10 bestShallow Sump Pumpsof January 2026
112M consumers helped this year.
1
THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG Big Combo Connect Model CITS-50 ½ HP Primary and Battery Backup Sump Pump System with Smart WiFi-Capable and 24-Hour-a-Day Monitoring Controller
THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG
10.0
2
DEKOPRO 1HP Sump Pump, 5400GPH Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump with Integrated Vertical Float Switch
DEKOPRO
10.0
3
DEKOPRO 3/4HP 4600GPH Sump Pump, Submersible Cast Iron and Stainless Steel Sump Pump with Integrated Vertical Float Switch
DEKOPRO
9.9
10% off
4
Glentronics BWD12-120C 2200-Gallons Per Hour Basement Watchdog Big Dog Battery Back-Up Sump Pump System
THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG
9.7
5
Red Lion RL-SC50V 115-Volt, 1/2 HP, 4300 GPH Cast Iron Sump Pump with Vertical Switch, 10-Ft. Cord, Red, 14942747
Red Lion
9.5
OtherUp to 30% off
Zoeller 53-0001 1/3 HP 43 GPM 1-1/2-Inch Discharge M53 Mighty-Mate Automatic All Cast Iron Sump Pump with Vertical Float Switch
Zoeller 98-0001 1/2 HP 72 GPM 1-1/2-Inch Discharge M98 Flow-Mate Cast Iron Automatic Sump Pump with Vertical Float Switch
Liberty Pumps S37 1/3-Horse Power 1-1/2-Inch Discharge S30-Series Builders Series Submersible Sump Pump with Vertical Float
Liberty Pumps 287 1/2-Horse Power 1-1/2-Inch Discharge 280-Series Automatic Submersible Sump Pump with VMF Switch, Gray
6
Little Giant 14940655 CS-SS 115 Volt 3000 GPH Sump Pump
Little Giant
9.3
7
Glentronics BWSP 1730-Gallons Per Hour Basement Watchdog Special Back-Up Sump Pump
THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG
9.0
8
Red Lion RL-SP50V 115-Volt, 1/2 HP, 3600 GPH Aluminum and Thermoplastic Sump Pump with Vertical Switch and 8-Ft. Cord, Red, 14942743
Red Lion
8.8
9
Liberty Pumps 257 1/3-Horse Power 1-1/2-Inch Discharge 250-Series Cast Iron Automatic Submersible Sump/Effluent Pump with VMF Switch, Gray
Liberty Pumps
8.5
10
Glentronics, Inc. BWE 1000-Gallons Per Hour Basement Watchdog Emergency Back-Up Sump Pump
THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG
8.3
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A Guide to Selecting the Best Shallow Sump Pumps
Choosing the right shallow sump pump is important to ensure efficient water removal from basements, crawl spaces, or other areas prone to flooding or water accumulation. The best pump for you will depend on your specific needs, such as the amount of water you need to move, the space available for installation, and how often you expect to use the pump. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls like buying a pump that's too weak or too powerful for your situation.
Pump Capacity (Flow Rate)
Pump capacity, often measured in gallons per hour (GPH) or liters per hour (LPH), tells you how much water the pump can move in a given time. This is important because it determines how quickly the pump can clear water from your sump pit or flooded area. Lower capacity pumps (up to 2,000 GPH) are suitable for small spaces or areas with minor water issues, while medium capacity pumps (2,000–4,000 GPH) are good for average-sized basements or moderate flooding. High capacity pumps (over 4,000 GPH) are best for large spaces or areas with frequent, heavy water accumulation. To pick the right one, consider the size of the area you need to keep dry and how much water typically collects there.
Maximum Head (Lift Height)
Maximum head, or lift height, is the highest vertical distance the pump can move water. This matters because if your pump needs to push water up and out of a basement or crawl space, it must be able to handle the height. Pumps with a lower maximum head (up to 10 feet) are fine for shallow pits or short discharge pipes, while those with a higher maximum head (10–25 feet or more) are needed for deeper pits or longer discharge runs. Measure the vertical distance from your sump pit to where the water will be discharged, and choose a pump that can handle at least that height.
Switch Type
The switch type controls when the pump turns on and off. Common types include float switches, diaphragm switches, and electronic sensors. Float switches are reliable and easy to understand, making them good for most home uses. Diaphragm switches are more compact and less likely to get stuck, which is helpful in tight spaces. Electronic sensors offer precise control and are less prone to mechanical failure, but may be more expensive. Choose a switch type based on the space available in your sump pit and your preference for reliability or simplicity.
Material and Build Quality
The material of the pump affects its durability and resistance to corrosion. Plastic pumps are lightweight and affordable, suitable for occasional use or clean water. Cast iron or stainless steel pumps are more durable and better for frequent use or water with debris, as they resist rust and wear. If you expect to use the pump often or in harsh conditions, opt for a metal-bodied pump. For light, occasional use in clean water, a plastic pump may suffice.
Power Source
Shallow sump pumps are usually powered by electricity, but some models offer battery backup or manual operation. Electric pumps are standard and reliable as long as you have power. Battery backup is important if you need the pump to work during power outages, which often happen during storms. Manual pumps are rare but can be useful in emergencies. Consider how critical it is for your pump to work during a power outage and choose accordingly.
Discharge Size
Discharge size refers to the diameter of the outlet where water exits the pump, usually measured in inches. A larger discharge size allows water to flow out more quickly and reduces the risk of clogging. Common sizes are 1 to 2 inches. If you expect to move a lot of water or deal with debris, a larger discharge size is better. For light, clean water removal, a smaller size is usually sufficient.
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