Sump pumps are critical in water management projects, preventing basements from flooding and the costly water damage that follows. As a contractor or distributor, choosing a quality sump pump and products that match your customer’s needs and project requirements is crucial. The pump you select should have the proper material, motor power, and advanced features as needed. This article examines the types of sump pumps on the market and how to choose the right one.
Types of Sump Pumps
Various types of sump pumps and parts are used in residential, construction, and infrastructure projects:
Automatic vs. Manual
Automatic sump pumps have a float switch or sensor that activates when water reaches a certain level. Their best feature is that they can be operated without supervision, providing continuous flood protection. In contrast, manual pumps require the user to turn them on and off manually and are often used for catastrophic events like river flooding.
Submersible
Submersible pumps are designed to be submerged in water without damaging the motor. Their pros include quiet operation, higher efficiency in moving large volumes of water, and reduced risk of overheating.
Pedestal
You install pedestal pumps in a sump pit, with only the impeller in the water and the motor mounted above the pit. These pumps are easy to access and repair, generally affordable, and have a long life span.
Sump Pump Selection: Factors and Key Features to Consider
By understanding factors like your project requirements, material quality, and brand, you can choose a sump pump that aligns with your client’s needs while ensuring efficient water management. As a distributor, you can leverage this knowledge to stock the best products that cater to your contractor clientele’s diverse projects.
Consider the following factors to choose the right sump pump:
Project Requirements
First, assess your project and the type of sump pump the job requires, including the size, switch type, and other factors:
- Pump size and capacity: Evaluate the volume of water that will be pumped out regularly. For residential projects, a pump with a capacity of 35-60 gallons per minute might do the trick, while larger commercial projects might require a pump that can handle hundreds of gallons per minute. The size of the sump pit will also determine the pump dimensions.
- Basin size: Most residential installations require a minimum of an 18×30-inch basin. For systems requiring two sewage pumps, you’ll need a larger basin of around 30 inches at a minimum.
- Environmental factors: When choosing a sump pump, consider environmental factors like debris in the water, the potential for a higher water volume during heavy rains, and the depth of the water table. A pump with a sturdy intake screen might be necessary in areas with more debris, while a high-capacity pump is critical in areas with heavy rainfall.
- Switches: You can choose from various sump pump switches, including diaphragm, integral snap-action float, and tethered float switches. Diaphragm switches are best for basins with a primary sump pump and a battery backup system. Since snap-action float switches move vertically, they are best for smaller sump basins, while tethered switches require more room to swing out and turn on.
Material Quality and Durability
The best sump pumps for contractors are those made of durable, high-quality materials:
- Cast iron: Cast iron is one of the most robust materials for sump pump housing. It is strong and corrosion-resistant. It also effectively pulls heat away, keeping the pump cool and increasing its longevity.
- Bronze: A bronze pump housing is an option for brackish water applications. Bronze can withstand brackish applications better than cast iron, steel, thermoplastic, or cast aluminum.
- Plastic: Plastic sump pumps are typically very durable and less expensive. They are also corrosion-resistant.
- Stainless steel: Like cast iron, stainless steel offers ultimate performance by being corrosion-resistant, heavy, and effective at dissipating heat.
While investing in a pump made from high-quality materials may have a higher upfront cost, it will pay off in the long run with fewer replacements and repairs, especially in demanding environments like industrial settings.
Motor Power and Efficiency
Assessing horsepower is critical — too little power and the pump won’t effectively move water out. Too much, and it could cycle too quickly and lead to excessive wear and tear. Residential pumps often range from 1/4 to 1/3 horsepower (HP), while commercial applications may require 1/2 HP or more. A 3/4 HP sump pump will be ideal for homes with deep basements or high water tables.
Energy-efficient pumps might cost more upfront but will save your customers money over time by reducing electricity bills.
Advanced Features and Innovations
When you add advanced features like a battery- or water-powered backup to your sump pump, your customers will have peace of mind. A water-powered sump pump backup uses the pressure of the municipal water source to power the pump instead of electricity, making it a good option in areas that experience frequent power outages and flooding. A battery backup sump pump is similar to a water-powered sump pump, but it has a battery within the casing to provide hours of protection until power is restored.
Top Brands and Service
When choosing a sump pump, it’s essential to consider top brands. Zoeller Pump Company pumps are known for their reliability and performance, and they offer unique features so you can tailor them to your preference or project demands.
Models like the Zoeller M53 are popular for residential use, while many contractors choose the Flow-Mate series, such as the M137, for commercial projects requiring more robust systems. The 540 FLEX® Water Powered Backup is ideal for projects that require a high-quality backup to protect properties during power outages.
Sump Pump Installation Tips
Follow these tips to install your sump pumps effectively:
- Pre-installation checklist: Inspect the electrical connections and check the sump pit for debris before installing the sump pump. Ensure a level surface for the pump and test it before permanently installing it.
- Installation guide: Securely connect the discharge pipe, check the valve, and ensure a tight seal. Route water from the foundation and test the switch to ensure it properly activates.
- Pitfalls to avoid: Don’t overlook a solid discharge line support to prevent pipe stress. Ensure the check valve is installed in the correct orientation to prevent backflow.
Sump Pump Maintenance
Proper sump pump maintenance can ensure reliable protection against water damage in homes, businesses, and industrial settings:
- Routine schedule: Periodically clean the pump and pit, check battery backup systems, and test the pump’s operation. Remove mud, silt, sand, and other debris accumulated in the sump basin to prevent clogging. Inspect and clean the anti-airlock hole, float switch, and impeller. Do not operate the pump if the power cords show damage or wear.
- Troubleshooting tips: If a pump fails to start, check for tripped breakers, float obstruction, or clogged intake screens. For motor issues, consult manufacturer guidelines.
- Spare parts inventory: Keep essential components like switches, gaskets, and backup batteries on hand to minimize downtime during repairs.
In applications where the pump does not activate for extended periods, it’s best practice to cycle it at least once a month to ensure it works properly.
Purchase a Reliable Sump Pump From Zoeller Pump Company
Sump pumps prevent flooding, costly foundational damage, and mold and mildew growth risk. For these reasons, it is crucial to prioritize sump pump selection, and proper installation and maintenance are essential. Turn to the professionals at Zoeller Pump Company for a quality, high-performing sump pump that can help prevent these risks and give your clients peace of mind.
We manufacture reliable water pumps for contractors nationwide, including a wide range of pump products for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Our products are made in the USA using 95% U.S. content. Locate a distributor near you to find the perfect pump for your needs today!
