When looking for a new sump pump, the first of several questions you need answers to is the horsepower rating. While pumps all look heavy duty, a pump with a 1/4 HP rating will not work nearly as well as a 1/2 HP version. The price difference is usually significant, but in the long run a stronger pump is the route I would take.

The next question is whether this is a clean water, dirty water or particulate pump. If you are placing the pump into a basin, go with either a dirty water or particulate pump. The dust and grime in the basin will cause impeller (pump propeller) failure after time unless the pump is has special amenities for particulates. The more you can get form your preferred sump pump expert in the way of insurances, the better off you’ll be in the case that something happens.

The other thing you need to look for is how the sump is activated. There are a ton of options here but the most popular is the sliding float switch with the pump hard wired into the panel. The float will rise with the water until it makes contact with the top of the slide and removes the water in the basin Another float style is one that remains on top of the water until the contact solution in the float ball engages the pump. This is a very inexpensive system but only half as reliable as a tracked float. The last is a wall switch style that has a float but can be activated with a wall switch. These pumps are not available at the lower priced tool stores, but are available in the plumbing section of the bigger box stores.

A 1/2 HP sliding float dirty water pump with a flexible output line (PEX) is a good bet for most homeowners in need of a ump pump installation. The pumps are all NPT (National Pipe Thread) which means that any threaded black pipe or pvc pipe will screw into the output hole. Good luck and keep it dry!!

When you need a professional sump pump recommendation and installation make sure you contact us a Powell’s Plumbing! Call us at 540-665-8196