Thunder, storm and the soothing sound of rain brings you peace, doesn’t it? But, it is not always the same for all homeowners. With water comes difficulty and you have to deal with it to enjoy a lazy rainy or stormy day.

In fact, water can not only accumulate in the lawn or street in front of you. Even when it does, they have well-designed places to go. The trouble is when water accumulates in your basement. You yourself have to get rid of it.

But it is better to prevent this from happening rather than dealing with what has happened. Because, let’s face it, removing the water manually is possible but hard.

This is why sump pumps exist and they take care of the water before you even take a look at your basement. Owing to them you can just enjoy a peaceful cup of warm tea or coffee up above the house. There are two kinds of sump pumps available- the submersible sump pumps and the pedestal sump pumps.

Here we will be talking about the best pedestal sump pumps and also the best way to choose one. Let’s begin!

Best Pedestal Sump Pump Reviews

1. Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09 1/3 HP – Best Reliable Pedestal Sump Pump

Flotec FPPM3600D

 

If you are looking for a pedestal sump pump that will really last for years while also giving you the same performance that it initially offered you then this Flotec Sump Pump may be the one. You can consider it quite powerful with its 1/3 HP motor. But there are other things that make it quite appealing.

Firstly, this unit is really easy to install. In fact, it comes with just the right side of things to fit anywhere. Therefore, you will enjoy quite a quick installation.

Apart from that, it offers a 1-¼ inch discharge which will ensure a good flow of water getting the job done faster. Moreover, it has a thermoplastic construction that keeps it safe from rust and corrosion.

The kind of plastic in it prevents it from overheating by distributing the heat as well. However, you may feel that the unit does not have a high quality. Apparently, it has metal parts inside it that often cause a rattle.

When it comes to draining water, the pump does a great job with its power and flow rate. However, the float switch may have a rod that is not very long. This could pose trouble if it does not fit your pumping needs well.

The electrically powered pump does a great job and it sure does last for years without showing any decrease in the quality of its performance. On top of it all, this unit comes at a price that you do not expect sump pumps of this quality to be available at.

Reasons to get
  • A unit that lasts while providing the same performance.
  • Quite powerful and fast.
  • Pumps water really well.
  • Easy to install.
  • It does not overheat.
  • It will not corrode or rust.
Reasons to avoid
  • It may be a bit noisy.
  • The float bar may be a bit short.

 

>>>Flotec Sump Pump Reviews<<<

2. Superior Pump 92551 1/2 HP Cast Iron Pedestal Pump – Best Value For Money

Superior Pump 92551

 

Looking for a very powerful pedestal sump pump that will deal with the dirty water that accumulates in the basement? Then, this Superior Pump 92551 may be what you are looking for. Firstly, the motor with a power of ½ HP ticks the first box for a powerful pedestal sump pump.

Then, it has a flow rate of 3600 GPH which makes it work quite fast. Furthermore, it can pump the water to quite a height. Therefore, you do not really have to worry about the capacity of the pedestal sump pump at all. Because it will be enough.

When it comes to installation, you may have a different experience. This depends on the base where you plan to keep the pedestal pump. Apparently, the pedestal sump pump is quite heavy and it usually needs a flat base. When the sump pump is compatible with your basement you will find that the pump is quite easy to install. If it’s not, you will have to make a few adjustments.

Other than that, the pump seems to arrive in a beat-up condition. Sometimes it’s only the box that is damaged. Sometimes it is the pump itself. The float switch works great.

The discharge tube has quite a good width to help with the flow. On top of all that, this pedestal sump pump has a cast-iron build. This is somewhat the reason behind the weight of the pump. But you sure can sacrifice a bit of lightweight to enjoy better quality and heat distribution, right??

There are metal parts within the pump that can get quite noisy. Apart from all these, the sump pump offers great value for the money.

Reasons to get
  • Quite a powerful pedestal sump pump.
  • The flow rate is good.
  • It is quite easy to install if it is compatible.
  • Very good quality build.
  • Great heat distribution.
  • Good value for the price.
Reasons to avoid
  • Installation may be difficult if the sump pump is not compatible.
  • It can be noisy.
  • May arrive damaged.

 

3. ECO-FLO EPC50 Pedestal Sump Pump – Best High Power Pedestal Pump

ECO-FLO Products EPC50 Pedestal Sump Pump with Vertical Float Switch

 

Want a pedestal sump pump that will take care of the water challenge super-fast? You may be residing somewhere where the water flow in your basement when it is a storm or something similar very high. In such cases, normal sump pumps do not provide much help as there is always more water to pump.

This Eco-Flo products EPC50 sump pump with its high flow rate may just be the right one for you. Because apparently, it has a 5000 GPH flow rate which can handle the higher heights for pumping water too. And, to back it up, there is the ½ HP motor too. All in all, you get a very powerful sump pump top deal with a mess.

When you first receive the pedestal sump pump, you may feel anxious as quite often, you receive the pump- in a damaged box. In most cases, the pump itself is undamaged but it is best if you test run it right away. Apart from that, you will have to tighten a few screws before you turn it on. Or else, it won’t function the way it should and make a lot of sounds.

The float switch on this unit is top-mounted and adjustable. It does a great job of activating the unit when necessary. Furthermore, this unit has many certifications for safety. Thus, you can rely on it. It can deal with solids well and the discharge tube requirement is also quite common.

Installation won’t be hard as long as you tighten the screws up. The durability of this unit is not so assured as it may rust over time. It offers moderate value for the price it comes at.

Reasons to get
  • Quite a powerful motor.
  • Works at a very good speed.
  • Good lift.
  • The float switch works great.
  • Overload motor protection system installed
  • Good value for the price.
Reasons to avoid
  • It may not be very durable as it rusts.
  • It may arrive damaged with loose screws.

 

4. ECO-FLO Products EPP50 1/2 HP Pedestal Sump Pump

ECO-FLO Products EPP50 Pedestal Sump Pump with Vertical Float Switch

 

You may get confused between the last one and this one. The last one is EPC50 while this one is EPP50. Yes, there are differences between the two. The difference mainly lies in the amount of solid this unit can handle.

If you do not deal with muddy water in the basement much then the EPP50 may be a better choice. Because it pumps 3/16 inch solids while the discharge remains the same at 1-1/2 inch FNPT.

When it comes to power, this unit is as powerful as the last one. In fact, it has a power of 0.5 HP. One of the strongest powers out there.

Apart from that, it is very fast too. More than the last as it deals with fewer solids- 5000 GPH keeps the basement dry faster. It can handle the heights of pumping water well too.

The unit is made of plastic and needs 115 volts to work. Now, plastic does not rust but it can break. And, one common problem with this brand is that their delivery service and packaging is not the best. Therefore, you may find a damaged product.

Other than that, you may have some difficulty when installing because it does not come pre-assembled and you will have to buy some of its parts separately. As for the price, the unit is quite affordable.

Reasons to get
  • It is very powerful.
  • Good at lifting.
  • Very quiet in operation.
  • Very fast.
  • It offers good value for the money.
  • The float switch is efficient.
  • Overload protection
Reasons to avoid
  • Not the easiest to install.
  • Damaged packaging.
  • It handles less solid than the previous version.
  • It may overheat.

 

5. Zoeller 84-0001 Old Faithful 84 Pedestal Sump Pump

Zoeller 84-0001 Old Faithful 84 Pedestal Pump

 

Want a sump pump that does not need much care and maintenance? Then, this Zoeller 84-0001 pedestal sump pump with its lubricated and enclosed motor may be of great use to you. Let not the lack of effort fool you into thinking this does not work well. Because it does work very well.

It has a powerful motor of 0.5 HP which helps this unit do its job really well. Moreover, the flow rate of 59 GPM makes it quite a fast motor too. But you can still use it for light work.

When it comes to installation, this unit will be very easy to install. Because it has most of the standard requirements. For example, the required dimension for set up and discharge pipes is common. So, no trouble there.

Using this unit is very easy too as the float switch does an excellent job. What it does fail at times is keeping quiet. It can get a bit noisy when it is working.

When it comes to durability, the unit really lasts. It has a thermoplastic and cast-iron build which keeps it quite strong and sturdy. However, it sure is a bit more expensive than the others.

Reasons to get
  • It does not require much maintenance.
  • The motor is quite powerful.
  • It is quite fast.
  • Good quality build that lasts.
  • Easy and usual installation.
  • The chemically-resistant polyethylene float operates a positive displacement switch
Reasons to avoid
  • A bit noisy.
  • Quite expensive.

 

6. Zoeller 585-0005 Aquanot II Battery Backup Pedestal Sump Pump System

Zoeller 585-0005 Aquanot II Battery Backup Pedestal Sump Pump System with Electronic Charger

 

If you reside in a place where power outages are quite common then this Zoeller 585-0005 Aquanot backup battery sump pump may be something you want in your life. Apparently, it has a 12 Volt motor and the motor is as powerful as it mentions itself to be.

So, if you are alright with the power of the motor, this unit will satisfy you. Furthermore, it comes with the charger itself. And, this unit works very well when the power goes out- it comes into life instantly.

You will also know when it’s working as there is an alarm system in it. Apart from that, this unit is very easy to install. The motor has a power of 0.33 HP and a flow rate of 48 GPM. While these are not the maximum available in the market- they are adequate for many houses.

When it comes to price, the unit is very expensive, the most expensive on the list. But the problem is quality. Many people consider this unit cheaply made for the price it comes at.

Apart from that, you may have to make a few modifications to get the best out of this pump.

Reasons to get
  • Runs when the power goes out.
  • It comes with a charger.
  • Quite powerful.
  • Good speed.
  • Float switch does great.
Reasons to avoid
  • Very expensive.
  • May not be of the best quality.
  • Needs some modification.

 

Best Pedestal Sump Pumps: The Buying Guide

Here are a number of things you have to consider when you are out there looking for a pedestal sump pump.

The Material building the sump pump

As the sump pumps deal with a lot of dewatering applications, the material is an important consideration. Water can damage everything quite easy right? It can even take lives. So, it is best to make sure that the sump pump can deal with water.

There are usually three options you get to choose from. The first is plastic. It’s not any plastic we are talking about but a strong, thermoplastic. The best thing about this material is that it is cheap and does not rust but it can break easily.

The other two are cast iron and steel. With iron in the build, they can give in to rust and corrosion over time. However, they are very durable and strong. You have to make sure that they won’t corrode based on the coating they have.

The Motor Capacity

It is no surprise that sump pumps have a motor in them. Apart from the functionality of the motor, you have one more thing to consider. It is the power of the motor.

You may have a small basement that does not face a lot of water. On the other hand, you may be living in a place where you get struck by storms quite often. The cases may be very different and therefore the need for power vary as well.

But it is always wise to settle for a higher power or at least a moderate one. For example, ½ Horsepower motors are capable of dealing with a lot of trouble. On the other hand, if you do not need very frequent help then ¾, 1/3 HP motors can be alright for you as well.

It is up to you and what you need for your basement to decide what power is right for you.

The Flow rate of the Motor

You will usually find the flow rate of the motor mentions in Gallons Per Hour (GPH). Now, it is quite easy to understand that the higher the flow rate, the faster the machine will work for you. If the water is highly aggressive in your area, you definitely need a higher flow rate.

But, that is not all that you have to consider. In fact, the pump often has to raise the water to a certain height to get rid of it. Now, the higher it has to pump the water, the greater the power and flow rate needed.

Therefore, when you are looking at the flow rate that seems right, make sure you consider the height the water has to reach as well. Because it will ask the sump pump for more power and flow rate. Or else, the pump will fail in its job.

The type of Switch in it

Pedestal Pumps have float switches in them which activates them when the water rises to a certain level. The functionality and efficiency of the float switch matter a lot. Because if the float switch comes off or does not work as it should- the sump pump will not do its job when it’s utterly necessary.

Therefore, you have to choose whether you want a vertical float switch or a tethered one. The type does not really matter but how well-built and well attached the switch is what matters most in this case.

The Power Supply Source

Sump pumps either run using the electricity by being connected to the source or it runs using a battery. If your area experiences power outages often when the water in the basement rises then it is best if you get a sump pump with a battery backup in it.

Or else, you can totally rely on the electrically powered unit. But, you should know that battery backup do not have as much power as the primary pump. So, usually, you cannot use a battery backup for the primary purpose. You usually have to pair the backup with an electric primary unit.

The Features you may need

Sump pumps may seem like unsmart machines that are just meant to do their job in the basement. Actually, you have to be in contact with it to know what’s going on in your basement. Firstly, the unit itself should be easy to install.

You have to make sure that it is the right one for your basement and will not require major adjustments. If you are buying a backup unit then make sure the unit is compatible with the primary unit. Apart from that, there are other features you have to look at.

Firstly, the alarm system. It will let you know when the sump pump is active when it is low on battery when it is done with a cycle. This is necessary so that you know that the pump is working before a mess occurs.

Secondly, you can look for WiFi connectivity. This will help you get updates without you even visiting the basement. Lastly, you can look for LCD displays so that you can easily know what to do with the sump pump and where you are with it.

Apart from all these, you may look for more features like safety features that prevent the unit from overheating or ones that keep the battery safe.

How To Install Pedestal Sump Pumps

To know more in depth about sump pump installation, check this installation guide.

Best Pedestal Sump Pumps: The Benefits

Why buy a pedestal sump pump instead of a submersible one? Here’s why.

  • For Longevity: Submersible sump pumps are located in the water while most of the parts of the pedestal sump pump stay above it. As a result, it is less exposed to the water and thus its parts are more protected from rust and corrosion.
  • More affordable: Compared to the submersible models, pedestal sump pumps are more affordable.
  • Less Energy: If you are concerned about bills and the environment then know that these pumps use less energy compared to the submersible ones. You are basically doing the earth a favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Pedestal Sump Pumps Function the Same Way as Submersible Sump Pumps?

Answer: Yes, both pedestal sump pumps and submersible sump pumps work have the same working principle. The difference comes in the placement. Pedestal sump pumps stand at ground level beside the sump pit where as submersible sump pumps go into the sump pit. If you compare them component wise then you will get the same components as well in both types. Also in case of pedestal sump pumps you don’t need to be worried much about the dimension of sump basin.

In conclusion

You see, there are many considerations when you are out to look for the best pedestal sump pump out there. Individual preferences will make this choice very subjective. According to us, the best one is the Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09. It does not offer the maximum capacity but what it offers, it offers in a good form.

The trouble with it occurs with the length of the rod and such similar minor issues. The unit itself is very durable and also affordable.

We wish you safety from any water damage and basement flooding issue!