Sump Pump Reviews
The Best Sump Pump Systems For Your Home Near Post Falls, Coeur D'Alene, Spokane, And Neighboring Areas!
Here's a model-by-model review of the four major sump pump models:
In today’s surge of basement flooding incidents, a multitude of sump pump systems have emerged, each tailored to combat this issue. As is customary in the contractor realm, there exists a spectrum of designs ranging from adequate to exceptional, with some undergoing obsolescence.
The most common sump pumps systems are:
- Pedestal Sump Pumps
- Submersible Sump Pumps
- Water-Powered Pumps
- "Floor Suckers"
Our Research & Development team at Basement Systems® has meticulously scrutinized every available sump pump model on the market to pinpoint the one we confidently endorse for waterproofing your basement.
Opting for a dependable, durable, and noise-free sump pump is crucial to prevent issues like moisture, unpleasant odors, and disruptive sounds emanating from the sump pit. By prioritizing these features, you ensure optimal protection against groundwater seepage and maintain a dry, secure basement environment.
Don’t hesitate to reach out today to schedule your sump pump system installation! We proudly serve Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, and a plethora of neighboring areas, including Cheney, Hayden, Sandpoint, Rathdrum, Deer Park, Mead, Veradale and nearby.
Here is our breakdown of four sump pump systems, outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each:
Pedestal Sump Pump Systems
Pedestal Sump Pumps operate outside water immersion, as they are designed to be mounted above the waterline. They feature a long line extending from the float switch down into the pit.
Lifespan
Reliability
Capacity
Noise
Lifetime Cost
Pump Pros
- Higher Capacity — Among the sump pump options on the market, pedestal sump pumps stand out for their higher capacity. They excel in efficiently managing heavy volumes of water, surpassing the capabilities of certain other models.
Pump Cons
- Frequent Malfunctions — Low-end pedestal pumps have gained notoriety for premature burnout issues. Additionally, they are prone to “wandering” within their sump pits, potentially leading to jammed switches that either remain stuck in the on or off position.
- Noisy Operation — As the motor of pedestal pumps resides outside the sump pit, any noise generated by the pump cannot be mitigated by a lid. Typically situated in open pits, pedestal pumps allow for the ingress of odors and humidity.
Submersible Sump Pump Systems
Submersible sump pumps are designed to be installed within a sump pit and operate while submerged in water. Immersion in water helps to cool the unit, thereby reducing the risk of burnouts. Additionally, covering the sump pit can aid in noise reduction.
Lifespan
Reliability
Capacity
Noise
Lifetime Cost
Pump Pros
- High Capacity Operation — Submersible sump pumps are characterized by their high capacity, effectively keeping basements or crawl spaces dry. When paired with a battery backup submersible pump, they offer superior protection compared to other available models.
- Long Lifespan — Due to the cast iron housing surrounding the motor, submersible pumps can naturally dissipate heat into the water. This self-cooling mechanism enhances their longevity and ensures reliable protection for your home.
Pump Cons
- Initial Investment — Although submersible sump pumps boast an extended lifespan surpassing several generations of similar pumps, their initial investment cost is slightly higher compared to comparable alternatives.
Water-Powered Sump Pumps
Water-Powered Sump Pumps are typically installed above the sump pit and operate using your home’s water supply instead of electricity. These systems rely on the water pressure in your home’s plumbing system to provide pumping capacity.
Lifespan
Reliability
Capacity
Noise
Lifetime Cost
Pump Pros
- Runs Without Electricity — Water-powered sump pumps function by utilizing your local water supply to aid in discharging water, enabling them to operate during power outages. However, they typically consume 3-5 gallons of water for each gallon of groundwater discharged.
- Long Lifespan — Water-powered sump pumps are renowned for their longevity and durability, ensuring continuous operation for many years to come.
Pump Cons
- Low Pumping Capacity — Regrettably, water-powered sump pumps operate at a relatively low capacity. In instances of heavy rains or high water volumes, these systems can quickly become overwhelmed.
- Requires High Home Water Pressure — The effectiveness of water-powered sump pumps is significantly impacted by the water pressure in your home. In cases of low water pressure, these pumps may not function optimally. Furthermore, during temporary losses of water pressure, they may fail to operate entirely.
"Floor Sucker" Sump Pump Systems
“Floor Sucker” Sump Pumps are typically activated only after the basement has already flooded. They serve as emergency pumps, commonly utilized by contractors and homeowners to extract water from the floor before implementing a more robust waterproofing system.
Lifespan
Reliability
Capacity
Noise
Lifetime Cost
Pump Pros
- Requires No Sump Pit or French Drain — “Floor Sucker” sump pumps are placed directly on the basement floor, eliminating the necessity for installing a perimeter French drain or sump pit.
- No Installation Time — These pumps are readily available for immediate use, rendering them an excellent choice for emergency situations or for clearing out flooded waters before implementing an alternative system.
Pump Cons
- Does Not Stop Flooding — This pump initiates operation only after your basement has flooded with more than 1/8″ of water, which may not be suitable if you’re seeking to keep your basement consistently dry. Therefore, if you’re investing in basement drying solutions, this may not be the most effective option.
- Loud & Low Capacity — These low-end models are typically not equipped to handle heavy floods effectively. Moreover, the operation of the pump, accompanied by sucking sounds and discharge line activity, can result in considerable noise during operation.
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