How To Choose The Right Pump
- Just because a pump is rated by horse power does not mean that all 1/4 HP pump the same gallons per minute (GPM). This is especially true for Zoeller Pumps. Their motors use only 80% of their capacity and still pump more water than other HP rated competition.
- Next time it rains check what size pump you really need. Here's what you can do to check the size pump needed.
- Put a yardstick in the pit, measure the distance from the basin floor to the top of the water when the pump stops running. (Point 1)
- Then measure the distance to the top of the water when the pump starts running. (Point 2)
- Subtract Point 1 from Point 2. This is gallons pumped per pumping cycle. (Calculation A)
- Then measure the diameter (width) of your basin. If the diameter is 18 inches, multiply Calculation A by 1; If the diameter is 24 inches, multiply Calculation A by 2. One inch equals one gallon in an 18 inch diameter pit and one inch in a 24 inch diameter pit equals two gallons. (Calculation B)
- Then time how frequently the pump runs (Calculation C). If it runs every 15 seconds, multiply Calculation C by 4 (60 seconds (one minute) divided by 15 seconds). The result is how many gallons of water is pumped per minute from the basin. For example, Point A is 4 inches. Point B is 12 inches. So the result is (12 - 4 = 8). Calculation D (number of gallons pumped per minute) times 4 times per minute is 32 gallons (8 * 4).
- Check the manufacturers published pump performance curve. Find the vertical height the pit water must be pumped vertically from the pit. The pump performance chart indicates the models GPM or GPH pumping capability at that vertical height.
Enjoy your shopping. Find the sump pump that meets your pumping need from the large pumps selection below.