Pedestal vs. Submersible Sump Pumps – What’s the Difference?

If your basement is prone to flooding, a sump pump is a must-have, but which kind is right for your home? There are two main types of sump pumps – pedestal and submersible. While they differ in form, they ultimately serve the same function. In this article, we’ll take a look at both types of sump pumps, considering how they’re constructed, how they work, and which may be the right choice for your home.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a motorized device that sits in a basin or “sump pit” in a basement floor. As water collects in the basin, the sump pump pumps it out from your basement and back into the ground, safely away from your home.

Pedestal Sump Pumps

On pedestal sump pumps, the pump is on the bottom and sits in the sump pit, but the motor is mounted on a stick (the pedestal) that rises up out of the pit. Because of this configuration, pedestal pumps are more visible than submersible pumps and also tend to be a bit louder when running. Typically, pedestal pumps have a longer lifespan and cost less than submersible pumps, but they are usually built to handle only liquids, not solid particles of any kind.

Submersible Sump Pumps

As the name suggests, submersible sump pumps are designed to be entirely submerged in water. They sit within the sump pit and many homeowners prefer this model because it is neatly out of sight. Submersible sump pumps are generally the more expensive option, but they are built to handle solid particles like dirt, sediment, and other debris. Plus, since submersible sump pumps sit within the sump pit, they tend to be a bit quieter when operating.

Partner with the Basement Waterproofing Experts

Since 2007, the team at Engineered Solutions of Georgia has helped countless homeowners waterproof their basements by installing sump pumps and other interior and exterior drainage systems. Whether you’re looking to install a pedestal sump pump or a submersible sump pump, or even if you’re not sure which style would best suit your home, our basement waterproofing experts will be happy to discuss your options with you.

For more information on the different types of basement drainage systems that we install for homeowners throughout Georgia and surrounding states, contact Engineered Solutions of Georgia today.