Marine sump pumps work to keep the balance of water ballast in the boat. Placed in the bilge under the water line it pumps the water out through the bilge valve also below the water line. There are many brands and sizes of bilge pumps but they all work in the same fashion, either by engine power or by manual pumping.

Basement sump pumps work to remove as much water as possible from your home. Based on your basement’s water volume you will want either a stand-type sump pump or a submersible sump pump.

A stand-type sump pump works well for large volumes of water. Typically, they are about two and a half feet tall. A float attached to an arm triggers the on/off switch when the water level is high enough to move it. As the water recedes, the float drops until it triggers the on/off switch again. It has to remain in a standing position to work and it will not work if the water is higher than it is tall.

A submersible pump is smaller, usually between a foot and a foot and a half tall. It does not pump as quickly as a stand-type sump pump. This type of sump pump is good for frequent water in the basement. It will usually pump around thirty gallons of water an hour. Since it has a smaller motor than a stand-type pump, you will need to replace it every couple of years if you get water in your basement frequently.

Regardless of which type of sump pump you decide on you will need two things. The first is a power supply that is above your highest water level. This power supply should be within six feet of the placement of your pump. The second thing you will need is a garden hose. Attach the hose to the pump and make sure it has a clear path to the outside. A crimped hose will stop either pump from working.

Ideally, you will probably want one of each. The tall stand-type will draw the water out more quickly, especially nice during heavy rainfall. Once your basement is clear, the smaller pump will keep the water down without needing a high volume of water to draw on.