Would you like a reliable source of power for your sump pump? What you’re looking for is a quality generator. Many generators have voltage protection; when working with powerful equipment such as a sump pump, this is very practical.
You can keep your sump pump running for several hours with a generator. All that you need is some oil, some fuel, and a bit of know-how!
Contents
Quick Look at the 3 We reviewed
Last update on 2024-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sump Pumps Information
Suitable Pumps
Pumps are typically suitable for running with just about any generator… so long as the generator has enough power. Sump pumps are rated by horsepower (HP).
The horsepower you will need is based upon the depth to groundwater, the area and depth of the space, and so on. Your average house should not need more than ⅓ HP. Many opt for a ½ HP sump pump to be on the safe side, however.
Here is an example of wattage and power output runtimes
| Generator Size (kW) | 1/4 Load (GPH) | 1/2 Load (GPH) | 3/4 Load (GPH) | Full Load (GPH) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 400 | 8.9 | 14.9 | 21.4 | 28.6 |
| 500 | 11 | 18.5 | 26.4 | 35.7 |
| 600 | 13.2 | 22 | 31.5 | 42.8 |
| 750 | 16.3 | 27.4 | 39.3 | 53.4 |
| 1000 | 21.6 | 36.4 | 52.1 | 71.1 |
| 1250 | 26.9 | 45.2 | 65 | 88.8 |
| 1500 | 32.2 | 54.2 | 77.8 | 106.5 |
| 1750 | 37.5 | 63.2 | 90.7 | 124.3 |
| 2000 | 42.8 | 72.2 | 103.5 | 142 |
| 3000 | 53.6 | 97.2 | 112.8 | 163.4 |
Fuel
Your typical sump pump can simply be plugged-in. Plugging yours into a generator will provide additional protection and power.
Generators, on the other hand, generally run on fuel. They may run on gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas… or, they may even be dual fuel. Your most affordable options are gasoline or diesel.
These are also the most readily available. Propane and natural gas tend to burn more quietly and smoothly, but they are less efficient and cost a bit more. Whatever fuel you choose, there is a trade-off.
Size & Wattage
How big of a generator do you need to run a sump pump? The size of a generator will depend on the wattage of the generator. Higher wattages make for larger generators, in general.
To power your sump pump, you will want a moderate-to-large-sized generator. Look for one that is 2000-watts minimum. If you have a more powerful sump pump, you may wish for a generator that is 2500-watts or above.
Runtime
Sump pumps can run anywhere from 6-24 hours at a time (higher-quality sump pumps last longer). So, a generator with a nice, long runtime will be ideal.
When it comes to generators for sump pumps, the more power (within reason) and the longer the runtime, the better.
Top 3 Generators For Sump Pumps
3. Champion Power 3500-Watt ( Lowest Price )
- Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob – push-button...
- Trust the reliable 208cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a 3-way ignition...
- At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline...
- 120V 30A locking, 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A outlets and Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents...
- Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Last update on 2024-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, the Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator has just enough power to allow you to enjoy some amenities in your RV. This includes a coffee maker, a popcorn machine, a hairdryer… a much more.
You can also run a very powerful sump pump with this generator and still have energy leftover. The Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator stands out with a wireless remote start that you can keep in your key fob.
Press this from up to 80 feet away, and viola! The 208cc Champion engine will come to life!
Top Features
Handy Intelligauge
The Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator has a convenient digital intelligauge, which will display the volts, runtime, and Hz (frequency). When it comes to the minutiae of your generator’s function, the Intelligauge will help you stay in the know.
Intuitive Control Panel
You can find the Intelligauge on the upper right of the intuitive control panel. Also located on this panel are several outlets to choose from, including two 120 V 20A,
120V 30A locking, and 120V 30A RV -plenty of room to plug in your sump pump, and more.
More Great Features:
- Cold Start Technology. Have you noticed some engines have trouble starting in the wintertime? To address this, the Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator has Cold Start Technology built-in, to make startup quick and simple, even in the coldest weather.
- Volt Guard surge protector. The Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator also has a built-in Volt Guard surge protector. When it comes to using powerful equipment such as a sump pump, this feature can be a real lifesaver!
- Gasoline-powered. Gasoline is super-affordable, and you can find it just about anywhere. This is all-around a very convenient generator fuel.
- Two wheels. For added mobility, there are two wheels on the Champion Power 3500-Watt Generator.
Pros:
- Wheels make it easier to maneuver
- Instructions are included and simple to follow
- Ideal for RV
- Surge protection
- Cold Start Technology
- Remote start
- Intelligauge
Cons:
- Could be quieter (68 dB from 23 feet)
Latest prices on Amazon here ↗️
2. Firman 3000 Watt ( Mid price range )
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At 3300 starting watts and 3000 running watts, the Firman 3000 Watt Generator is quite powerful. For sump pump use, this makes it ideal. Sump pumps may not require crazy amounts of power outright, but they will use a fair bit of energy over time!
To keep up, you will need a sump pump like this one… with plenty of power! You can expect up to a 9-hour runtime from your Firman 3000 Watt Generator.
This generator is nice and quiet, at about 58 dBA, which is not much louder than your average conversation level. This means that, while you get rid of flooding, the Firman 3000 Watt Generator will not disturb the peaceful atmosphere of your home!
Top Features
Multi-Feature Control Panel
The Firman 3000 Watt Generator has a convenient, multi-featured control panel. This includes an overload indicator, a fuel gauge, and a parallel connector. There is also a digital display for the volts, runtime, and Hz.
You can also find the various outlets located here: one 12VDV 8.3A, One 5-20R Duplex 20A-120VAC, one TT-30R 30A-120VAC, and one USB 5VDV. These are protected from dust, dirt, and other debris with a custom-designed outlet cover.
Economy Mode
Economy Mode can actually come in very handy when it comes to sump pump use. Your average sump pump requires little more than 2000-watts; if your generator produces more than that, there’s no need to run it on full. That’s what Economy Mode is for: using only the energy you need, to extend the runtime and/or save fuel.
More Great Features:
- Electric start, remote start, or recoil. There are three starting choices: electric start, with the simple press of a button, recoil (for your preference, or as a backup), or a remote start (from up to 183-feet away).
- Volt Lock. This is one sump pump owners will want to keep an eye out for: an automatic voltage regulator. These are always important to have when running something powerful, like a sump pump or generator (or both!).
- Can connect parallel. There is an outlet on the Firman 3000 Watt Generator that will allow you to connect another, compatible generator parallel (cable not included).
- Spark arrester. The Firman 3000 Watt Generator aims to keep you safe, with a certified USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestor.
Pros:
- The volt regulator is a valuable safety feature
- Easy remote start
- Can connect parallel
- The spark arrestor is another valuable safety feature
- Relatively low dBA
- The wheels and handle make it easier to maneuver
Cons:
- Remote start needs to be recharged frequently
- Some have had trouble starting it in cold weather
Latest prices on Amazon here ↗️
1. Westinghouse WGen7500 ( Editors Choice )
- 7500 Running Watts and 9500 Peak Watts; Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to...
- Features Two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 5-20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle and One L14-30R...
- Plug-and-Play: Comes with a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a...
- Powered by a 420cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve with Automatic...
- All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual...
Last update on 2024-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator is all about raw power. At 7500 running watts and 9500 peak watts, this generator is capable of a whopping 16-hours of runtime in total. This will keep your sump pump going well into the night if needs be. With the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator, you will not have to worry about overload, as you’ll have plenty of energy left over.
To get you started, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator comes with both an oil funnel and oil. You will also receive a tool kit and a helpful user manual. a tool kit, and a user manual. Operating your generator couldn’t be easier. This will also make using your sump pump simpler.
The Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator comes with a remote start key fob and a 12V battery charger, as well.
Top Features
Intuitive Control Panel
Every great generator should have a user-friendly control panel. What use are complex features, if folk can’t figure out how to use them? This is not a worry with the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator.
On this state-of-the-art generator, all of the buttons and gears are in one place: a nice, intuitive control panel. Here, you can find the outlets, which include four 120V.
There are also two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters), as well as a fuel gauge and a digital hour meter.
Superior Runtime and Power
The Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator has a 20cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine with a cast iron sleeve, creating 7500 running watts and 9500 peak watts of pure power. As a result, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator offers up to 16 hours of runtime on a 6.6-gallon tank.
More Great Features:
- Built-in foam grip handle. Move the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator comfortably, with the built-in foam grip handle.
- Never-flat wheels. This generator also has patented has never-flat wheels, making it hassle-free to maneuver.
- Automatic low oil shutdown. Automatic low oil shutdown is a valuable feature for a generator to have. This will effectively help prevent any damage from low oil that could occur.
- Quiet for its size. Now, this generator is not whisper-quiet. It is very quiet for its size, however. Specifically, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator emits 72 dBA, which is just above your average conversation level… while providing 7500 running watts of pure power. Impressive!
Pros:
- Remote start -quick and effective
- User-friendly control panel
- Superior runtime
- Superior power
- Automatic low oil shutdown
- Quiet for its size
Cons:
- The generator is not weather-proof
- You may need to connect the included battery yourself
Latest prices on Amazon here ↗️
What to Consider When Running a Sump Pump With a Generator
Fortunately, running a sump pump with a generator is quite simple -you’d think they were made for each other! There are still some important things you will want to consider. For example:
- Noise level. Do you have a baby that might be asleep/disturbed by your generator? Then you will want an especially quiet one, ideally no more than 60 dBA.
- Power. Your generator must be powerful enough to support your sump pump, without overload risk. Try to exceed your sump pump wattage requirements with your generator. It is easier on the equipment to have some watts leftover.
- Runtime. Power is also what will win you a greater runtime, in general (be sure to double-check). Many sump pumps operate for several hours or more, so usually, the longer the runtime, the better.
Can a 2000 watt generator run a sump pump?
You certainly can! A 2000-watt generator has enough power to run your standard sump pump, with some leftover.
How many watts do I need to run a sump pump?
That depends on the size of your sump pump! If you have a ⅓ HP pump, you will need around 2000-watts in total. If your pump is ½ HP, you will need a minimum of close to 2500-watts in total.
Do I need a backup sump pump?
Whether you need a backup sump pump depends on the severity of the flooding where you live. If it is quite severe, a backup sump pump may be in order. Better safe than sorry, after all.
What are your sump pump backup options?
Really, the best backup for a sump pump is a generator.
Editors Choice
Out of these three extraordinary generators, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator is our winner. This generator is the most user-friendly, setting you up with oil, an oil funnel, a manual, and a user-friendly control panel.
Out of these generators, the Westinghouse WGen7500 Generator is also -by far- the most powerful. At 7500 running watts and 9500 peak watts, this generator will meet your sump pump needs, with energy leftover. When looking for the best sump pump generator, what more can you ask?
Final Thoughts
As you can see, when it comes to reliably run your sump pump, a top-quality generator can be a real lifesaver. In our mind, the Westinghouse listed above is a great generator that will not only power your sump pump but also provides emergency power all around the house right when you need it.
