Submerged Vs. Pedestal Sump Pumps

A sump pump removes water from around a home's foundation to protect the home from water damage. The two styles of sump pumps, submerged and pedestal, each have advantages and disadvantages for a home owner to consider.

Submerged Pump Advantages

The primary advantage of submerged sump pumps is that they are quieter than pedestal sump pumps as they sit below the floor. With the submerged pump under the floor, they are safer for children and pets to be around than an exposed pedestal pump. Submerged sump pumps also do not take up room in the living area of a basement.

Pedestal Pump Advantages

Pedestal sump pumps are less expensive than submerged pumps, which is an advantage to the budget-minded. As the pedestal sump pumps sits above the basement floor, the pump is easier to maintain and repair. Pedestal pumps are exposed to more stable conditions which can make them last longer than submerged pumps.

Other Considerations

When replacing a sump pump that has failed, it is often easier to replace the pump with one of the same style as the surrounding mounting hardware. This avoids reconfiguring the hookup of the pump and surrounding hardware does not have to be changed. Pumps with a cast iron body tend to last longer as the cast iron helps to dissipate heat away from the pump's motor.

References

• HomeTips: Home Improvement, Basement, Attic and Loft, Sump Pumps and Moisture
• Ask The Builder: Sump Pumps - Basement Guardians
• BobVila.com: How To Library, Basement, Foundation and Crawlspace, Basement, Selecting the Right Sump Pump