons of Wayne WSS30VN Battery Back-Up Sump Pump
- Powered by electricity but uses a backup battery to work through power outages
- Arrives pre-assembled for drop-in installation
- Assembled in the U.S. using quality, factory-tested parts
- Is more expensive than other options on this list
- Has an 8-foot power cord, which is short compared to other models we’ve reviewed
Key Features
- Power: 1/2 HP
- Water Capacity: 85 GPM
- Cord Length: 8 feet
What People Are Saying About The Wayne WSS30VN Battery Back-Up Sump Pump
Customers on Amazon have highlighted several key features of this sump pump, including its compact size, quick installation, quiet operation, and robust performance. However, some reviewers expressed frustration over the manufacturer’s slow response to their inquiries or a complete lack of response after multiple contact attempts. Additionally, one user raised concerns about the plastic threads in the discharge outlet, mentioning difficulties in screwing in adapters.
How Do I Know If I Need a Sump Pump?
The decision to install a sump pump isn’t always straightforward, but a few indicators can help you determine if your home would benefit from one. The key is understanding both your current situation and the risk factors that affect you.
“Not every home needs a sump pump,” says Caleb Vermillion, a master plumber with Quality Comfort Home Services. “If you don’t have any water getting into your basement, there’s really no reason to have a sump pump.”
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, we recommend getting a sump pump:
- Basement flooding or standing water after heavy rains or snowmelt
- Damp or wet basement floors that fail to dry completely
- Efflorescence (white, chalky residue on basement walls), which indicates water is moving through your foundation
- Musty odors or visible mold and mildew in basement areas, which often signals ongoing moisture problems
- Visible water stains on basement walls or floors
In addition to flooding or moldy odors, look for discoloration, ring marks, or streaks that indicate past water intrusion. “These stains often appear as discoloration, rings, or streaks and indicate that water has been an issue before and might be again,” Vermillion says.
Vermillion added that older homes may have less effective waterproofing measures and more foundation cracks, so a sump pump could end up being a good investment.
Types of Sump Pumps
There are four main types of sump pumps: submersible, pedestal, battery backup, and combination.
These pumps are fully submerged in a home’s sump pit, with the motor housed in a waterproof casing. When water level rises to a certain point, a float switch activates the pump, which expels the water through a discharge pipe that leads outside your home. Submersible pumps operate more quietly than other models since the motor is underwater. Plus, they have a more compact design and are generally more powerful. However, submersible pumps come with a higher upfront cost, ranging from $200–$600, a shorter lifespan of 8–12 years from the constant water exposure, and are typically more difficult to service.
Pedestal pumps have the motor situated on a stand above the sump pit, with only the pump intake submerged in water. A float switch controls when the pump turns on and off. These pumps are more affordable, typically ranging from $100–$300, and have a longer lifespan since the motor remains dry, often lasting 15–20 years. Additionally, they are easier to maintain and repair. However, pedestal pumps tend to operate noisily, occupy more space in your basement, and are generally less powerful than submersible models.
These systems feature a secondary pump powered by a marine battery. This backup pump automatically activates in the event your primary pump fails, the power goes out, or water levels rise more quickly than the primary pump can manage. Battery backup pumps typically operate for 6–12 hours, depending on the frequency of their activation. For longer outages requiring continuous pumping, you may need to use multiple batteries or a generator.
Combination sump pump setups include a primary pump, either submersible or pedestal, along with a battery backup pump. Both pumps are located in the same sump pit. Although they tend to cost more, ranging from $800–$1,500, combination pumps provide the best protection against basement flooding. These pumps typically sit in a below-floor basin similar to submersible sump pumps, but they’re larger in size. As a result, you can’t use the basin you dug for your old submersible sump pump with your new combination sump pump.
Parts of a Sump Pump
Understanding the basic components of a sump pump can help you choose the right model and maintain it effectively. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential parts of a sump pump:
- Check valve: Installed on the discharge pipe, the check valve prevents water from flowing backward into the sump pit after it has been pumped out. This reduces unnecessary cycling and protects the sump pump motor from strain.
- Float switch: This sensor floats on top of the water in the basin. When the water rises to a certain level, it activates the pump. Once the water level drops, the pump shuts off. A reliable float switch prevents your basement from turning into a pond when it floods.
- Discharge pipe: This pipe carries water from the pump to a safe drainage area away from your home. It needs to be the right diameter and have a check valve to stop backflow.
- Impeller: A fan-like mechanism that spins when the motor runs, creating suction that pulls water into the pump and pushes it out through the discharge pipe. The impeller is critical for efficient water movement.
- Power cord and/or backup power: The power cord keeps things running during normal operation, but a battery backup or water-powered backup system is a good safety net in case of a power outage.
- Pump motor: The heart of the system, the motor powers the impeller to move water out of the basin. Select a motor with sufficient horsepower (typically 1/3 HP–1 HP), depending on your flooding risk and the volume of water.
- Sump pit (or basin): This is the container installed in the ground that collects water from your home’s drainage system. It’s where the sump pump sits. A solid, properly sized basin ensures your pump can handle heavy inflow without being overwhelmed.
Sump Pump Buying Guide
Before purchasing and installing a sump pump, it’s important to understand how each model’s design and specifications impact its performance. It’s also worth noting that not every sump pump purchase requires a professional installation: “The good news is, you might not need a professional. With a good how-to guide, you can handle the installation yourself and save quite a bit.” says Danny Pen, the president of New Era Plumbing & HVAC.”
Here’s a list of a few key factors to consider when purchasing a sump pump:
- Alerts: Many sump pumps we researched come with audible alarms that signal rising water levels in your home.
- Horsepower: The horsepower (HP) of a sump pump’s motor indicates its overall power, with a higher horsepower indicating the motor is capable of pumping more water per hour. Many sump pumps our team researched have 1/2-HP or 1/3-HP engines, although some models feature more powerful 3/4-HP engines. While motors with a higher horsepower can pump more water per hour, they generally cost more.
- Installation: While leaving a sump pump installation to a professional may seem preferable for some homeowners, do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts may want to install their unit themselves. Yaeir Moinzadeh, a contractor and owner of Blue Rise Baltimore Roofing, said that installation complexity will depend on whether or not your home has a sump pump basin. He says that adding one involves digging into the basement floor and possibly installing drainage pipes. “It’s not impossible, but it’s definitely a weekend project at a minimum. An ideal sump pit should be at least 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide for best performance.”
- Material: Sump pumps are typically constructed from plastic or metal materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, or cast iron. While plastic sump pumps are more budget-friendly, their material is typically less durable compared to metal counterparts.
- Power source: Most sump pumps are powered by electricity, but some models feature a battery backup that activates during a blackout. For instance, we noted that certain pumps can deliver thousands of gallons on a single charge. Models without a battery backup can also pump thousands of gallons of water per hour as long as electricity is available.
- Switches: Most sump pumps use digital or manual switches. Manual models feature floats that activate the pump when floodwater rises to a certain level and turn it off when the floats fall. Digital models rely on sensors: the pump activates when water rises to the “on” sensor and stops at the “off” sensor. Digital switches have the advantage of pumping continuously until reaching the off sensor, even if the water falls below the on sensor.
FAQs About Sump Pumps
How often should I test my sump pump?
Test your sump pump at least twice a year, preferably before the spring thaw and before the start of the heavy rain season in your area. To test a sump pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to activate the float switch. This will ensure the pump turns on, effectively moves water, and shuts off properly. If you have a battery backup system, test it monthly during peak season and replace the battery every 3–5 years.
What size sump pump do I need?
Most residential sump pump systems operate effectively with a pump that has a power rating between 1/3- and 1/2-horsepower, which can handle between 2,000 and 5,000 GPH. The right size for your pump depends on several factors, including the dimensions of your basement, the local groundwater level, and the rate at which water accumulates in your sump pit during heavy rainfall. If you’re unsure about what size pump you need, it’s a good idea to consult with a plumber or a waterproofing contractor. They can assess your specific situation and recommend the appropriate pump capacity.
How long do sump pumps last?
Pedestal pumps generally have a lifespan of 15–20 years, primarily due to their motors remaining dry. In contrast, submersible pumps typically require replacement after 8–12 years, as they are constantly exposed to water. The actual lifespan can vary depending on factors such as the pump’s operating frequency, the quality of the water, and the maintenance schedule. Regular testing and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your pump.
What maintenance does a sump pump need?
Make sure to clean your home’s sump pit once a year by removing any debris. Ensure the float switch can move freely and check that the discharge pipe is not clogged or frozen. Regularly test the pump as previously mentioned, and inspect the power cord for any signs of damage. If you have a submersible pump, periodically remove and clean the pump to prevent sediment or debris buildup.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best sump pump recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of sump pumps with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers to understand real-world performance in basements and crawlspaces.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with plumbing professionals and waterproofing contractors, and drew insights from homeowner experiences shared by our readers.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older sump pump models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each pump’s horsepower, flow rate, durability features, and warranty coverage, selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of basement sizes, water intrusion levels, and homeowner budgets.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
