Best Pedestal Sump Pumps Reviewed

Pedestal Sump Pumps Compared

Benefits of Using Pedestal Sump Pump in Your Home

Pedestal Sump Pump Buyer’s Guide

Frequency of Use

When shopping for a new sump pump, be sure to consider how regularly you need to use such a piece of home preservation equipment. If your basement floods during all or most seasons, then a pedestal sump pump may be warranted. However, if your basement only floods during rainy or wet seasons, then a submersible sump pump may meet your needs with more precision.

Compatibility with Primary Pump

If you already have a primary pump system in place, always ensure that your chosen model is fully compatible with it. This includes ensuring that your new sump pump will not draw too much electricity through the primary pump and cause it to short. Also, ensure that both appliances utilize similar piping or hoses so that there is little to no risk for leaks.

Durability

Drain Rate & Pump Capacity

Be sure to check if your desired sump pump model has enough capacity to pump out water as it enters your basement or sump space. This can difficult to test before buying. That being said, most models list a "GPH" rating that communicates how many gallons of water that that model can process in one hour.

Power Rating

A pedestal sump pump's power rating can be absolutely essential because its motor is located above, not below, the outlet hose. As such, it is crucial to identify models with at least a 1/3 horsepower motor. However, if your sump space is any further than a few feet below floor level, then you really should invest in a ½ HP or ¾ HP model.

Price & Warranty

When it comes to picking out a new sump pump, you shouldn’t cut corners to try to save a few bucks. That being said, you should still look for a model that packs in a lot of value. Ideally, your top pick should provide enough durability and performance to justify its price point. In addition, a slightly pricier model with an extended warranty could end up saving you money down the line.

1. WaterAce WA50CPED

I may as well start with my top pick, which I wholeheartedly recommend to most clients who are considering the use of a pedestal sump pump. If you've done any research on your own, you could probably guess that I’m talking about the WaterAce WA50CPED.

This model has become the gold standard for this class of sump pumps, primarily because its zinc-plated column and its corrosion-resistant properties help it remain durable long-term. But that’s not all! The WaterAce WA50CPED can process a remarkable 5,000 GPH of water, which allows it to handle the most frequent and intense basement floods with precision. 

Not only that, but this model has a larger-than-average pump opening that allows 3/8 inch solids through without clogging. Though it may lack a listed float switch range, I can confidently say that the top-mounted placement of that switch makes it ideal for adjustment post-installation.

2. WaterAce WA33PPED

Up next is the WaterAce WA33PPED, which remains a top rated option that shoppers on a budget should take a look at. For the most part, this model utilizes the same core components as its slightly pricier counterpart, including its 115-volt motor. However, that motor is only clocked to 1/3 HP in this model, making it ideal for users who don't want to overload their in-home electric grid.

This model also utilizes thermoplastics throughout its exterior case, thus allowing it to resist rust with ease. Some prospective users of the WaterAce WA33PPED might be disappointed to see that this model is only rated for 3,480 GPH. 

While this may feel meager, shoppers who want to stay on budget shouldn’t let this lower specification scare them away. In fact, if you only experience a flood risk once or twice a year, you really only need about this much sumping capacity. You may need to shift this unit back into place occasionally, though, due to its lighter overall weight.

3. Zoeller 84-0001

If you’re in search of the best 1/2 HP pedestal sump pump, you’ll find it right here with the Zoeller 84-0001. This Zoeller 1/2 HP pedestal sump pump has a lot to offer in terms of core operation, starting with its 3540 GPH pump capacity. This is made possible by this model’s metal-enclosed split-phase motor, which reliably performs at the top of its capacity without overheating.

This motor has even been permanently lubricated to prevent it from seizing up at a critical moment. The Zoeller 84-0001 is also one of the only models on the market right now that is available with comparable specifications and price points while still offering essential durability options. 

Specifically, this model comes with the option to choose a cast iron or thermoplastic base, depending on how much you expect your sump pump to be used. However, as a tradeoff, both iterations of this model are more expensive than others in their class.

Our complete guide to Zoeller Sump Pumps can be found here.

4. Superior Pump 92551

5. Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09

The Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09 remains a decently popular thermoplastic model that shouldn’t be overlooked by any means. In fact, homeowners who are looking to save a little extra on their sump pump installation will be pleased to see that this model only costs about a 1/3 of its competitors, which gives it a price tag under $100. For that price, you actually receive some pretty impressive specifications, too, including 1/3 HP motor.

Many other plumbers I know keep at least one Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09 in stock at all times. That's because it is fully able to replace almost any other brand or type of pedestal sump pump without sacrificing any capability. All you'll need if you want to install the Flotec FPPM3600D-01/09 is a 12” pre-dug sump pit. From there, this model’s installation guide makes it easy to get up and running in a matter of hours.

6. ECO-FLO EPP50

Last, but certainly not least, I want to draw your attention to the ECO-FLO EPP50. This model is a real workhorse that can help remedy a severe in-home flooding situation in a pinch. That's because this model can handle 5,000 gallons of water per hour while running at its ½ HP motor's maximum capacity. With specifications like that, you'd hardly believe that this kind of fully capable pedestal sump pump is priced at just over $50.

That being said, that low, low price might have a second benefit when it comes time to replace the ECO-FLO EPP50. That’s because this model’s thermoplastics are not the most durable, making it necessary to replace this unit around once every 5 years. You won’t likely need to replace it because of a severe clog, at the very least, because the ECO-FLO EPP50’s vortex-style intake prevents debris from building up around the intake point.

How Pedestal Sump Pumps Work

Pedestal sump pumps operate in a manner fairly similar to your traditional sump pump. However, rather than submerging the entire unit into the sump space, a pedestal sump pump’s primary components are installed above the floor, while an inlet hose is dropped into the sump space.

When activated, these units operate just like their submerged counterparts, with the added bonus that they are easier to control while they run.

Essential Pedestal Sump Pump Parts

Impeller

The impeller is a propeller-like component attached to the base of the sump pump’s intake mechanism. It “pushes” water towards the intake pipe, thus allowing the entire appliance to accomplish its primary job more efficiently.

Float Rod

Like in a toilet, this mechanism reacts to raising or lowering water levels around the sump pump to engage or shut off the unit, respectively. More often than not, the float rod on a pedestal-style unit will be ball-shaped.

Brace

As its name implies, this part of the pedestal sump pump braces the entire unit against the base of your sump space. This allows the entire unit to remain stable, even when its motor is engaged.

Motor

As expected, this component provides the power needed to allow a sump pump to operate on its own. In a pedestal-style model, the motor is located above the floor, rather than attached to the intake mechanism.

Pedestal vs Submersible Sump Pumps

The differences between pedestal and submersible sump pumps are based upon their basic construction. Submersible models like these from Little Giant are more “unitary” in that their induction mechanism, motor, and float piece are all built into a single, dense unit. This unit is them submerged into the sump space, which is why most are sealed in a dense outer case made of a durable metal like cast iron.

Meanwhile, pedestal sump pumps are “tall” by comparison, with the intake point and float at the bottom end and the motor at the top. These models operate much like their submersible counterparts, save that their motor stays out of harm's way, and can be accessed even when the unit is actively pumping water.

Installation & Maintaining Pedestal Sump Pumps

People also Ask (FAQs)

What causes sump pump failure?

Sump pumps can fail for any number of reasons, including a sudden power outage in homes without a backup generator. Also, a lack of maintenance is prone to cause an unexpected failure, primarily because obstructions include rocks and dirt that can clog up a pump's intake point.

How long does a pedestal sump pump generally last?

Pedestal sump pumps can last anywhere between 5 and 15 years, depending on how well the unit is maintained and how regularly it is called into service. Overall, though, these units tend to last longer because its most vulnerable point, its motor, is not put in harm's way due to its above-ground installation point.

Do I need a plumber to set up a pedestal sump pump?

If you lack the confidence or skills to set up a sump pump, calling in a professional may be warranted. However, videos like this one can demonstrate how easy this task can be with just a few tools and a pre-dug sump pit.

Where is the best place to buy these sump pumps?

All of your local hardware stores, like Home Depot, Menards, Harbor Freight, and even Walmart, likely carry some sump pumps. However, if you want the best prices and the widest selection, Amazon is the way to go when you're looking to buy a sump pump. They carry several models from most of the leading brands and offer unbeatable shipping rates across the board.

Conclusion