A reliable sump pump can save your home from water damage during flooding, which can lead to mold growth, structural problems, and costly repairs. While a high-capacity sump pump is ideal for keeping a large basement dry, smaller models come in handy for other purposes, such as draining water from above-ground pools and hot tubs.
When choosing a sump pump, it’s important to know the differences between submersible pumps and pedestal pumps. Submersible sump pumps are designed to be fully submerged underwater and concealed in the sump pit, so they are typically quieter during operation. “This makes them quieter and more visually appealing, so they’re more common for homeowners with finished basements,” says Aldo Ceja, Thumbtack’s home care expert.
In contrast, pedestal pumps have a motor that rests above the water level while the pump mechanism remains submerged in the pit. The pedestal design makes them easier to service, however, they are typically louder and more prone to overheating than submersible pumps. Because of their reduced capacity and potential ineffectiveness in handling high volumes of water, pedestal pumps are not ideal for regions prone to severe flooding.
We researched and selected the best sump pumps in various categories—from primary pumps to battery backup systems—to help you find the right model for your needs.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Best Submersible:
Best Battery Backup:
Best Compact:
Best Versatile:
What We Like
Powerful, high-capacity design
Removes debris and large solids
Extremely quiet
Five-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Requires larger sump basin
Bulkier than other options
The Rigid Sump Pump lands the top spot in our roundup thanks to its powerful performance and high pumping capacity. Its horsepower motor can remove up to 5,220 gallons of water per hour, making it suitable for large basements where flooding is an issue.
A dual-suction design filters out debris and solids as big as half an inch. Even though this sump pump is a powerhouse, it’s virtually silent while it’s running—yet another perk of its submersible design.
A 1.5-inch NPT allows for easy installation, which can be completed in about 15 minutes. Note that you will need a sump basin that is 11 to 14 inches in diameter, so you may want to consider a smaller model if you have limited space.
The Rigid Sump Pump boasts durable construction, which is necessary to withstand a wet environment. A heavy-duty cast-iron base, stainless-steel housing, and fasteners make it highly resistant to rust and corrosion. It has been tested with an "accelerated life" method of one million cycles to ensure long-lasting functionality.
Additionally, this unit is UL-listed, which means it meets UL Solutions' third-party criteria for safety, performance, and energy efficiency. These commendable features make this sump pump more expensive, but it’s worth the investment if your basement is prone to flooding.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 5,220 GPH | Dimensions: 14 x 10 x 10 inches
What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Ideal for smaller jobs
Includes 0.75-inch garden hose adapter
Easy to install
What We Don't Like
Relatively short warranty
Not as durable as other options
The Superior Pump Thermoplastic Utility Pump can move up to 1,800 gallons per hour (30 gallons per minute) and lift water 25 feet vertically, making it well-suited for smaller jobs and infrequent basement water problems. It has a removable intake screen filters out debris and passes solids up to 0.125 inches.
This versatile submersible pump has a 0.75-inch garden hose adapter, making it compatible with anystandard garden hose. It also works with standard 6-inch floor drains.
Thanks to its 10-foot power cord, convenient carrying handle, and lightweight design, this unit is suitable for various draining jobs—though we wouldn’t recommend it for heavy water accumulation. This pump features stainless steel shaft seals and copper motor windings, but the thermoplastic housing might not be as durable as other materials.
While the one-year warranty is relatively short compared to other brands, this product is UL-listed, CSA-certified, and factory-tested to ensure safety and reliability. All in all, we think this affordable sump pump is a solid choice for smaller jobs and occasional use.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 1,800 GPH | Dimensions: 12 x 7 x 7 inches
Best Pedestal
Superior Pump Stainless Steel Pedestal Sump Pump
What We Like
Easier to service
Automatic float switch
Long power cord
Cooling features
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for extended use
Risk of overheating
This sump pump features a pedestal design that makes it easier to service and maintain. Thanks to its slim profile, it’s also a good choice for areas where space is limited. The pump can move up to 3,600 gallons per hour, making it well-equipped to handle small to medium water-removal needs.
The float switch automatically turns the pump on and off, depending on the water level in the basin. The float and the arm are easy to adjust, and the 10-foot power cord adds to its convenience. Regarding durability, a sturdy cast-iron base and a stainless steel motor shaft resist rust and corrosion.
This model features an air-cooled motor and large vent holes to prevent it from overheating—a much-appreciated feature since pedestal pumps are more prone to overheating than submersibles. That said, you still risk overheating if it’s used continuously without breaks every hour or so. (This is a common issue with most pedestal pumps and is not specific to this model.) Despite that drawback, we still think this is one of the most effective and reliable pedestal pumps on the market, as evidenced by its UL listing.
Type: Pedestal | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 3,600 GPH | Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 36 inches
What We Like
High pumping capacity
Durable construction
Five-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Plumbing accessories not included
Requires large sump pit basin
With 0.75 horsepower and the ability to pump up to 5,490 gallons of water per hour, this submersible sump pump is one of the most powerful options on this list. Whether it’s heavy rain or melting snow, you can count on this sump pump to keep your basement dry.
Thanks to a heavy-duty cast-iron volute/base and stainless steel motor housing, it is extremely durable and highly resistant to rust and corrosion. To ensure long-lasting use, the vertical float switch has been tested with an “accelerated life” method to one million cycles.
This sump pump has an innovative top-suction design that filters out debris and minimizes clogging. It’s also backed with a five-year warranty for added peace of mind. Despite its high pumping capacity, it delivers an ultra-quiet performance.
Another major perk of this sump pump is that it can be easily installed in 15 minutes, but you will need to purchase plumbing accessories, such as a hose and PVC piping, separately. Please note that this unit has a relatively large footprint, so you’ll need a sump pit basin of at least 11 inches in diameter.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 5,490 GPH | Dimensions: 10.5 x 9 x 11 inches
What We Like
Automatically switches to battery power during outages
Easy installation
Three-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Battery not included
Bulkier than other options
In the event of a power outage, a sump pump with a backup battery system can keep your basement dry even if the electricity goes out. We think this 0.5-horsepower model from Wayne is an excellent option. It has an impressive 5,100 gallons-per-hour capacity and can evacuate up to 10,000 gallons of water on a single charge.
This combination system can also be used as a primary pump, making it a great investment. It has been tested to ensure years of reliable performance, and the manufacturer backs it with a three-year warranty.
Like many battery backup options, this unit doesn’t come with a battery, which is quite costly at over $250 (though it is rechargeable). Due to its bulky size, this sump pump might not be ideal for some homeowners. It’s also worth noting that it requires a sump basin of 16 inches in diameter or larger.
This unit comes pre-assembled for convenience, allowing easy installation in about 15 minutes. If you live in an area with frequent power outages and you’re facing a serious water emergency, this is the battery-backed pump to have ready.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Battery | Pumping Capacity: 5,100 GPH | Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 15.5 inches
What We Like
Sends real-time alerts via Wi-Fi
Alarm indicates irregularities
Performs weekly self-test
Battery fluid sensor
What We Don't Like
Limited to backup use
This smart sump from Basement Watchdog connects to your home’s Wi-Fi system and will send you real-time alerts via text or email (via a downloadable app) should any irregularities occur. It also has an alarm to notify you when the power goes out and when maintenance is required.
In addition to its smart capabilities, this unit features a dual float switch, a weekly self-test, and a sensor that monitors battery fluid levels—plus, you can monitor the remaining battery charge from your phone.
The Basement Watchdog Sump Pump can remove up to 2,600 gallons per hour and lift water to 10 feet vertically. Due to its low flow rate, this sump pump is intended for backup use only.
However, the battery backup system can be used with a primary sump pump, providing an extra layer of defense during a power outage. Like the other battery-powered options in this roundup, the 115-volt AC battery is not included and costs nearly as much as the pump.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Battery | Pumping Capacity: 2,600 GPH | Dimensions: 5.5 x 9.2 x 5 inches
What We Like
Small and lightweight
Suitable for various draining jobs
Efficient for its size
What We Don't Like
Only intended for smaller jobs
The DekoPro water pump is a solid choice for smaller jobs around your home. While we wouldn’t recommend it for a large basement, its compact size —less than a foot tall and just 6.5 inches in diameter—allows for versatile placement.
Unlike bulkier pumps, this model only weighs about 8 pounds, so it can be moved around as needed. A 10-foot power cord, which can be plugged into any standard outlet, further enhances its versatility.
Despite its compact design, this sump pump delivers impressive and surprisingly quiet performance. It can move up to 2,450 gallons per hour and has a maximum lift capacity of 28 feet, allowing for efficient drainage.
Other helpful features include a 0.75-inch garden hose adapter, which comes in handy for outdoor jobs, and a detachable filter that can pass solids up to 0.125 inches thick. Although the thermoplastic construction may not hold up as well as heavy-duty models, On the plus side, this product is covered by a two-year manufacturer's quality warranty.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 2,450 GPH | Dimensions: 10.6 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches
What We Like
Suitable for various draining jobs
Lightweight and portable
Extra-long 25-foot power cord
Comes with three adapters
What We Don't Like
Not as durable as other options
Fairly short warranty
With its lightweight design and 25-foot power cord, this submersible sump pump can be used in various areas around your home. It can pump out 2,000 gallons of water per hour, which is ideal for smaller jobs and occasional pumping. This unit can be switched between manual and automatic operation, and it will stop running automatically if it detects no remaining water on a flat floor.
The base has an integrated stainless steel plate to enhance durability and protect the impeller from damaging debris. While many submersible sump pumps come with a relatively short power cord of 8 feet or less, this model's extra-long cord, which is grounded and waterproof for optimal safety, eliminates the need for an extension cord.
It also has a portable handle that makes it easy to install from a farther position. This model has three plastic adapters for quick hose connections and easy installation. While the flow rate isn’t ideal for severe flooding and large basements, it’s well-equipped for draining above-ground pools, hot tubs, rain barrels, and minor indoor flooding.
Type: Submersible | Power Source: Electric | Pumping Capacity: 2,000 GPH | Dimensions: 9.45 x 9.45 x 10.35 inches
Final Verdict
The Rigid 1/2 HP Dual Suction Sump Pump is our best overall pick. This powerful submersible system can remove up to 5,220 gallons of water per hour, yet it is surprisingly easy to install and operates extremely quietly. If you’re looking for a sump pump that’s better suited for smaller jobs and occasional use, we recommend the Superior Pump 1/4 HP Thermoplastic Utility Pump.
How We Picked the Best Sump Pumps
To choose the best sump pumps, we compared the top-rated models in a variety of categories. We carefully evaluated products based on their pump type and capacity, ease of installation, durability, and overall performance. While some of the more powerful options are intended for substantial water accumulation, others are better suited for smaller draining jobs.
For people who live in areas with frequent power outages, we included several battery backup systems that work when the lights go out. We also included compact portable models that can be used for multiple purposes, such as draining above-ground pools and rain barrels.
What to Look for in a Sump Pump
Type of Pump
There are two main types of sump pumps—submersible and pedestal—and each has pros and cons.
- Submersible Pumps: Because they are buried entirely in the sump pit, submersible sump pumps typically run more effectively and with less noise. However, due to their higher efficiency and unobtrusive design, submersible pumps are typically more expensive and costlier to repair. Our best submersible, the Wayne 3/4 HP Sump Pump, boasts a powerful pumping capacity (up to 5,490 gallons of water per hour) and ultra-quiet operation.
- Pedestal Pumps: These sump pumps have their motors mounted above water and are only partly hidden in the sump pit. Pedestal pumps are more likely to overheat and produce more noise when operating. Also, the exposed motor makes them more susceptible to debris and moisture, impacting longevity and performance. Our best pedestal, the Superior Pump 1/2 HP Pedestal Pump, is one of the more durable options in this category.
Power Source
Most primary sump pumps run on electricity and have power cords that can be plugged into standard outlets. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, it’s a good idea to have a backup battery system (in addition to a primary pump) as an additional line of defense against flooding. Our best battery backup pick, the Wayne 1/2 HP Basement Sump Pump System, uses a combination of power sources, providing a primary pump and battery backup system all in one.
Pump capacity
“The pumping capacity of sump pumps refers to the volume of water they can move within a specific time frame, which is usually measured in gallons per hour (GPH),” says Ceja. He recommends a high-capacity pump that can effectively remove substantial water accumulation if you live in an area prone to heavy flooding.
Our best overall pick, the Rigid 1/2 HP Dual Suction Sump Pump, is incredibly powerful and can pump up to 5,220 gallons of water per hour, making it a reliable choice for larger projects. Conversely, if you only experience minor flooding in your home or have limited space, the DekoPro 1/3 HP Submersible Water Pump (our best compact) might be a more suitable option.
Power Output
The power output of a sump pump is measured in horsepower (HP), with the models on this list ranging from power from 0.33 horsepower to 1 horsepower. “A higher horsepower indicates you have a stronger pump capable of moving larger volumes of water more quickly and handling higher head pressure (the height water needs to be lifted),” Ceja says.
When deciding what horsepower you need, Ceja says you need to consider the basement's size and the typical volume of water that accumulates. If you have a small amount of water, a 0.33-horsepower sump pump should suffice; however, if your basement is prone to heavy flooding, a powerful 1-horsepower sump pump is a wise investment.
Maintenance
Some pumps require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. You may need to clean the filter regularly, swap out the battery every few years, or replace the PVC piping. Our best smart recommendation, the Basement Watchdog BWSP Special Connect Sump Pump, is equipped with an alarm that detects irregularities and a control panel that helps pinpoint mechanical problems.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Sage McHugh, a commerce writer specializing in appliances, cleaning, organization, and home tech. She has been writing for The Spruce since 2019, covering everything from fire extinguishers and pool heaters to water testing kits. When choosing the best sump pumps (both submersible and pedestal), she carefully evaluated products based on their power source, pump capacity, ease of installation, overall performance, and durability.
Our Experts:
- Aldo Ceja, Thumbtack’s Home Care Expert
The 7 Best Gutter Guards of 2024