Last Updated on July 2, 2023 by admin

Homes that don’t fall under the central sewage systems mainly depend on septic tanks for waste management. At some point, your septic tank will fill up with waste, and to move that wastewater out, a sump pump can come in handy. Discover the best sump pump for septic tanks in the following review.

 

With different options available in the market, choosing what will be right for your waste management system can get challenging. To help you out, we have compiled a list of 5 of the best sump pump for a septic tank with their detailed review. Additionally, the buying guide will give you an idea about the features you should look for in a good sump pump.

 

A quick summary of our top picks

 

Before getting into the in-depth review, let’s have a quick look at the products with their key characteristics.

 

Schaefer E-Series Effluent Septic Pump – Best Sump Pump Overall

 

With all the right qualities packed in one package, this is the best sump pump option overall, from build quality to performance.

 

Franklin Electric Effluent Septic Pump – Best Sump Pump for Non-Residential Use

 

If you have a bigger-than-usual septic tank or need a sump pump for your non-residential septic system, this sump pump can be an ideal choice for you.

 

HIBLOW HP-80 Septic Linear Air Pump – Most Durable Sump Pump

 

The build quality is the highlight of this product. If you want a septic tank pump that will last the longest, this air pump is your safest bet.

 

Blue Diamond ET 80 Septic Air Pump – Most Energy-Efficient Sump Pump

 

You can go for this air pump if energy efficiency is your key focus. This pump runs on a considerably low amount of power, yet it can easily handle up to 500 gallon’s septic tank.

 

Hallmark Industries MA0343X-4 Submersible Pump – Best Value for Money Sump Pump

 

Despite being the cheapest option on our list, this pump features a full stainless steel build, a flow rate of 25 GPM, and a built-in control box. What more could you ask for with a low price tag like this?

 

Comparison Table- Top 5 Sump Pumps for Septic Tanks Available in the Market

 

 

Schaefer E-Series Effluent Septic Pump – Best Sump Pump Overall

 

The first product on our list is from Schaefer. The brand’s name might sound unfamiliar to many, but this submersible pm has earned its rightful place on the list with some excellent features.

 

Manufactured by Franklin electric, this versatile submersible tank can be used for anything from septic tanks to wells. The brand name may sound familiar, but the manufacturer, Franklin electric, is famous for supplying the motors for different brands’ submersible pumps.

 

The body of this submersible pump is pretty well built, with steel and plastic on top. Like most submersible pumps, this one also has a stainless steel body structure and a thermoplastic discharge. Thanks to the corrosion resistance, you can keep this submersible pump underwater for a long time. So, in terms of longevity, the construction has got your back.

 

As we mentioned before, this one features a Franklin motor so the performance will be top-notch. The ½ hp motor has a flow rate of 20 GPM, which is quite impressive considering the price point. In addition, there is an upthrust washer made from carbon phenolic, which prevents excessive wear from severe applications.

 

The wire that comes with the motor has a stripped lead at one end. So, the installation can be a bit complicated. Apart from the installation, the performance is pretty much what you should expect from a good submersible pump.

 

Overall, this submersible pump is a balanced package for the price. Nothing too premium, but it’ll do the job it’s supposed to and serve you for a long time.

 

Pros

• Versatile use
• Carbon phenolic upthrust washer
• Removable built-in check valve
• Excellent corrosion-resistant build

Cons

• It might need expert wiring

 

Franklin Electric Effluent Septic Pump – Best Sump Pump for Non-Residential Use

 

Another similar product to the previous one. But this time, not only the motor but the whole submersible pump is from Franklin electric. Both feature and look-wise, this is one of the best submersible pumps for septic tanks.

 

First of all, this effluent submersible pump is highly versatile, thanks to its compatibility with lots of different applications. Then, the build quality is superb due to its stainless steel and plastic body. Moreover, the steel is corrosion-resistant, which means this submersible pump can withstand a long period of submersion without any water damage.

 

The pump features a heavy-duty 115V motor. Despite having only a ½ hp engine, this submersible pump has an impressive flow rate of 20 GPM. With this pump installed in your septic tank, you won’t have to worry about clogging or water backups anymore.

 

To prevent any water back-flow, there is a removable check valve equipped with the pump itself. In addition to all these great features, this submersible pump also comes with a thermoplastic discharge and motor brackets.

 

The wiring is included in the package, and it’s pretty easy to install without any particular expertise. However, if you want to use it as a septic effluent pump, you need to add an external float switch to turn the pump on and off.

 

The wire can get corroded over time, which can be a minor drawback for some. But you can easily replace that with a high-quality wire later.

 

Pros

• Long lifespan
• Corrosion-resistant build for submerged use
• Good value for money
• Good flowrate for the power

Cons

• The wire can get corroded

 

HIBLOW HP-80 Septic Linear Air Pump – Most Durable Sump Pump

 

Unlike the first two options on our list, this one is a little different. Originally manufactured an s a pond aerator, this pump can be an excellent choice for your septic tank too. You’ll get a fantastic set of features with this air pump for the price you are paying.

 

Let’s talk about the build quality first. The outer casing of this air pump is made of high-quality aluminum. Because of that, this air pump from HIBLOW is primarily known for its long lifespan. With hundreds of positive ratings to back up its durability, you won’t have a chance to complain about the build of this air pump.

 

Up next, the performance of this air pump is equally good as the build quality. Apart from the reliability that HIBLOW provides, the numbers alone are enough to impress you. The pump can create a pressure of 3.6 psi resulting in an airflow of 4.2 cfm.

 

With a 71 watts engine, this machine can deliver a flow rate of 21 GPM. In addition, there is a rubber gasket with the motor, which will tone down the vibration. 

 

Another thing that we like about this air pump is its reparability. With fewer moving parts, this air pump is pretty much easier to open up and repair than a submersible pump.

 

All in all, this air pump can be a great addition to your sewage system with a considerable amount of power. If you want something well-known for its long lifespan, this HIBLOW air pump is the option you should go for. 

 

Pros

• Hassle-free plug-in power input
• One-year warranty
• Convenient repairability
• Corrosion-proof aluminum build

Cons

• Pretty loud operation

 

Blue Diamond ET 80 Septic Air Pump – Most Energy-Efficient Sump Pump

 

Another pond aerator can perform very well as a septic tank pump alternative. This air pump is full of good features that make this air pump a decent choice for your septic tank. Build and performance-wise, this air pump is pretty similar to the HIBLOW one we discussed earlier.

 

After you get your hands on this pump, the very first thing you’ll notice is its durability. Like most other air pumps, it’s made of aluminum, so Blue Diamond made no compromise in the construction segment.

 

Additionally, the weatherproof casing will ensure that the water from the septic tank stays off the motor. Spare parts are also available with easy-to-use rebuild kits if you decide to rebuild any part of this air pump.

 

Generally, air pump flow rates are measured in the amount of air, and this pump has an airflow rate of 20 gallons per minute. As long as your septic tank is below 500 gallons, this pump can easily handle the workload. This is one of the most popular septic tank pump alternatives and the number one choice for NSF-certified sewage system manufacturers.

 

The motor has a power consumption of 75 watts, making it one of the most energy-efficient air ump in the market. You’ll also get one year of the manufacturer’s warranty with this pump. So that’s another indicator of good quality.

 

If you are looking for an alternative to submersible pumps for your septic tank, this air pump should be an ideal choice for you. The price won’t break the bank either.

 

Pros

• Weatherproof casing
• Rebuild its available
• Energy efficient
• One-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

• The standard plug can be an issue for hardwiring users

 

Hallmark Industries MA0343X-4 Submersible Pump – Best Value for Money Sump Pump

 

If you are looking for the absolute best submersible pump brand on the market, then Hallmark can be a good choice for you. Hallmark is famous for offering good-quality submersible pumps at different prices. At the end of our list, we bring you Hallmark’s MA0343X-4 model.

 

First off, the build quality of this submersible pump is mind-blowing, just what you should expect from a brand like Hallmark. Unlike the first two entries on our list, this pump’s construction is made of stainless steel only. The exclusion of visible plastic from the construction makes this build more solid. Additionally, the pump is corrosion resistant too.

 

With a 150 feet max head, this pump would work great to pump into your deep septic tank. This particular model is compatible with a 100V to 130V power connection, but it’s recommended that you use a 110V output for optimal performance.

 

At first, only a half horsepower of the motor might fool you about the capabilities. However, it delivers a flow rate of 25 GPM with that power, making it a perfect choice for septic tank use. In addition, the motor inside the pump has a hermetic seal that prevents water, dirt, or any other debris from getting inside.

 

The installation is pretty straightforward. Still, the pump comes with a user manual and tape kit to make the process more convenient. The pump is also equipped with an inbuilt control box and ten feet of wiring. So you won’t have to spend extra money to buy these externally.

 

In short, you’ll be getting the same power as the previous two submersible pumps at almost half the price here. So if you are looking for the best value for your money, recommending this submersible pump is an easy call.

 

Pros

• It comes with an in-built control box and wiring
• Solid stainless steel corrosion-resistant build
• Features in-built thermal protection
• Good bang for the buck

Cons

• Requires additional check valve

 

Buying Guide

As we mentioned before, the market is filled with different types of sump pumps at different prices. Furthermore, the criteria become different when looking for a sump pump specifically to use in the septic tank.

 

Choosing a sump pump for a septic tank can get tricky without knowing what features you should look for. So, in this buying guide, we broke down the same criteria we used to compile this list for you.

 

If you decide to look for more options even out of our list, this buying guide will come in handy. Let’s have a quick look at things you should consider before buying a sump pump for a septic tank.

 

Motor Power

 

Motor power should be on top of your priority list as it’s used as a general indicator of the pump’s capability. Usually, the power is measured in horsepower or HP. Most of the sump pumps in the market have a half-hp motor.

 

If you are using it for a septic tank, this amount of power should generate enough flow rate to get the job done easily. Sump pumps are usually considered power-efficient options, so there is no need to worry too much about horsepower. If you think the flow rate is good enough at a certain height, that pump is probably good enough in terms of motor power.

 

Voltage Compatibility

 

Voltage is another crucial thing you should check out. Mostly, this information can be found in the product manual or description. To run a certain sump pump, you need to have a power line that matches the pump’s voltage. Depending on the motor power I mentioned above, a pump might need different volts to run correctly.

 

Typically, the half-horsepower submersible and air pumps can run on 110 to 120 volts delivering optimal performance. If you opt for a sump pump with a high-power motor, make sure your household connection can back that up.

 

Build Quality

 

As the sump pump for the septic tank will be submerged in water, you should choose one with the solid build quality. Usually, these sump pumps depending on the type, plastic is used for certain parts while the main body is made of aluminum and stainless steel.

 

As the sump pump is a long-term investment, you need to be cautious about the build quality so that it can serve you for years. Additionally, the sump pump you are purchasing must have corrosion resistance; otherwise, it won’t last a year.

 

Instead of depending on the specifications, you can check out user feedback for more accurate info about the material quality.

 

Installation

 

If you are someone with no expertise in pump installation and wiring, this feature is essential. Generally, wiring a sump pump is relatively easy with essential knowledge and the help of the manual. But sometimes, the wire that comes with the pump has a stripped lead, which might take a little more expertise than usual.

 

Also, most of the sump pump has cables included in the package, make sure your unit has that. Additionally, some submersible types come with inbuilt control boxes like the Hallmark pump we discussed. That can be a great addition to any submersible pump. So be sure to check that out too.

 

Affordability

 

After you have made up your mind about every feature, the purchasing decision comes down to the price of the articular sump pump. The price depends on the power and flow rate of the sump pump for the most part. Unusually, sending a couple of dollars should give you a decent sump pump for a septic tank.

 

If you are on a tighter budget, again, there is nothing to worry about. Quite a few good quality sump pump comes in that price point that has decent performance. Just keep your expectation real, and you’ll be satisfied with the budget-oriented sump pump options too.

 

However, we would advise you not to cheap out as a sump pump for a septic tank is a long-term investment, and you expect it to last for years to come. 

 

Flow Rate

 

Flow rate carries more significance than any other feature, whether it’s a sewage pump, sump pump, or any other pump. Flow rate indicates the amount of water going through the pump in a certain amount of time.

 

Usually, for sump pumps, it’s better to go for a model with a high flow rate, But that also takes a toll on the pump’s energy efficiency. However, as we are talking about sump pumps for septic tanks, a flow rate of 20-25 GPM (Gallons per Minute) should suffice.

 

In the end, the flow rate comes down to personal preference and how fast you want to pump the water. You should choose a sump pump with a higher flow rate if you want faster pumping for our septic tank. Depending on the waste load, generally, bigger constructions need higher flow rate pumps.

 

Best Sump Pump for Septic Tank 

 

Sump pumps are recommended for most septic tanks, even if they don’t technically require one. 

 

A well-maintained and appropriately-sized septic tank can handle all the sewage that enters it, but an overflowing septic tank is the main concern for most owners.

 

A good sump pump will save you from hassle, headaches, and foundational damage from sewage. The right pump must be able to handle the size of the tank and not become clogged by the solids that collect at the bottom.

 

This article contains everything you need to know to choose the right sump pump for your septic tank. 

 

What Type of Pump is Best for Raw Sewage?

 

You should be using a sewage ejector pump with a grinder for a septic tank. Sewage pumps are designed specifically to handle the kind of waste found in sewage lines and septic tanks. 

 

A lot of different materials are present in a septic tank and remain there for long periods—it’s not that easy to pump all this material out. 

 

Sewage pumps generally have bigger pump bodies, larger outlet holes, and a more powerful motor to help move the water and solids. 

 

Sewage pumps with a grinder go a step further and add a single or double set of blades at the inlet point, which pulverizes any solid or semi-solid material entering the pump. 

 

Things like tissue paper, hair, and any debris that have found their way into the septic tank are broken down into tiny pieces and then easily pumped out of the tank. 

 

This improves the durability and reliability of the pump and means that you won’t be running into any backflow problems in your home. 

 

What is the Difference Between A Sump Pump and A Sewage Pump?

 

The main difference lies in the design of the pump and the power of the motor. 

 

Nearly all sewage pumps need electricity to function. This can either be from a power socket, a generator, or any other source of power.

 

Sump pumps can be run on batteries within the pump, and some can even be powered by water movement. 

 

A sump pump can pump clean water or slightly dirty water, while sewage pumps are primarily designed to handle gray water and water that contains solids and semi-solid materials. Sewage pumps usually need more power than sump pumps. 

 

Sump pump motors start around 0.5 HP, and sewage pump motors usually start at 1HP. 

 

Sump pumps are installed in an underground reservoir in the basement or away from home, where all the water from the walls or the surrounding area will collect. Sewage pumps can be installed anywhere in the house and even in the septic tanks. 

 

In many domestic applications, sewage pumps are used to move wastewater from the bathroom to the septic tank, where it can be processed further and then finally removed using either a regular sewage pump, an effluent pump, or a sewage ejector pump. 

 

 

What is the Difference Between A Sewage Pump and A Grinder Pump?

 

A sewage pump with a grinder is known as a grinder pump.

 

Other than the grinder, the design and operation of both sewage and grinder pumps are nearly identical. 

 

Grinder pumps come with a single or double grinder. A double grinder is helpful in commercial applications or in situations where there is a chance of there being large, solid materials in the water. 

 

Sewage pumps without a grinder can be used to pump gray water that doesn’t contain solid or semi-solid material. For instance, if you have a laundry room in an area of the home far from the main sewage line, you can use a sewage pump to move the wastewater to the sewage system. 

 

If you have a bathroom that is also forwarding human waste and other pieces of solid waste, getting a grinder pump is the best option. 

 

Can I Use An Effluent Pump Instead of A Sump Pump?

 

Yes, you can as long as the sump pump is being used for clean or close-to-clean water. 

 

Effluent pumps are considered light-duty sewage pumps. They are commonly used for kitchen sinks, washbasins, or in a laundry room that is far from the main sewage line, where you need a pump to push the waste into the main sewage line. 

 

They are also used to move gray water from a septic tank that has already been treated and remove the large bits of debris and solid or semi-solid material. 

 

Sump pumps are also used to move the water that collects in the reservoir in a basement. If you need to move this water a few feet overhead into the main sewage line, an effluent pump will also do the job. 

 

If you need a battery-powered unit or a water-powered unit, get a regular sump pump because effluent pumps need electricity, much like a regular sewage pump. 

 

Final Thoughts

 

The debate between effluent, sewage, grinder, and sump pumps can get confusing with all the information out there. 

 

While all these pumps are designed for specific purposes, they can, to some extent, be used interchangeably when you have a small to a medium septic tank that does not have a lot of solid waste.

 

The main differentiating factor is the kind of material that the pump is moving, where it is moving, and where it is moving from. 

 

The most important thing when buying a new pump is to know what size motor you need, how big the inlet and outlet are, and what kind of material the pump body is made from. 

 

For gray water applications, the most reliable material is cast iron. For clean water applications, such as a sump pump, aluminum or even plastic will do. 

 

Here we are at the end of the review. Long story short, you can keep your septic tank from filling up over time by installing these pumps. All the products we reviewed here are good options with positive feedback from the users.

 

All you have to do is fix your budget and pick the best one according to your septic tank system. Now that we pointed out how to identify a good sump pump, the decision should be pretty easy for you. In the end, we hope our review and buying guide has been helpful to you to make an informed decision about the best sump pump for a septic tank.