A Homeowner's Guide to Laundry Pumps: What You Need to Know
Choosing the right laundry pump can transform the efficiency and functionality of your laundry room. Whether you're tackling drainage issues, low water pressure, or planning a full renovation, a well-chosen pump can solve everyday headaches and improve your space.
In this guide, you'll find:
- Types of laundry pumps
- Key features to compare
- Quick installation tips
- Buying advice and comparisons
- Top-rated laundry pump models
How to Choose a Laundry Pump
Selecting the right laundry pump depends on several key factors:
- Size of your laundry setup
- Water flow requirements
- Specific drainage challenges in your home
Here's what you should look for:
Pump Types Explained
There are three main types of laundry pumps:
- Submersible Pumps:
- Installed inside the water
- Quieter and more energy-efficient
- Best for high water levels
- Pedestal Pumps:
- Positioned above the water level with a motor that never gets wet
- Easier to access and maintain
- Utility Pumps:
- Great for small tasks (like draining laundry tubs)
- Offer flexible, portable use in smaller spaces
Choosing the right type depends on your laundry setup and how much maintenance you're willing to do.
Consider Capacity and Power
A pump's performance is determined by:
- Horsepower (HP): More HP means more power.
- Gallons per Minute (GPM): Higher GPM moves more water faster.
Together, these features make a pump with higher HP and GPM ideal for high-demand laundry setups. This is especially useful in busy households, commercial use, and anywhere you need quick, efficient water removal.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for:
- Corrosion-resistant materials (stainless steel, heavy-duty plastic)
- High-quality construction to handle frequent use
Benefits:
- Fewer breakdowns
- Longer lifespan for your system
- Less money spent on repairs
Automatic vs. Manual Operation
- Automatic Pumps:
- Use sensors to activate when water rises
- Great for set-and-forget use
- Cost more and may need extra maintenance
- Manual Pumps:
- User activated (switch or button)
- Require you to monitor water levels
Installation Requirements
Before you buy, consider:
- Do you need a simple, DIY-friendly installation?
- Or will you need a pro for complex setups?
Check for:
- Compatible plumbing connections
- Required tools
- Appropriate electrical outlets
Quick Laundry Pump Installation Guide
Get the best results by following these installation steps:
- Choose the right location:
Place the pump near your washing machine and drainage outlet. - Connect the inlet hose:
Ensure a tight, leak-free attachment. - Set up the discharge pipe:
Direct it straight to your designated drain to avoid messes. - Ensure proper ventilation (if needed):
Avoid pressure buildup and ensure safe operation. - Plug in and test:
Use a grounded outlet, double-check power compatibility, and run a test cycle.
For complex installations, hire a plumber to ensure everything meets code!
Top Laundry Pump Buying Tips
Before you purchase, remember these essentials:
- Confirm compatibility with your washing machine
- Choose energy-efficient models to save on electric bills
- Prefer pumps that include a warranty for peace of mind
- Read customer reviews for real-world insights
- Look for pumps that fit your access and replacement preferences
Top-Rated Laundry Pumps
Shellback 3-12-19-I Auto Pump Laundry
Why choose Shellback?
- Space-saving design:
The compact style fits comfortably into tight laundry rooms, basements, or other small spaces where every inch counts. - Premium price:
Shellback costs more, but you get advanced features and a compact footprint—well worth it for homes low on space. - Automatic activation:
Senses water and runs without manual intervention. - Easy to install:
Quick setup in awkward spots. - Powerful and durable:
Handles heavy laundry loads with long-term reliability.
Shellback at a glance:
- Ideal for: Small or challenging laundry rooms
- Upside: Saves space, low-maintenance, reliable
- Downside: Higher upfront cost
Liberty Pumps 406 Series 1/6 HP Low Profile Compact Drain Pump
Liberty highlights:
- Simple maintenance:
Ease of access means routine checks (or replacement) are fast and cost-effective. - Budget-friendly long-term:
Pump replacements tend to be cheaper than with pricier brands. - Compact size:
Installs beneath sinks, trays, or anywhere with tight quarters. - Automatic operation:
Built-in switch for hands-off use. - Dependable performance:
Up to 17 GPM pumping with a robust 1/6 HP motor.
Liberty at a glance:
- Ideal for: Homeowners who want easy future maintenance
- Upside: Lower replacement cost, user-friendly, versatile
- Downside: Not as "premium" as top luxury options
Little Giant WRSC-6 (506065) Compact Drainosaur Water Removal System
What sets Little Giant apart?
- Accessible and affordable:
Constructed for straightforward service, and should the pump need to be swapped out, it's designed so you can replace the pump at a lower cost. - Self-contained system:
Great for areas without traditional drainage. - Built-in float switch:
Activates automatically as needed. - Handles serious water removal:
Powerful 1/3 HP motor manages up to 46 GPM.
Little Giant at a glance:
- Ideal for: Those wanting simple servicing and cost savings
- Upside: Easy to replace, cost-effective, reliable
- Downside: May not have the same high-end finish as the most premium brands
Little Giant Pumps TE-7-MD-HC series 460 3/4 HP Magnetic Drive Pump - 53 GPM - 587040
- High-capacity performance: With a powerful 3/4 HP motor, this pump moves up to 53 gallons per minute, making it perfect for demanding high-capacity jobs.
- Leak-proof design: The seal-less magnetic drive ensures zero-leak reliability, giving you peace of mind and preventing messy spills.
- Durable and resistant: Its chemical-resistant build allows it to handle harsh liquids and tough environments without breaking down.
- Quiet and efficient: Engineered for quiet, efficient operation, it won't disrupt your home or workspace.
- Simple integration: Designed for fast and simple setup in both home and commercial systems.
Little Giant Pumps TE-7-MD-HC at a glance:
- Ideal for: High-flow applications and handling corrosive chemicals
- Upside: Extremely powerful, leak-proof magnetic drive, durable construction
- Downside: May be overpowered for standard residential laundry needs
Myers MUFKP40 - Emergency Flood Pump Kit
- All-in-one emergency solution: This complete kit is designed to handle everything from everyday drainage to emergency flood situations, providing versatility and reliability when you need it most.
- Automatic operation: The built-in float switch allows for hands-off operation, activating the pump automatically as water levels rise.
- Built to last: A durable, corrosion-resistant construction ensures it can withstand tough conditions and last for years.
- Portable and flexible: Its lightweight design makes it easy to move and set up wherever you need it, offering maximum flexibility.
- Quick setup: Designed for quick and easy installation, so you can get it running in minutes.
Myers MUFKP40 at a glance:
- Ideal for: Homeowners needing a versatile, portable pump for emergencies
- Upside: All-in-one kit, portable, automatic operation
- Downside: Not intended for permanent, heavy-duty industrial use
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right laundry pump keeps your laundry system smooth and hassle-free.
Before you buy, always:
- Consider pump type and power
- Factor in installation and maintenance
- Compare ease of access and future replacement costs
Ready to upgrade?
Use these tips to choose the best laundry pump for your unique needs and make laundry days easier than ever!
