When choosing a 1/3 hp pedestal sump pump, look for reliability, ease of use, and suitable discharge options for your sump pit. This guide highlights five solid options well-suited for home basements, crawl spaces, and utility rooms. The best picks balance automatic float operation, simple installation, and durable construction. The buyer intent is clear: find a dependable pedestal sump pump that fits a 12″ diameter pit and handles typical residential water removal tasks. Below is a quick summary of the chosen products to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Discharge | GPM (approx.) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pedestal Sump Pump Thermoplastic Pedestal Pump 1/3 HP | 1-1/4″ FNPT | 45 at 5 ft | Basement flood prevention, adjustable start level |
| Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible | 3/4″ Garden Hose Adapter | Up to 2160 GPH | Spare basement dewatering, pools and hot tubs |
| Goulds WEHT0318MP1 1/3 HP | 2″ NPT Discharge | Up to 70 GPM | High-temperature applications |
| AQUASTRONG 3/4 HP Sump Pump | 1-1/2″ NPT | Up to 4200 GPH | Heavy-duty basement flooding and larger pits |
| Red Lion RL-SP33PED 1/3 HP | 8′ Cord, 1/3 HP | Up to ~3300 GPH | Basins 13″ or larger |
Pedestal Sump Pump With Float Switch
This 1/3 HP pedestal pump operates with a vertical float switch, offering automatic start/stop as water rises. It delivers up to 45 GPM at 5 ft and 35 GPM at 15 ft, making it suitable for moderate basement flooding and sump applications in homes. Best for: homeowners needing a compact pedestal model that fits a 12″ diameter pit. Limitation: lower lift performance compared to higher-capacity units in very deep pits.
Acquaer 1/3 HP Automatic Submersible
This 1/3 HP automatic submersible is designed for basement flooding and swimming pool areas, offering compatibility with garden hose adapter usage. Best for: households needing a compact, submersible option that can handle outdoor and indoor water transfer. Limitations: not a pedestal unit; installation differs from pedestal models, which may impact pit compatibility.
Goulds WEHT0318MP1 1/3 HP
This high-temperature model by Goulds adds a temperature-resistant option with a 2″ discharge, suitable for environments where hot liquids are present. Best for: applications involving elevated temperatures or industrial-style basins. Caution: higher voltage and specialized use may require professional electrical considerations.
AQUASTRONG 3/4 HP Sump Pump
This 3/4 HP model from AQUASTRONG offers high flow rates up to 4200 GPH with a piggy-back float switch and a 1-1/2″ NPT discharge. Best for: basement flooding tasks in larger pits or properties needing faster water removal. Limitations: higher power draw than 1/3 HP pumps, so consider electrical wiring and energy use.
Red Lion RL-SP33PED Pedestal Pump
Red Lion’s RL-SP33PED is a 1/3 HP automatic pedestal pump with an 8-foot power cord and a built-in snap-action switch. Best for: basins 13″ or larger that require a dependable, automatic pedestal option. Limitation: discharge compatibility depends on pit setup and may require adapter fittings for certain drains.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Right 1/3 HP Pedestal Sump Pump
- Pit size compatibility: Ensure your sump pit diameter accommodates the pedestal unit (commonly 12″ or larger).
- Discharge connection: Match the discharge size to your drainage piping (1-1/4″ FNPT, 2″ NPT, or garden hose adapters as needed).
- Automatic operation: Look for a pedestal pump with a reliable float switch for hands-free operation in basements and crawl spaces.
- Material and temperature tolerance: Thermoplastic bodies suit damp environments; consider high-temperature models if hot liquids may be present.
- Flow rate vs. lift: Compare GPM at typical lift heights to ensure adequate removal in your pit depth.
- Cord length and accessibility: A longer power cord can simplify wiring in remote basements but ensure ground-fault protection where required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is a pedestal sump pump best used for?
A: Pedestal sump pumps are ideal when the motor is elevated, making maintenance easier and fit into shallow pits. They are commonly used for basic basement flooding and dewatering tasks. - Q: How do I know if a 1/3 HP model is enough?
A: If your sump pit is around 12″ in diameter and you expect typical household basement water, a 45 GPM performance at moderate lifts is often suitable. For larger or frequent flooding, consider higher-capacity options. - Q: Are pedestal pumps as effective as submersible models?
A: Pedestal pumps are reliable and easier to service, but submersible units are fully enclosed and can be quieter and more compact in some installations. Your pit shape and space will guide the choice. - Q: Can I install these pumps myself?
A: Basic pedestal pump installation is straightforward, but ensure electrical connections follow local codes and consider professional help for complex setups or high-temperature applications. - Q: What maintenance is needed?
A: Regularly check the float switch, clean the intake screen, and inspect the discharge line for blockages to maintain optimal performance. - Q: Do these units require a particular power supply?
A: Most 1/3 HP pedestal pumps run on standard 120V AC circuits, but verify voltage and circuit capacity in your area before installation.