Zoeller 1096 vs M98 Sump Pump

In many ways the 1096 is very much like the Zoeller M98. They both perform the same function; they look very similar and both have the same brand name. But when looking at their mechanics they do have differences. It is the differences that determine which is the best sump pump.

The following information explains how their similarities and differences compare.

Both of these models are made by Zoeller, however, they have several differences. The differences between these two pumps are both visual and functional. Knowing the differences makes it easier to decide which sump pump to purchase.

The usage of cast iron for the switch case which sits on top of the pump housing is different. This is something that cannot be detected by eye sight; however if a magnet is held to the 1096 switch case it will not stick. Another way to tell is to tap the pump housing and the switch case. The sound will be distinctly different.

 

- The 1096 switch case is made of thermoplastic.

- The M98 switch case is made of cast iron.

Thermoplastic does not dissipate heat generated by the snap action of the switch when activating the motor as well as cast iron does. This will cause the switch connectors to get hotter and wear faster and fail sooner since it is a mechanical part. Both models have been tested to run 1 million cycles before failure, but the M98 cast iron switch case will increase the life of the switch.

- The M98 has two layers of cast iron to dissipate motor heat during heaving continuous pumping. Both the motor housing and pump housing are cast iron.

 

- Model 1096 has one layer of housing: the motor housing which as the pump housing as well.

The additional cast iron pump housing for M98 helps with motor heat dissipation adds an additional eight pounds which keeps the pump more stationary during heavy continuous pumping.

Even though both sump pump are one-half horse power, M98 has a slightly more powerful motor.

At the time of this writing, the biggest surprise is the difference in price.

Choose your favorite way to learn how to install a Zoeller Sump Pump.

Our Zoeller M98 has been installed in a rental property since 2017 and has required no maintenance or repairs during that time. Although it operates in a sump pit where groundwater is not a significant issue, it has performed flawlessly whenever needed.

In recent years, the city improved the local storm water drainage system, which further reduces the amount of water entering the pit. As a result, the M98 does not accumulate nearly as many run cycles as the Zoeller M53 in our home, even during heavy rain events. Nevertheless, it has started and pumped reliably every time it has been called into service.

Our experience with the M98 has reinforced Zoeller's reputation for building durable, dependable cast iron sump pumps. One of the first things we noticed during installation was its substantial weight, which reflects its solid cast iron construction. We were also impressed by the well-designed protective guard around the float switch, which helps protect it from interference inside the sump pit.

While the M98 has not been tested as heavily as our M53, it has delivered years of reliable performance and remains completely trouble-free.

The model 1096-001 is made in Taiwan at the Zoeller owned Taiwan factory.

No, the Zoeller M98 will not fit properly in a 10-inch sump basin. The Zoeller M98 measures approximately 10.125 inches at its widest point, leaving no room for proper installation or float switch movement.

A sump pump should sit level in the basin and have adequate clearance from the pit wall so the float can move freely without getting stuck. While the M98 can fit in some 15-inch-wide sump pits, an 18-inch basin is generally recommended to ensure reliable operation and prevent float interference.

The extra weight of the Zoeller M98 comes from its cast iron construction, including the motor housing, switch case, and pump housing. The Zoeller M98 uses cast iron to improve durability, reduce vibration, and extend the overall lifespan of the pump.

Weight alone is not the most important factor when comparing sump pumps like the M98 and the Zoeller 1096. Performance factors such as maximum head height and pumping capacity are more important. In residential applications needing the extra lift capability the M98 is a solid choice.

No, the model 1096-001 is made in Taiwan at the Zoeller owned Taiwan factory.

Yes. Both pumps can pump water that comes from a washing machine, but they cannot be directly hooked up to the washing machine. The washing machine water must drain into the pump pit first. The vortex impeller will handle the lint..

The 1096-0001 uses 8.8 amps or 1,100 watts when running and 17 amps or 2200 watts when starting. M98 uses 9.8 amps to start and 4.7 amps when running.

No, the float cannot become waterlogged from a leak like a hollow float can. Both models use a solid polypropylene float, so even if the float is dented or damaged, it will not fill with water and lose buoyancy.

Because the float is made from a solid, seamless material rather than a hollow shell, there is no cavity for water to enter. This design helps prevent one of the most common causes of float switch failure and contributes to the long-term reliability of Zoeller sump pumps.

Yes, schedule 40 is recommended for the discharge pipe.

No, a check valve does not come with the 1096 or the M98. Adding a check valve to the discharge pipe is recommended. check valve extends the life of a sump pump.

The length of the electric cord for the 1096-0001 is 9 feet. The length of the electric cord for the M98 is 15 feet. An extension cord should not be used with a sump pump.

The 1096-0001 will discharge water up to a vertical height of 20 feet, but the pump performance will be very slow. The M98 will discharge water up to a vertical height of 23 feet, but the pump performance will be very slow. If the discharge pipe vertical height is 10 feet from the pump base, both models will pump 61 gallons a minute for each cycle or 3,660 gallons per hour continuously.

Yes, both sump pumps can be used outdoors as long as the electrical connections are protected from the environment.

Model 1096 weighs 30 pounds. M98 weighs 38 pounds because it has more cast iron.

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Price at the time of publish gives you an idea of what the price may be though it is subject to change.

Shop Zoeller USA Made Pumps M53 M57 M63 M98 M137

 

M53

M53 Submersible Sump Pump 1/3 HP Cast-Iron Vertical-Float-Switch 115v 9.7 Amps 2040 GPH @ 10 Ft 1.5 Inch-Discharge-Port 9 Ft Cord 1/2 In.-Solids-Handling Float-ON-7-1/4 In. Float-OFF-3-Inch No-Screen To-Clog-Vortex-Impeller Made In USA 100%
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Price At Time Of Publish $225.00.

 

M53

M53 Submersible Sump Pump 1/3 HP Cast-Iron Vertical-Float-Switch 115v 9.7 Amps 2040 GPH @ 10 Ft 1.5 Inch-Discharge-Port 9 Ft Cord with LED lighted Plug; 1/2 In.-Solids-Handling Float-ON-7-1/4 In. Float-OFF-3-Inch No-Screen To-Clog-Vortex-Impeller, Weighs 22 pounds, Made In USA 100%
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Price At Time Of Publish $215.00.

 

M57

M57 Submersible Sump Pump 1/3 HP Cast-Iron Vertical-Float-Switch 115v 9.7-Amps 2040 GPH @ 10 Ft 1.5 Inch Discharge Port 9-Ft-Cord 1/2 In. Solids Handling Float-ON-7 1/4 In. Float-OFF-3-Inch No-Screen-To-Clog-Vortex-Impeller Made In USA 100%
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Price At Time Of Publish $240.00.

SHOP ZOELLER SUMP PUMP REPLACEMENT SWITCH PARTS

 

004705

004705 Switch Assembly 50 No Gasket for Zoeller M53, M55, M57, and M59
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Price At Time Of Publish $42.00.

 

004892

004892 Switch Assembly And Gasket For Zoeller M53, M55, M57, M59, M98
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Price At Time Of Publish $57.00.

 

004740

004740 Replacement Switch For Zoeller M137 And M266 and M267 Sewage Pumps
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Price At Time Of Publish $37.00.

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