Last Updated on July 16, 2023
Are you up against a basement or crawl space that regularly floods? Are you looking for a good bilge pump to dry your space? Well, you might be concerned about whether it is entirely submersible or not.
There are two types of bilge pumps to consider: Horizontal and Submersible. But regarding safety and durability, submersible bilge pumps win the game. They can operate even when fully submerged and are an excellent choice for various home applications.
Nevertheless, you must make sure your bilge pump can withstand the conditions where you’ll be using it. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of submersible bilge pumps, if they can be entirely submerged, or if there are any restrictions.
How Can a Bilge Pump be Completely Submerged: In a Home Basement
The submersible automatic bilge pump pumps water out by submerging it in water using electricity. This submersible pump can either be manually turned on or equipped with a float switch, which allows it to operate automatically as the water level rises and falls.
The bilge pump essentially consists of three main parts: a motor, an impeller, and a volute. The motor drives the impeller, which pumps the water out of the basement.
It achieves this by spinning the impeller, which draws water in through its center and pushes it out to the sides. Conversely, the volute directs the water flow from the impeller to the outflow pipe.
In operation, the submersible bilge pump converts electrical energy into kinetic energy through the motor. The impeller then uses this kinetic energy to create a suction force, which draws water and pushes it outwards through the volute.
The pump then transports this water from its location in the basement to a different area through the outflow pipe.
Advantages of a Fully Submersible Bilge Water Pump for Residential Applications
Submersible bilge pumps are a budget-friendly and versatile solution for many residential tasks, from cleaning to removing excess water. Here are some benefits of a submersible bilge pump for residential tasks:
Cost-Effective Option
Investing in a fully submersible bilge water pump can be a cost-effective option for any cleaning purpose, indoor plumbing, or basement water out. This pump is designed to remove water from any space quickly and efficiently, regardless of location.
Its submersible design is ideal for tight spaces, such as basements or crawl spaces, making it a valuable addition to any homeowner’s toolkit. The compact pump makes it easy to move around and store, ensuring it will only take up a little space in your storage room.
Easy to Install
One of the primary advantages of a submersible bilge pump is its easy installation process. Unlike other pumps that require extensive plumbing knowledge or professional installation, this pump can be installed by just about anyone with basic plumbing skills.
The submersible design makes it easy to position in any space. It also allows you to pump out even the last bit of water in the space. This ensures that your area stays dry and healthy without water clogging.
Compact Size
Another advantage of a fully submersible bilge water pump is its compact size. This attribute can provide significant benefits, especially when working in tight spaces.
The compact size allows easy maneuverability and placement in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring every water remains addressed. Also, the compact size makes storage easy and saves space on your storage shelves.
Energy Efficient
Fully submersible bilge water pumps are known for their energy efficiency, with some models specifically designed to use less energy, which translates to cost savings on your electricity bills.
Generally, submersible pumps are known for producing more power than their non-submersible counterparts while consuming less energy. This efficiency makes them a cost-effective solution for homeowners who want an eco-friendly, energy-efficient, yet effective pump for their homes.
Can be Use Hard to Reach Areas
Finally, the fully submersible bilge water pump’s design allows it to reach hard-to-reach areas in your home. This is particularly useful when you pump water from a space like a sump pit or a drainage ditch.
With its submersible design, this pump can effectively pump water from any location regardless of the area’s water level.
Are There Any Disadvantages of a Submersible Bilge Water Pump?
Submersible bilge water pumps are durable and reliable, making them ideal for the marine industry. However, while they have advantages, they are not without disadvantages.
Here are some disadvantages of using a submersible bilge water pump:
Their Using Purpose
Submersible bilge pumps are typically designed and optimized for marine environments and may not be suitable for continuous use in residential settings. While they can efficiently operate in a boat’s bilge, they may need more capacity or features to handle the demands of a residential wastewater system.
Attempting to use a bilge pump for a purpose it wasn’t intended for can lead to premature failure and the need for costly replacements.
May Not be Able to Handle Solids or Debris
Submersible bilge pumps may not be designed to handle the solids or debris that can be present in a residential wastewater system. The pump intake may become clogged, increasing the operating costs and potentially damaging the pump.
Using a bilge pump for this purpose may not be practical or efficient, and choosing a pump specifically designed for residential wastewater and its unique demands is better.
Pump Seals Can Become Corroded
Over time, the seals of a submersible bilge pump can become corroded. This corrosion can occur because ground soil contamination increases exposure to salt water, oil, and other marine debris.
Corrosion can lead to leakage, decreased efficiency, and eventual pump failure. Performing routine maintenance and inspection is essential to prevent corrosion and prolong the pump’s life.
May Not be the Most Efficient Choice
Submersible bilge pumps are designed for high-volume, low-pressure applications, meaning they may only sometimes be the most efficient choice for home plumbing purposes. They are typically used in boats to remove large quantities of water from the bilge quickly, and their design reflects this use.
Submersible bilge pumps may be less energy-efficient and have a shorter lifespan than other pump types. A centrifugal pump may be better if you seek a more efficient option for your home plumbing system.
May Get Rusted Over Time
While submersible bilge pumps are hermetically sealed to prevent water from seeping in, they can still become rusted over time. The pump’s impeller can collect debris and sediment, leading to corrosion and rust on the pump’s internal parts.
Not One-Size-Fits-All
It’s important to note that submersible bilge pumps are not a one-size-fits-all solution for every plumbing application. Different pumps have different capabilities and are suited for different tasks.
When choosing a pump for your plumbing system, it’s essential to factor in variables such as flow rate, pressure requirements, and the type of liquid being transferred. A professional plumbing expert can help you choose the right pump.
Can I leave a submersible pump underwater in my basement?
Whether or not you can submerge a submersible pump in your basement depends on the specific type of pump and the pump float switch it uses. Some submersible pumps are designed to work when fully submerged, while others can continue working even when placed on a dry surface.
However, in most cases, ensuring that your submersible pump is permanently submerged in water is advisable. Regarding the pump float switch, you must consider the switch your pump uses.
A pump with a tethered float switch may not work correctly if submerged in the water, as the float may become stuck to the side, causing the pump to fail. Meanwhile, a pump with a vertical float switch is designed to operate even at high water levels without experiencing any issues.
How deep can I put a submersible bilge pump underwater?
A submersible bilge pump can be installed to a depth of 18 feet in a basement. Choosing a pump with a 300 to 500 gallons per hour (GPH) rating is usually sufficient for this depth.
However, it is essential to note that the depth limit can vary depending on the specific make and model of the bilge pump. It is recommended to always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before installing your submersible bilge pump.
Also, when selecting a bilge pump, you must consider the size of the area that needs to be pumped, the volume of water that needs to be moved, and the duration for which the pump needs to run.
A higher GPH rating typically means the pump can handle a larger volume of water and run more efficiently. Also, select a pump with a sufficiently long power cord to reach the nearest power outlet and ensure the power source can safely handle the pump’s power requirements.
Can I leave a submersible bilge pump underwater in winter?
Submersible bilge pumps can safely remain submerged throughout the winter months in your basement. These pumps are designed to be fully submersible and can continue to function in cold temperatures without issue.
But ensure the pump is installed correctly and maintained regularly to prevent damage and prolong its lifespan. Keeping your basement well-insulated and heated during the winter is essential to prevent pipes from freezing and causing water damage.
Also, regularly check and maintain your submersible bilge pump to ensure it functions properly. This includes checking the power source and cord, changing the pump’s oil, and cleaning the impeller to remove debris or buildup.
Peace of Mind from Water Damage: Submersible Bilge Pumps to the Rescue
Submersible bilge pumps can be completely submerged because they are designed to withstand water exposure and continue functioning normally. However, remember that some submersible pumps have depth limitations that vary depending on the model.
Therefore, it is always recommended to read the instructions carefully before installation. Ultimately, a submersible bilge pump can be an excellent choice for any environment where water accumulation is a potential problem.
Consider choosing one for your home basement or crawl space, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you are protected against water damage.
