The 10 Best Submersible Sump Pumps For Your Basement (Reviews)
So, someone recommended a submersible sump pump for your basement, but you have no clue which one is the best for you? See, that’s where we come in, we will make the choosing process easier for you.
We will go over the 10 best submersible sump pumps you can buy online. Some expensive, some cheap; the different kinds of submersible pumps will be covered in the 10 reviews below. After all, not everyone has the same basement.
Without further ado, here are the best submersible sump pumps you can find online.
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Table of Contents
Zoeller 267-0001 M267 Waste-Mate Sewage Pump
The M267 is one of Zoeller’s top products, in my opinion, the best sump pump you can buy. Fair price, above-average performance. However, not for every basement.
Its housing material is made from cast iron which protects the switch case, the motor, and the pump. The housing is intended to protect the pump from rusting during the years.
You can see that Zoeller thought about durability, apart from the housing material, the pump has a powder-coated epoxy exterior that will make sure there isn’t any corrosion damage.
The excellent protective design is not the only good thing about this pump, it also has a tremendous oil-filled 1/2 HP motor that can pump as much as 5340 gallons per hour at 10 feet.
Everything about this sump pump is made to last, you will like it if you need a durable pump that will also be effective.
Pros
You can say that almost any pump has the same design like this one, how is this any different? The difference is in how this pump is executed, commends to Zoeller for making the most durable sump pump.
Another thing that I absolutely love about this sump pump is the powerful motor. Of course, it’s designed for basins larger than 18 inches in diameter but not many motors can handle that much space alone.
Cons
If there’s is a problem with this pump, it’s a manufacturing problem. If you inspect your sump pump before paying, and everything is okay, you shouldn’t have a problem. Look out for a faulty switch.
Some users don’t like the 10 feet power cord; however, you can fix this with a quick run to the store, even that won’t be needed if you have an extension cord ready.
Moving on from the M267, let’s take a look at another Zoeller product.
Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Submersible Sump Pump
The previous model was powerful, specifically designed for big basins that have harsh conditions, what follows is a pump more appropriate for the average home: The Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate.
The housing material is simple, made from cast iron. It will do its job, and it will last at least 5 years. You can’t ask for more from an average sump pump.
To add to the pump’s life expectancy, Zoeller used thermoplastic for the base, which allows for a smooth operation.
The motor may not amaze you but it will do its job. Automatically activated by a vertical float switch, an oil-filled motor that can pump as much as 2040 gallons per hour at 10 feet.
You could say that the M53 is a mini version of the M267, made available for the average homeowner.
Pros
I love that this pump is fair-trade, for a relatively cheap price you get durability, efficiency, and safety. Trust me, you can’t find a better sump pump for the same amount of money.
If everything was not enough, Zoeller also made this pump to handle solids. This will stop the pump from clogging, which is not a rare situation with average pumps. All of these factors contribute to the M53’s high position on our review list.
Cons
I guess we can list the not that powerful motor as a weakness, not that it’s bad, but for its limited use. Homeowners who need a higher maximum flow will not like this sump pump.
Like many Zoeller products, this one also has a short power cord. You already know what to do if this doesn’t concern you
Let’s move to another manufacturer, it’s not like we are married to Zoeller.
WAYNE CDU980E Submersible Sump Pump
The previous models were strictly designed for durability and efficiency, with no tech-features. Let’s see a model with a modern design.
The CDU980E is one of the most popular products out there, maybe because of its fancy features that customers like. One of the cheaper models, but not everyone can afford it.
Made from cast iron and stainless-steel this pump offers durable housing that can outstand most basin conditions.
It has the WAYNE’s signature top suction design that will make clogging impossible. Adding to the clogging protection, it also has a Float Guard that protects the switch from hang-ups.
You will be surprised by how powerful the motor is on this average pump, 3/4 HP motor that can pump as much as 3500 gallons per hour at 10 feet.
Pros
I like that WAYNE thought about customers that are not handy or not willing, that is why this sump pump is easy to install, reliable, and effective.
Even if this is a relatively cheap sump pump and a reliable one, WAYNE still offers a 5-year warranty.
Cons
The CDU980E is known to have some manufacturing problems. Be sure to inspect your unit before paying. If the pump comes in good shape, you are good to go.
Although this is a quite reliable sump pump, it won’t last in harsh basins conditions. This is not necessarily a con, but it’s how the pump is built.
This was the CDU980, designed for small basins, anyways, let’s see what follows.
Liberty Pumps 287 1/2 HP Submersible Sump Pump
Liberty Pumps are also one of the manufacturers that value reliability and durability. This is one of their less expensive models and designed for home-usage.
Made with Liberty’s signature UNI-BODY casting, which means that it has a one-piece housing that does not require bottom sealing.
Although it can fit in small basins, it still has a powerful motor, a 1/2 HP that can pump as much as 3360 gallons per hour at 10 feet.
This pump has great protection against debris, a strong polymer impeller and a vortex style design for handling solids.
Pros
This pump wins big points for its durable design. You can see that the intent of the manufacturers was to build a cheap pump that can last in harsh conditions.
This is one of the best sump pumps you can find if you are not willing to spend too much money. For a relatively cheap price, you get a great pump for home-usage
Cons
Besides all the features this pump comes with, it still does not have a check valve. Be sure to buy one if you decide on this pump, it will save you a trip to the store.
We can’t say that the motor is bad, but its strength is only average, it would be great if your pair this sump pump with a battery backup.
I think I bored you with all these durable pumps, let’s see some more interesting models.
Zoeller 507-0011 Pro Pak98 Combination System with Backup Option
As I said I want to satisfy every reader’s need and some homeowners like sump pump combos for that extra piece of safety. The model that follows is submersible, so it gets a space on the list.
For a sump pump combo, the PP98 is a relatively expensive model. Of course, you get what you pay for, and maybe something more.
I like how easy you can install it, the 12-Volt DC backup and the primary pump come pre-assembled, most users have no problems during installing the pump.
You can’t say that this combo is powerful, however, it’s quite efficient, a primary with a maximum flow rate of 3660 GPH, and a backup with a rate of 1800GPH.
By now, you know that Zoeller is all about durability, this model has tech features too, an alarm that notes water level, a battery status panel, and a control box with useful information.
Pros
I love that besides durability, you also get modern features, definitely a surprise from Zoeller. A sump pump system that everyone will love.
Another good thing about this combo is that the maintenance needed is kept at a minimum. Of course, some love doing handy work, but those that don’t will love this sump pump.
Cons
Okay, those that don’t like additional costs will not like this, this model is expensive and yet you still have to buy a battery. However, it’s like this with most sump pump systems.
Unfortunately, the 3-year warranty is more bad news, it’s not unreasonable to expect more for the price you pay.
That’s all about the PP98, I’m sure the combo users appreciated this, anyways, it’s time to move on.
WAYNE ESP25 Submersible Battery Backup
Now, what follows, is for those that are interested in a battery backup, a way to increase the efficiency of your main pump and add a safety measure for your basement.
The ESP25 is absolutely the best submersible battery backup pump you can find. Fair price, a reliable pump that’s easy to install.
WAYNE designed this backup to last in harsh conditions, the epoxy steel housing and the cast-iron base make sure that happens.
You can say that the motor is relatively powerful, it has a maximum flow rate of 1500 GPH at 10 feet, which is quite efficient for a backup.
There is something for the tech lovers too in this backup, an audible alarm and a battery status panel with LED indicators.
Pros
This battery backup gained popularity for a good reason, users love how easy it is to install, and if you get the special WAYNE battery for the pump, maintenance will not be a problem.
Durability is not the strong side of battery backups; however, this model does a tremendous job of staying alive in harsh conditions. You can’t say that doesn’t earn it good points.
Cons
Unfortunately, WAYNE did not do a good job with the 3-year warranty, you can expect to change batteries from time to time, however, a 3-year warranty will not make you happy.
Now, what I really don’t like about this backup is that the check valve is not included in the box. What can I say, it makes me happy when the sump pump comes with a check valve included.
Those that were interested in a battery backup are satisfied, let’s see some other submersible models.
Superior Pump 92341 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump
This is the cheapest model on this list (check price), however, it’s not on this list for its price, this really is a great sump pump.
The 92341 is specifically designed for homes that have a small basin that does not get water that much, but a sump pump is still a necessity.
Surprisingly, this pump can last in harsh conditions. You wouldn’t expect that because of the price, but the cast-iron housing makes sure the pump can endure anything.
You can say that the motor is not powerful, but it’s another surprise that it can also handle continuous duty. As I said not powerful, but 1800 GPH at 10 feet is ideal for home-usage.
Additional things that make the 92341 a great pump are a vertical float switch, side/bottom suction design, and an ability to handle solids.
Pros
We must say bravo to Superior Pump for making such a good low-budget sump pump available. Usually, for this kind of price, you would expect a piece of garbage, this one is the exception.
I absolutely love the side/bottom suction design, basins such as the one I described above are prone to clog pumps because of the dirt that forms at the bottom. With the side/bottom design that problem is handled.
Cons
Now, what you have been waiting for, a pump with a price like this one can’t be flawless. A problem with the float switch is very common, you may have to replace it once in a while.
What may be considered as a bad thing among some homeowners is that this pump has a targeted audience, everyone would love a cheap reliable pump, however, this pump is not for everyone.
We are done with the cheap option, it’s time I show you some less known models that are actually great.
Basement Watchdog BW1050 Submersible Sump Pump
I want to show you an energy-saving model, the pump that follows is not preferred by most but I assure you, this is a magnificent sump pump.
The BW1050 is designed for average water removal, not that powerful but not weak either, a pump for the average homeowner.
You will find that its housing is nothing special but the cast iron and cast aluminum won’t disappoint you, the pump will last in normal basin conditions.
Now, as I said, this is an eco-friendly sump pump, which means that the motor is oil-free and water-cooled. Surprisingly, it’s powerful too, with a maximum flow rate of 3200 GPH at 10 feet.
Pros
What is really great about this sump pump is that besides the cheap price, you save money another way too, the energy-efficient motor will lower electricity bills and pay for the pump.
Basement Watchdog did something on this model that not many manufacturers do, a dual float switch with a protective cage. You can be 100% sure that the pump will start.
Cons
I really don’t recommend this pump if you have a harsh basin, the housing will not be able to endure the conditions. I can’t say that this is necessarily a bad thing, but not every homeowner will like this.
Now, users found that the product had some manufacturing issues, however, Basement Watchdog was really helpful with replacing, just make sure to inspect the pump before buying.
That’s all about the BW1050, I’m sure those that like eco-friendly products liked this one, let’s go on now.
Liberty Pumps 257 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump
This is one of the most interesting options, it’s cheap, very reliable, and quite effective, however, it’s not that popular among homeowners. Oddly enough…
The 257 also has a targeted audience, this pump is for those that have a small basin that has harsh conditions. Those with that kind of basin, surely, would appreciate a pump like this.
Now, what I respect about Liberty Pumps is the way they eliminate lower motor seal, that “way” is called UNI-BODY casting, the 257 has that.
You may think the motor is not that powerful but for smaller basins, it’s perfect, a 1/3 HP motor that can pump as much as 2250 GPH.
As I said, this is a pump for harsh basins, so it’s expected to handle solids. However, this model not only handles solids but it’s protected from them too, the vortex style design provides that.
Pros
I love that Liberty Pumps made a durable pump for small basins available for homeowners, most of the durable submersible pumps are made for basins larger than 18 inches in diameter.
If I list all the good things about this pump, it will take me a whole hour. What really caught my eye is the magnetic float switch, Liberty predicted that the float will clog in small basins, so they solved that.
Cons
If there is anything bad to say about this sump pump, it would be the targeted audience, I would love to see a model like this for larger basins.
Sorry to say I have nothing bad to add, I really like this sump pump.
That’s another durable pump to the list, what can I say, I really value quality above everything else. Now, let’s end this list.
WAYNE WWB WaterBug Submersible Pump
Now, I wanted to end this list with an interesting choice and a situation that I didn’t cover. This pump is for utility use, such as boats, ponds, etc.
The WWB WaterBug can be used as a sump pump but keep in mind that your basin needs to have the perfect conditions. If you use this one in normal basin conditions, it will corrode.
As you can expect, the housing is nothing special, a thermoplastic construction that will serve you well if you use it for its intended use.
Surprisingly, it has quite a powerful motor for a utility pump, it has a maximum flow rate of 1010 GPH at 10 feet.
This is a fully submersible pump, which means that this pump won’t leave any water at the bottom, a really useful feature if your basement is flooded.
Pros
I like how fun the WaterBug is, it’s tiny, it’s light, and most importantly it looks really good. Looks aside, this pump really has a wide range of use, such as flooded basements, boats, etc.
It’s interesting that users had no issues with clogging and debris, you would expect a fully submersible sump pump to have clogging issues, however, this one is immune.
Cons
Now, what disappoints me is the 1-year warranty, I hate it when manufacturers make a great product and ruin it with the warranty. A good warranty is crucial to every customer.
Unfortunately, this pump can’t be used for pools, the chemicals from the water ruin the housing almost instantly. Users that used it on pools, were left in shock.
Those were the best submersible sump pumps but don’t go just yet, there is something you need to know before buying.
What is a submersible sump pump?
The name says it all. A submersible sump pump is a pump that rests in the water in the basin (it is submersed), as opposed to the pedestal pump which has its inlet line in the water but the motor is out of the basin.
In a submersible pump the motor and the inlet line rest in the water. Submersible pumps are more efficient and quieter; however, they have a shorter life, because of the water damage they endure.
That was easy, let’s answer another crucial question that you must know before buying.
When should I buy a submersible sump pump?
At this point, I probably don’t need to tell you that you should get a sump pump if your basement gets wet easily, if you’re in a flood zone or if your area has a high water table or is prone to extreme weather conditions and heavy rainfalls. But when should you buy a submersible sump pump specifically?
There aren’t any strict rules, however, in some situations, a submersible sump pump is better for your basement.
Pedestal pumps are less powerful and less expensive; however, they are not built for big basins that receive a lot of water on a daily basis.
Moreover, submersible sump pumps are often prefered over pedestal sump pumps because they are known to make less noise when turned on, due to the insulating nature of the water in which the pump is submersed. So when you use your basement for work, relaxation or any other purpose than for storage alone, you may want to consider getting a submersible sump pump instead of a pedestal one, as you are bound to experience less noise disturbance with it.
I also recommend getting a submersible sump pump if your basin is more sewage than a basin.
What are the best submersible sump pump brands?
Of course, you’ve already seen some of the top brands in our top 10 list of best submersible sump pumps. But in general, Zoeller definitely stands out as a brand which has a long history of producing quality sump pumps. WAYNE and Liberty Pumps are probably the top competitors for the title of best sump pump brand. While Red Lion did not make it to our list of best submersible sump pumps, as a brand it definitely deserves an honourable mention.
That’s all folks, hope my list helped you. May your submersible sump pump serve you well.
