How to Select the Correct Sump Pump

The most important aspect when selecting the correct sump pump involves the size of its motor. Motors of various horsepower expel water from a basement; some perform the task more efficiently than others. Three of the most popular-sized motors operate with less than 1 horsepower. A stronger motor provides the power to move more gallons of water per hour out of a basement.

• 1

  Evaluate the amount of water entering your basement. A sump pump with a 1/4-horsepower motor can handle the needs of a basement that collects little or no water over the course of a year. A motor of this size protects against seepage that occurs rarely.

• 2

  Check to see if your home had a sump pump installed before you purchased it. Sump pumps found in existing homes normally have a 1/3-horsepower motor. This represents the most popular-sized motor for residential use. A motor of this size handles normal runoff from rain, snow and ice.

• 3

  Assess your needs if your pump motor runs continuously. Choose a sump pump with a more powerful motor. A 1/2-horsepower motor will remove 3,000 gallons of water per hour. People in homes near flood plains use sump pumps with motors of this size.