Choosing the Right Sump Pump Size for Your Pumping Job

A sump pump is many homeowners' first, and most important, layer of protection against leakage and moisture in their basements. Although sump pumps are generally simple to maintain, it can be difficult for many homeowners to choose the right size pump. Everyone has different needs--some may live in homes where the foundation is below the water table, and some may live in an area that is particularly dry. A sump pump is not chosen based on the size of your home or basement but should be chosen based on the amount of moisture it will have to deal with.

Although when choosing a sump pump, people may frequently refer to its size, what is more important is the horsepower of its motor. The strength of its motor, not its size, determines how powerful it is, and should determine what you must look at when deciding what kind of sump pump you need.

Horsepower

Most sump pumps are sold based on the basis of the motor's power, not how big or small they are. The power of a sump pump is measured in horsepower. They are usually sold in increments out of 1 whole, such as 1/2 horsepower (hp), 1/3 horsepower, 1/4 horsepower, etc. Read the information below for a brief description of the most common "sizes."

• 1/3 horsepower: A 1/3 hp sump pump is standard. That is, if your home had a sump pump installed when you bought it, chances are that it is a 1/3 hp pump.

• 1/2 horsepower: A 1/2 hp sump pump is capable of removing at least 3,000 gallons of water per hour. It is one of the most powerful motors that is widely and commercially available. Although it is certainly possible to find pumps that are even stronger, there is rarely a need, for the average homeowner, for a pump that is stronger than 1/2 hp. Rather, if you are still having drainage issues with a 1/2 hp pump, the problem is likely with your sump pit and not with the pump itself.

• 1/4 horsepower: A 1/4 hp sum pump will be a great deal weaker than a 1/2 hp pump, and a little weaker than a 1/3 hp sump pump. Although problems with a pump being too strong are rare, a 1/4 hp pump might be ideal for homeowners on a budget who do not think that a larger pump is necessary for their home.

Which One is Right for You?

How much horsepower you need in your pump is based on several factors that you can probably determine for yourself. How much of your drainage system will be connected to the pump? How deep is the groundwater near your house? How deep is your basement? If the foundation of your home is below the water table, you will require a stronger pump than a person whose foundation is above the water table. If you're unsure about any aspect of your home's drainage system, there is nothing wrong with calling in a technician for a consultation.