Rather-Be-Boating
New Member
Chicago metro area - SW burbs, typical "former farmland" subdivision. Primary pump does not activate often - just heavy rains, snow melt, etc. Everyone in the Chicago area knows what we just experienced in the past several days. Power failures are minimal, but do happen.
I have a simple Sears primary unit in there for now, so I do not need to rush a decision (but I would like to solve this in the next several days).
I do not have an unlimited budget, but will pay a premium for quality.... just not "rolls royce" quality.
Basement is finished - entire vertical run (9 feet or so) of 1-1/2" discharge is concealed behind drywall (prior owner). Sump pit is enclosed in a 12" tall box with a hinged top.... visualize "piano bench". Pretty cool in a way since this "box" makes a nice end table for the adjacent couch, but pedestal pumps are NOT an option. Pit is 16" dia. x 24" deep.
Primary:
What size pump? I realize gph is more important than hp. Big box stores seem to push the 1/2 hp models. Single cord switch & pump? Separate switch? I have a buddy willing to give me a Zoeller M-53, which I think is a single cord... should I avoid this because the switch and pump are combined? If I took a pass on the freebie, what would be a good choice on pump & switch for maximum reliability & lifespan?
Backup: Again, pedestal pumps are out of the question. As a boater, I like the idea of possibly using AGM unless there is a compelling reason not to use them. 16" dia pit is still quite constrained, so I'm not sure side-by-side is going to work. Plus, I am limited to a single discharge because it is already buried in the wall.
Any input sincerely appreciated.
I have a simple Sears primary unit in there for now, so I do not need to rush a decision (but I would like to solve this in the next several days).
I do not have an unlimited budget, but will pay a premium for quality.... just not "rolls royce" quality.
Basement is finished - entire vertical run (9 feet or so) of 1-1/2" discharge is concealed behind drywall (prior owner). Sump pit is enclosed in a 12" tall box with a hinged top.... visualize "piano bench". Pretty cool in a way since this "box" makes a nice end table for the adjacent couch, but pedestal pumps are NOT an option. Pit is 16" dia. x 24" deep.
Primary:
What size pump? I realize gph is more important than hp. Big box stores seem to push the 1/2 hp models. Single cord switch & pump? Separate switch? I have a buddy willing to give me a Zoeller M-53, which I think is a single cord... should I avoid this because the switch and pump are combined? If I took a pass on the freebie, what would be a good choice on pump & switch for maximum reliability & lifespan?
Backup: Again, pedestal pumps are out of the question. As a boater, I like the idea of possibly using AGM unless there is a compelling reason not to use them. 16" dia pit is still quite constrained, so I'm not sure side-by-side is going to work. Plus, I am limited to a single discharge because it is already buried in the wall.
Any input sincerely appreciated.