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Every homeowner with a pool or garden should have a water pump as it is a practical and handy tool. These pumps are also known by other names such as drain pumps, water transfer pumps, or a submersible pumps. Water pumps generally do all this and ensure that you maintain your hot tub or spa easily.
Best Utility Pumps
Here is the list of the 11 best utility pumps that can help you tackle any water-related job with ease.
1. WAYNE Submersible Cast Iron and Steel Sump Pump - Best for Durable Debris Management
WAYNE CDU790 - 1/3 HP Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless...
The Wayne’s CDU790 Submersible water pump comes with a mechanical float switch that provides reliable operation. The top suction strainer will filter all debris and prevent it from getting into the pump tank and clogging it.
This hot tub pump doesn’t require any weep holes and the cast iron seal plate helps in preventing water leaks and corrosion. If you’re looking for a water pump that is durable and reliable, this is a good option, and it also helps in removing debris so that it doesn’t clog the pump system.
Pros
- Made from durable materials
- Eliminates any air locking and clogging
- The pump doesn’t need any weep holes
Cons
- Some problems when it comes to the pump’s switch
- A check valve is recommended to be used
Dimensions: 10.5" x 9" x 11" | Weight: 16lbs | Material: Cast Iron | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 120V | Horsepower: 0.3HP
2. Wayne Automatic Electric Water Removal Pump - Best for Unattended Use
Wayne EEAUP250 1/4 HP Reinforced Thermoplastic Submersible...
The Wayne 57729 is an automatic electric water pump that comes with a switch technology, which manages to turn the pump on and off whenever it senses running water. The pump conveniently runs on 1/4 maximum horsepower and produces a flow rate of 3,000 gallons per hour.
The submersible water pump is from reinforced sealed thermoplastic construction, ensuring that you don’t need to worry about the service life of this pump.
Pros
- Fully submersible
- Made of corrosion-resistant materials
- Can be left unattended since it can automatically sense the water level
Cons
- Requires more energy to run
- Has the tendency to overheat
Dimensions: 6.5" x 6.5" x 12" | Weight: 8.56lbs | Material: Thermoplastic | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 100V | Horsepower: 1HP
3. ECO-FLO Products SUP55 Water Pumps - Best for Energy Efficiency
ECO-FLO Products SUP55 Manual Submersible Utility Pump, 1/4...
The ECO-FLO utility pump is one of the best in the market and has been designed for numerous residential uses. It’s a great water pump for running a hot tub because it uses less energy but is highly energy efficient when you compare it with other hot tub pumps.
The materials of this water pump are made from corrosion-resistant thermoplastic, which ensures that it provides you with long service life.
Pros
- Can be used around the house and in different hot tub installations
- Made of plastic and rubber components
- Needs less energy to operate
Cons
- Manually operated
- There are no on and off switches
- Can overheat when ran dry
Dimensions: 6.5" x 6.5" x 11.8" | Weight: 7lbs | Material: Plastic | Power Source: AC/DC | Voltage: 115V | Horsepower: 0.25HP
4. Wayne Electric Water Removal Pump - Best for Handling Solids
WAYNE VIP50 - 1/2 HP Reinforced Thermoplastic Submersible...
The Wayne VIP50 Electric water pump is constructed from a durable thermoplastic material that’s recommended to be used with any water removal system. This pump is a 1/2 horsepower submersible water pump that can be used to handle 3/8-inch solids without getting clogged.
The great thing about the Wayne VIP50 is that it can easily pump up to 2,500 gallons of water per hour and can also remove water down to 1/8-inch of the surface.
Pros
- It’s fully submersible
- Corrosion-resistant and durable
- Made from sealed thermoplastic construction materials
Cons
- The design of the pump can shorten the service life
- Needs over 2.5 inches of water before it will pump
Dimensions: 7″ x 7.25″ x 12.4″ | Weight: N/A | Material: Iron | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 100V | Horsepower: 0.5HP
5. WAYNE WWB WaterBUG Submersible Pump - Best for Tight Spaces
WAYNE WaterBUG 1/6 HP 1350 GPH Submersible Multi-Flo...
The Wayne WWB WaterBUG has multi-flow technology that makes it easier for you to easily select the appropriate discharge for any application. The top discharge is great for top spaces, and the side discharge is great for removing water from flat open surfaces.
The head of the water can move up to 30 feet and handle water up to 1,257 gallons per hour. It’s a great pump that can be ideally used in tight spaces and limited areas.
Pros
- Top and side discharges are designed for specific usage
- Can also be used to eliminate stagnant water in your backyard
- Can handle up to 30 feet of the head of the water
Cons
- The motor of the pump tends to overheat
- Expensive compared to other pumps that are available in the market
Dimensions: 11" x 11" x 10" | Weight: 6lbs | Material: Thermoplastic | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 120V | Horsepower: 0.16HP
6. SumpMarine UTP Portable Transfer Water Pump
SumpMarine Water Transfer Pump, 115V 330 Gallon Per Hour -...
The SumpMarine transfer water pump is a heavy-duty 1-horsepower water pump that runs at 115-voltage and can manage to pump nearly 330 gallons per hour of water. The water pump is made of durable materials with metal hose connectors. The portable water pump is lightweight in nature, allowing it to be transferred anywhere.
This is a great option for a utility pump, especially if you have more than one permanent or inflatable installation of hot tubs, and are looking to save on operational costs.
Pros
- Has a 330 gallon per hour of water pumping capacity
- The power cord included in the initial purchase is long enough
- Portable and can be transferred among the area.
Cons
- No switch for powering the pump on or off.
- There’s no auto shut-off if it runs without any water.
Dimensions: 8" x 8" x 7.5" | Weight: 5.79lbs |Material: Thermoplastic | Power Source: AC | Voltage: 115V | Horsepower: 1HP
7. Yescom Submersible Dirty Clean Water Pump
Yescom 1HP Submersible Water Pump 3434GPH 750W Clean/Dirty...
The Yescom water pump easily runs on 110 voltage and is oil-cooled and durable. The water pump has a 1 horsepower electric motor, and the heavy-duty motor can run underwater up to 28 feet. It comes with a built-in automatic shutoff mechanism and is engineered with resin construction.
It’s the perfect utility pump for temporary installations, such as inflatable hot tubs, and garden hoses. The low horsepower capacity makes it easier for the pump to be installed easily.
Pros
- Compact yet powerful
- Made of resin-graded materials
- Relatively inexpensive in comparison to other brands
Cons
- Some complaints regarding the float switch
Dimensions: 16.15" x 9.45" x 7.88" | Weight: 12.74lbs | Material: Plastic | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 110V | Horsepower: 1HP
8. Superior Pump 91250
Superior Pump 91250 1/4 HP Thermoplastic Submersible Utility...
The Superior Pump 91250 does justice to its name for being a superior utility pump. This water pump can easily move up to 1,800 gallons of water per hour. Its head can go up to 25 feet underwater. It comes with a 1 and 1/4-inch NPT discharge, along with a 3/4-inch garden hose adapter to improve flow rate.
The Superior Pump 91250 is made from tough thermoplastic materials that can withstand both pressure and heat. It also comes with a removable suction screen, which can easily handle solids, while you can be assured that the utility pump will serve you for a long time.
Pros
- Designed for consistent and residential use
- Has continuous-functioning motors
- Rugged and compact design for extra durability
Cons
- The cord included with the product is short
- Can become too powerful if not adjusted properly
Dimensions: 12" x 7" x 7" | Weight: 6.8lbs | Material: Thermoplastic | Power Source: AC | Voltage: 120V | Horsepower: 0.25HP
9. Happybuy, 0.5HP Submersible Water Pump Kit
Happybuy 1/2 HP Submersible Well Pump 164ft Head 25.5 GPM...
The Happybuy submersible water pump is designed for both industrial and home use and is renowned for its powerful performance. The water pump comes with a stainless-steel house and cast-iron inlets and outlets that are designed to last for several years. The pump has a class-leading flow rate with more than 150 feet depth under surface and a powerful motor that can bring water up from any height.
The thermoplastic impellers, inlet screens, and diffusers give this pump thermal protection against heating and low energy consumption. There are 6 impellers that provide stable performance, while installation is quick and easy. You can use this pump for farmland irrigation or in the mountains, while it’s ideal for rivers, reservoirs, canals, and deep wells too.
Pros
- Stainless steel and cast-iron body for enhanced durability
- Remarkable and stable performance
- Powerful motor to pump water from any height
- Easy and quick to install and use
Cons
- The instructions are a bit confusing
Dimensions: 1" x 4" x 27" | Weight: 22lbs | Material: Stainless Steel | Power Source: Battery-Powered | Voltage: 110V | Horsepower: 0.5HP
10. Homdox 1.5 HP Stainless Steel Submersible Water Sump Pump
1.5HP Stainless Steel Sump Pump Submersible Water Pump...
- HIGH EFFICIENCY: Great horsepower (1.5HP) and amazing...
- MULTI-OUTLET SIZE: Compatible with 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" hoses....
If you’re living in places that are frequently affected by floods, you need to get your hands on the Homdoz 1.5 HP stainless steel submersible sump pump. It operates at 115V providing it with maximum pumping power and is ideal for emptying ponds, flooded areas, and swimming pools.
The motor of the Homdox is wound with copper, which makes it efficient and durable. The water pump kit also comes with a 15 feet long power cord that can be used to acquire power from anywhere.
Pros
- It is made of steel body thus easy to clean
- Has a rust and corrosion-resistant motor
- The outlet can be used with larger hoses
- Has a floater that allows multiple applications
- Can be controlled using an automatic floater switch
Cons
- It is easy to get the coil burned if not handled with care
Dimensions: 16.93 x 15.98 x 7.99 | Weight: 12.1lbs | Material: Stainless Steel | Power Source: Battery-Powered | Voltage: 115V | Horsepower: 1.5HP
11. Site Drainer, Contractor 101T Fully Submersible Dewatering Pump
Site Drainer Pit Boss 101T, 1/2 HP, Non Clogging, Electric...
The Site Drainer will empty any sump area with its powerful submersible pump. The water pump can also be used for commercial and residential dewatering, infrastructure or construction projects, and industrial wastewater. The pump comes with stainless steel mesh that is great for preventing debris from getting in and clogging the pump. You are guaranteed to get long-lasting and trouble-free operation from the pump. Since it is compact and portable, you can carry it anywhere.
The pump comes completely assembled and ready to use whenever you want, as it has a stainless-steel case that is corrosion-resistant and rugged. It has an in-built protector and the power tool can also run dry without overheating.
Pros
- Suitable for different purposes and applications
- Stainless-steel mesh to prevent debris
- Long-lasting and trouble-free operation
- Rugged and corrosion-resistant construction
Cons
- Beginners may find it hard to use
Dimensions: 8.5" x 12" | Weight: 27.55lbs | Material: Aluminum | Power Source: AC | Voltage: 110V | Horsepower: 0.5HP
Best Utility Pumps Comparison Table
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Material | Power Source | Voltage | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WAYNE Submersible Utility Pump | 10.5" x 9" x 11" | 16lbs | Cast Iron | Corded Electric | 120V | 0.3HP |
| Wayne Automatic Electric Utility Pump | 6.5" x 6.5" x 12" | 8.56lbs | Thermoplastic | Corded Electric | 100V | 1HP |
| ECO-FLO Products SUP55 Water Pumps | 6.5" x 6.5" x 11.8" | 7lbs | Plastic | AC/DC | 115V | 0.25HP |
| Wayne Electric Utility Pump | 7" x 7.25" x 12.4" | N/A | Iron | Corded Electric | 100V | 0.5HP |
| WAYNE WWB WaterBUG | 11" x 11" x 10" | 6lbs | Thermoplastic | Corded Electric | 120V | 0.16HP |
| SumpMarine UTP | 8" x 8" x 7.5" | 5.79lbs | Thermoplastic | AC | 115V | 1HP |
| Yescom Submersible Utility Pump | 16.15" x 9.45" x 7.88" | 12.74lbs | Plastic | Corded Electric | 110V | 1HP |
| Superior Pump 91250 | 12" x 7" x 7" | 6.8lbs | Thermoplastic | AC | 120V | 0.25HP |
| Happybuy, 0.5HP Utility Pump | 1" x 4" x 27" | 22lbs | Stainless Steel | Battery-Powered | 110V | 0.5HP |
| Homdox 1.5 HP Utility Pump | 16.93 x 15.98 x 7.99 | 12.1lbs | Stainless Steel | Battery-Powered | 115V | 1.5HP |
| Site Drainer, Contractor 101T Utility Pump | 8.5" x 12" | 27.55lbs | Aluminum | AC | 110V | 0.5HP |
Buying Guide For The Best Utility Pump
There’s quite a difference between the best utility pump and a cheap utility pump, which makes it harder to choose one. To make things easier, we’ve included a buyer’s guide for utility pumps:
How to Choose the Right Water Transfer Pump
There are several things you must check when selecting a utility pump, especially for use in a pool or a hot tub. Picking the best water pump may sound complicated to you but it’s not rocket science. All you need to keep an eye on is the speed of the pump, the horsepower requirement of your frame, voltage, tub, and plumbing size. Here are the specifications you must consider first:
· Type of Discharge
Utility pumps are classed based on the type of discharge, which can be from the side or the top. The side discharge pumps are applicable for open and flat surfaces such as water build-up on the yard, decks, and basements. On the other hand, top discharge pumps are suitable for tight spaces like spas, pools, laundry tubs, wells, and hot tubs.
· Supervision Requirement
Most advanced pumps aren’t equipped with sensors that would automatically turn off the pump when the surface turns nearly dry or dry. Some pumps don’t have a sensor system and if left unattended, the power generator will quickly start to overheat.
· Manner of Water Usage
It’s important that you know whether it’s going to be a dirty or clean operation because there are pumps made for ‘clean water only’ and they can’t be interchanged for any other purpose. You can use these multi-purpose pumps to cover all types of operations.
· Speed of the Pump
Hot tub pumps generally have 1 or 2 speeds and you’ll find this information written on the AMPS listed on the side of the pump or in the owner’s manual of the pump. The pump has 2 speeds if there are two numbers listed there. The speed gives you a good idea of the flow rate and how strong the pump is going to be to drain large volumes of water from your hot tub, pond, or swimming pool.
Manual utility pumps require user intervention to turn on and off, while automatic pumps have a built-in float switch that activates the pump when the water level reaches a certain height and turns it off when the water is sufficiently low. Always read the user manual before operating a utility pump. Ensure the pump is in good working condition, do not use damaged power cords or plugs, and make sure the pump is compatible with the liquid being transferred. Avoid operating the pump in extremely hot or cold environments and do not use the pump for flammable, toxic, or corrosive liquids. Most utility pumps are designed to handle clean or slightly dirty water. However, some pumps, known as trash pumps, are built to handle water with solid debris, such as leaves or small stones. Read the pump specifications to ensure it meets your needs. Regular maintenance varies depending on the pump type and usage. Generally, it’s best to inspect your pump for signs of wear or damage every few months and clean it as necessary. Consult the user manual for specific maintenance requirements.Utility Pumps FAQs
What are the differences between manual and automatic utility pumps?What safety precautions should I follow when using a utility pump?Can I use a utility pump to drain a hot tub or pool?Can utility pumps handle solid materials or only liquids?How often should I maintain my utility pump?
Conclusion
As we draw to a close of our in-depth look at the best utility pumps, it's evident that the choice of a good utility pump largely depends on various factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and the ability to handle debris.
From the above 11 best utility pumps, here are the top three expert recommendations:
The WAYNE Submersible Cast Iron and Steel Sump Pump is an ideal option for those who need a durable and reliable debris management system. The pump is made from robust materials, offers a reliable mechanical float switch, and ensures consistent performance.
For anyone needing an unattended water pump system, the Wayne Automatic Electric Water Removal Pump is a good option. With its ability to sense water levels and turn them on and off automatically, this pump offers convenience and is made from corrosion-resistant materials.
Finally, the ECO-FLO Products SUP55 Water Pump is the right choice for someone looking for energy efficiency. The pump consumes less energy but still provides powerful performance. Made from corrosion-resistant thermoplastic, you can trust its service life.
With these three top-notch utility pumps, you can find the perfect fit for your specific requirements. So, select the best one for your needs and enjoy the benefits of a reliable and effective pump for any water removal or management task that arises.
Now that you’ve checked the reviews and considered the buyer’s guide, you won’t have any problems finding the best utility pump for yourself. Check out our other article on how utility pumps work, to know more on the specific topic.
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