Zoeller Co Sump Pump | SumpPumps.PumpsSelection

Zoeller Co Sump Pump Is Highly Recommended. Understand Its Six Quality Specifications, Its Three Pump Types, How They Work, How To Install And How To Choose The Best Pump For Your Water Pumping Needs

Zoeller Co Sump Pump, A Home And Plumbers Brand Over 80+ Years Old, Gets Highly Recommended For Its Six Quality Features Found In Its 3 Product Types. Get An Explanation Below. See The Built In Quality.

Zoeller Pump Company sump pumps battery backup water powered sewage pumps pictured Zoeller Company focuses on quality, using materials that are durable and implements the features that make a difference. Their primary sump pumps are made in Louisville, Kentucky USA and are tested before leaving the factory to ensure working condition when installed. Their battery backup and water powered sump pumps are made and tested in Zoeller’s Indiana USA plant. Zoeller truly believes if they manufacture their own parts and build their pumps they can control their destiny.

As a home owner you probably know of Zoeller’s quality and the Mighty Mate M53 through communication with your plumber; however, you may not be aware that each of Zoeller’s three Sump Pump types: the Primary Submersible and Non Submersible Pedestal, the Battery Backup and the Water Powered Backup sump pump, have their own own three product lines: the Basic, the Professional and the Premium product lines, each with varying degrees of quality features.

To provide clarity, we will explain the basic quality specifications of Zoeller sump pumps. Then we will present the three product lines for each pump type, their quality differences, how each pump type works, how to install it, and suggest how to choose the best pump. Once the best sump pump is chosen for your water pumping needs, we provide an opportunity to shop your favorite Zoeller Sump Pump.

The Zoeller Sump Pump Quality Features

Zoller pumps are known for their quality and built-in features. Quality and Features make a difference.

Six Quality Features

Sump pumps have many parts, but the main parts are the motor and its housing and horse power or pumping performance, the volute and how it handles solids, and the float and switch. Each pump manufacturer chooses to handle these parts differently. We believe Zoeller designs these parts in a great way with quality. Their quality is also demonstrated with their warranty and made in the USA manufacturing and testing.

1) Cast Iron Housing Heat Dissipation

Inside The Zoeller Sump Pump pictured Primary pumps are known as the work horse pump. That’s why they have more cast iron than the other pump types. During heavy continuous pumping, the motor gets hot. To prevent it from overheating, several measures are implemented. Rather than rely on third party canned aluminum housed motors, Zoeller manufactures their own using a cast iron motor housing as an extra layer of heat dissipating material and presses their motors into the pump housing eliminating air pockets for even greater heat dissipation.

To further dissipate heat during heavy continuous pumping, the head cap which houses the switch is also cast iron. Since the motor heat rises, over time and with continuous pumping, the switch can be affected. To remedy this, the Premium series of pumps, the M63 and M95, have an additional viton switch boot shield which not only protects against heat but against moisture.

Outer pump housing made of cast iron provides great heat dissipation, won’t crack, warp or break and adds weight to the pump so it will not move in the basin during heavy continuous pumping. Corrosion resistance is provided by coating the outer housing surface with a corrosion resistant epoxy finish. Cast iron is stronger than stainless steel, aluminum, zinc and for sure thermoplastic.

Cast iron also adds weight to the pump which keeps it from moving in the basin during heavy pumping. When comparing Zoeller Sump Pumps to other brands, Zoeller’s pumps are heavier. The Professional Product Line Mighty-Mate M53 weighs 21 pounds; and Flow-Mate M98 weighs 25 pounds; M57 weigh 27 pounds and the Premium Product Line M63 weighs 27 pounds and M95 weighs 38 pounds.

Zoeller uses varying degrees of cast iron in their primary sump pumps.

✓ Models M57, M63 and M95 are made completely from cast iron. The parts where used includes the motor and pump housing, the switch cap, the volute (base) and the impeller.

✓ Models M53 and M98 have cast iron motor and pump housing, switch cap, and the volute’s (base) upper part. The volute’s bottom part and the impeller are engineered thermoplastic.

✓ Models M49,M73, and M75 have a cast iron motor housing and the pump’ outer housing, switch box, volute (base), and impeller are made of engineered thermoplastic.

✓ Pedestal pump models M82 and M84 have a cast iron motor housing and pump outer housing,

✓ Models M72 and M76 and pedestal pump M81 are made from thermoplastic. Thermoplastic can warp, crack and break; therefore these models are for those home owners on a tight budget and have very little water to be pumped during heavy rain storms. When a volute is all plastic it is very important to remember to apply less pressure on the pump volute’s port when screwing in the discharge piping.

2) Motor Power Reserve

Zoeller designs its motors with 10% reserve energy for usage when heavy continuous pumping is required. This means the motor has additional stored energy to meet the demand.

The pumping performance of Zoeller’s Primary Sump Pump Professional and Premium Product Line is as follows.

✓ The primary one-third horse power pumps (M53, M57, M63) pumping performance is 43 GPM or 2,580 GPH at a 5 foot height.

✓ The one-half horse power pumps (M95 and M98 pumping performance is 72 GPM or 4,320 GPH at a 5 foot height.

The battery backup pumps pumping performance is as follows.

✓ The battery backup pumps AquaNot Key 507 pumping performance is 15 GPM or 900 GPH at a 10 foot vertical height

✓ The battery backup pumps AquaNot Spin and Fit 508 and AquaNot II 585 pumping performance is 35 GPM or 2,100 GPH at a 10 foot vertical height

The water powered backup pumps pumping performance is as follows.

✓ The 540 Flex pumping performance is 15 GPM or 900 GPH minimum at 40 psi for city water pressure.

3) No Bottom Screen

The Zoeller Sump Pump M53 impeller pictured The Vortex Impeller is Zoeller’s way of removing pea gravel and small basin debris. Some brands choose to use a bottom screen that requires manual cleaning. Other brands use top suction avoiding debris in the basin until it is manually removed. Zoeller’s way is less demanding for the busy home owner.

4) Switch Tested For Over One Million Cycles

One thing all sump pumps eventually experience regardless of brand is switch failure unless an electronic switch is installed and even some of those are not reliable because of the water level notification type used. Even though the switch will fail sometime, Zoeller’s float for the Professional and Premium line will not fail because it is made of solid polypropylene which is puncture proof.

Zoeller performs tests on its snap action 2-pole vertical switch used for the Professional Product Pump Line. Tests show their mechanical switches can last one million cycles. Now, because the switch used on the Premium Product Line has been upgrade to an electro mechanical switch, it will last much longer.

At some point in time, all switches need replacement. Fortunately for the home owner, Zoeller makes their replacement switch purchase and installment easy. Replacement by the homeowner is very doable.

5) The Zoeller Warranty

Zoeller meets and exceeds industry standards when it comes to sump pump warranty.

✓ The Premium Product Line submersible sump pumps, M63 and M95, have a 5 year warranty.

✓ The Professional Product Line submersible sump pumps, M53, M57 and M98, have a 3 year warranty. The backup pumps, the 540 Flex water powered, the AquaNot Key, Spin And Fit, and AquNot585 battery backup pumps also have a 3 year warranty.

✓ The Basic Product Line sump pumps made of cast iron, M73 and M75, and the pedestal pumps, M82 and M84, come with a 2 year warranty.

✓ The Basic Product Line sump pumps made of thermoplastic, M49, M72 and M76, and the pedestal pump, M81, have a one year warranty.

6) Manufactured And Tested In The USA

Few companies manufacture their own pumps and no one tests each pump before it leaves the factory.

Zoeller believes that making its own parts and building the pumps in its USA plants is a key component to controlling quality. For that very reason Zoeller builds its own motors. Unlike its competitors, it uses cast iron to enclose the motor so there is another layer of material to dissipate motor heat. Also since they make their own motors they ‘press’ them into the pump housing to eliminate common air gaps which heat during heavy pump operations and leads to motor overheating. Most manufacturers, if not all, rely on third party motors that are encased in aluminum and dropped into the pump housing leaving air gaps and using aluminum which does not dissipate heat well.

In addition Zoeller tests each pump twice before it leaves its USA factory. The first test places the pump under pressure to make sure there are no leaky seals. The second test puts the pump through a rigorous performance test to ensure it is capable of operating at their published performance rating.

We are proud owners of a Zoeller M53. We installed it in 2004 and it is still pumping away. We live in a high water table area so it gets a real workout especially during heavy rainstorms which seem to happen frequently. Since 2004 we replaced the float switch and gasket once. This is a real work horse and so heavy. Just looking at it gives us peace of mind because it is a beauty with weight.

Zoeller Primary Sump Pump Product Lines For Home Owners And Builders Budgets

Zoeller’s primary sump pumps are mostly submersible which means these pumps can be under water without damage to any of their parts. They are built to handle continuous pumping while being inundated with water. They are known as primary sump pumps because they are built to be your main sump pump that runs on electricity. One of its primary models is known as a pedestal pump which means the motor cannot be submersed in water.

The primary sump pump product line options make ownership possible for more home owners today. Those on a tight budget can install the Basic Product Line. Those on a more flexible budget can install the 1950s original Professional Product Line or its 2017 upgrade known as the Premium Product Line.

Zoeller’s Basic Product Line

Zoeller 75 M76 sump pump pictured Zoeller’s Basic product line caters to the home owner or builder on a tight budget with small water volume and little continuous pumping during heavy rain storms. The Basic Product Line includes the Zoeller Models (M49, M72, M73, M75, M76, Pedestal Pumps M81, M82 and M84 and backup pump AquaNot 507). This product line uses cast iron motor housing except for M72, M76 and M81 which are all plastic. The other models have a motor housing of cast iron, models M49, M73, M75, M82 and M84. The base and head (switch case) are thermoplastic which does not dissipate heat as well and thus results in quicker switch failure. The pedestal M82 and M84 have a 7-1/2 HP power cord but the test have a nine foot power cord. Just like the other product lines, the basic pumps have over heat protection, stainless steel metal parts, a discharge size of 1-1/2 inches, except the M81 at 1-1/4 inch discharge port) and a vortex impeller. The warranty varies from 1 to 3 years.

Zoeller’s Professional Product Line

Zoeller M53 53-001 Submersible Sump Pump pictured Zoeller’s Professional product line caters to the home owner on a more flexible budget with large water volume and continuous pumping during heavy rain storms.

✓ The Professional Product Line is the Mighty Mate and Flow Mate Series (M53, M57, M98, BN53, BN57, BN98, N53, N57, N98) manufactured, assembled and tested in the USA Plant.

✓ Testing procedures are performed on each pump, testing for leaks and performance, before it leaves the plant.

✓ This product line uses cast iron housing, a cast iron head (switch case) and a partial to full cast iron base depending upon the model. The cast iron head dissipate heat better than the thermoplastic head used in the Entry Level Product thus resulting in longer switch life.

✓ The Shaded Pole motor is not as efficient as a Permanent Split Capacitor; however its life is longer.

✓ The power cord connection is more robust, and it features a nine foot to fifteen foot power cord.

✓ Just like the other product lines, the Professional Line pumps have over heat protection, stainless steel metal parts, a discharge size of 1-1/2 inches and a vortex impeller.

✓ The most commonly used float switch is the vertical snap action switch; however other options include the variable float switch and the float less switch.

✓ The warranty is 3 years.

Zoeller’s Premium Product Line

Zoeller M63 Submersible Sump Pump at SumpPumps.PumpsSelection.com pictured The Premium Line Is Costly But Provides More Peace Of Mind With More Quality Features.

✓ The Premium product line (M63, M95) offers a 5 year warranty because a solution is provided to extend the life of the Premium product line’s snap action switch. Not only is an extra viton boot used to keep the switch cooler but it also protects it from potential moisture penetration as the gasket between the body and the head wears. The movement of the switch is decreased by the inclusion of electronic control.

✓ An additional piece of diagnostics is added: the LED plug lights up when the source of electricity is active.

✓ An extra foot of cord length is included which is always a welcomed addition.

Model Features For Zoeller’s Primary Submersible Sump Pump 3 Product Lines

The Basic Models List

✓ M49 Water Riddr, 1/4 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Plastic Pump Housing And Base, Tether Float Switch with 32 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 10 ft. cord, 1 yr Warranty.

✓ M72 1/3 HP Plastic Motor and Pump Housing, and Base, Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 38 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 1 yr Warranty.

✓ M73 1/3 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Engineered Plastic Pump Housing and Base, Easily Detachable Snap Action Vertical Float Switch with 38 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty. It’s also known as 1073-0001 or M73-0001

✓ M75 1/2 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Engineered Plastic Pump Housing and Base, Easily Detachable Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 50 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty. It’s also known as 1075-0001

✓ M76 1/2 HP Plastic Motor and Pump Housing, and Base, Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 50 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 1 yr Warranty.

✓ 1096-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing and Switch Case, Vertical Reed Float Switch, with 80 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ 1084-0001 1/2 HP Pedestal Pump, Cast Iron, with 65 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, 8 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty. Also known as 84-0001.

✓ 1099-0001 3/4 HP PRO Cast Iron Housing and Switch Cap, Dual Vertical Float Switch for Switch Redundancy, with 80 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

The Professional Models List

✓ M53-0001 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing and Switch Case, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ BN53-0032 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ N53-0032 OR N53-0002 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, Manual with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ M57-0011 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap And Base, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ BN57-0033 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap And Base, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ N57 Manual, 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Base, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ M98-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ BN98-0005 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

✓ N98-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, Manual with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

The Premium Models List

✓ M63-0001 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, Switch Case, Base, Impeller Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, Viton Switch Boot, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 10 ft. cord, LED Lighted Plug, 5 yr Warranty.

✓ M95-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing, Switch Case, Base, Impeller Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, Viton Switch Boot, with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, LED Lighted Plug, 5 yr Warranty.

How To Install The Primary Submersible Sump Pump

Installing a Zoeller primary sump pump is easy. Its a matter of six steps.

1) Unplug the pump, unclamp the check valve so the discharge piping is loose and remove the old pump.

2) Remove the pipe from the old pump port and screw it into the new pumps discharge port.

3) Lower the new pump with the pipe into the sump basin.

4) Connect the pump with its discharge pipe to the check valve end. It is always wise to replace the check valve when installing a new pump.

5) Plug in the pump.

6) Fill the basin with water and test the fittings for leakage and that is it. So that is easy; wouldn’t you agree? Installing the Zoeller Primary Sump Pump Installing a Zoeller sump pump is easy.

Watch A Primary Submersible Sump Pump Install

Download Zoeller’s Installation Manual For Professional Primary Sump Pump Mighty Mate 50 Series Other Model Installs Basically the Same

The Zoeller Backup Sump Pumps

What Happens If The Power Goes Out? Zoeller Company believes in providing sump pump help for power outages too.

No sump pump system is complete without the installation of a backup system. At some point in time the electricity or primary pump will fail during a heavy rain storm leaving your home without protection against a flooded basement. This is why installing a backup pump is crucial.

Two Zoeller Backup Pump Types Which Is Best?

Zoeller Company provides two types of backup pumps to mitigate power and primary pump failure: the battery backup pump and the water powered backup pump. Both pump types have their advantages and disadvantages.

Which backup pump is best for your water pumping needs depends upon the volume of water present during heavy rainstorms. Learn more about both options now.

Zoeller 508-0005 Battery Backup Sump Pump pictured The battery backup pump requires an operational battery and has the greatest pumping capability. But battery power depletes after 5 to 6 hours of continuous pump operation. Batteries need to be replaced every 5 – 7 years. And it is impossible to predict when the battery will die.

The water powered pump requires no maintenance but requires a consistent water pressure of at least 40 pounds per square inch (psi) and can only remove 12 gallons of basin water per minute. City water is very dependable. As long as city water with a pressure of 40 PSI or greater, the water powered pump will continue to run. However, if the value controlling the city water flow fails, a high water bill may occur.

Each backup pump option has its pros and cons. The best solution for your water pumping needs is the one that keeps up with the water flowing into the basin during heavy rainstorms. After that it’s a matter of which options meets your desired degree of maintenance involvement.

The Battery Backup Sump Pump

A battery backup sump pump is the most common backup system option. It can handle more water volume than the water powered pump. However the battery is something that must be monitored and replaced periodically.

To help you learn more about it we define how it works, Zoeller’s Battery Backup Product Lines, how to install it and an opportunity to watch an install in action.

How The Battery Backup Sump Pump Works

Just like the primary submersible pump, the battery backup pump has a float switch. When the water reaches the float it begins to rise. When the water reaches the predefined height set by the manufacturer, the circuit is complete and the controller sends battery power to the motor. As long as the level remains above the predefined height the pump keeps running. When the water lowers the float lowers, the circuit is no longer engaged and the controller stops the battery from sending more power and the battery backup pump stops.

Just as primary sump -pump features and approaches differ by pump manufacturer, so do features for the battery backup pump differ.

Zoeller’s Battery Backup Sump Pump Product Line Similarities

Zoeller has three battery backup pump options known as the AquaNot Series. If we were to view the backup pumps as a 3 tier level like the primary pumps, the AquaNot Key 507 is the Entry Level; the AquaNot Spin 508 is the Professional Level and the AquaNot Fit 508 is the Premium level. The Sentry backup product line is retired. These options come with a plastic pump made by Zoeller in the USA, a battery box, battery charger, controller and a vertical switch.

All options can be installed in line and use the same discharge piping as the primary pump or can be placed on the bottom of the basin and hooked up to their own discharge piping. A separate pipe adds protection because the primary piping could become clogged or frozen in the winter and fail to perform.

All Zoeller AquaNot models are self-tested daily. The home owner can choose the time of testing. In addition the following adverse events are monitored: float switch, bad battery, pump activation, and air lock.

Zoeller’s Battery Backup Basic Product Line

Zoeller 507-0005 Battery Backup Sump Pump 3 yr warranty pictured The Sentry 507 and AquaNot Key 507 backup pumps are known as the basic level pump. The Sentry 507-0005 has built-in WiFi capability while the Aquanot Key 507 does not. Their pumping performance is half that of both 508 product lines (900 gallons per hour),. The Aquanot Key 507 has no airlock diagnostics. Because its gallons pumped per minute is lower, the battery lasts an additional hour when pumping continuously. The continuous runtime is measured at seven hours.

The Sentry 507 alerts the home owner when the battery is bad and the pump is activated. It has a rapid charging system with built in WiFi capability for mobile monitoring and alerts.

The AquaNot Key 507 has the same alerts as the Sentry 507 but also includes alerts for the home owner when the switch fails, and air lock occurs. In addition, the pump is automatically tested once daily. The time of testing can be set by the home owner.

Zoeller’s Battery Backup Professional Product Line

Zoeller 508-0005 Battery Backup Sump Pump 3 yr warranty pictured The Aquanot Spin 508 pumps 35 gallons a minute at a 10 foot vertical height. The pump can run continuously for 5-1/2 hours or several days pumping a couple of times an hour. To ensure it is working properly it tests itself once a day. If there is room to set the pump on the basin floor the feet it comes with will protect it from bottom sludge. Its home owner alerts include: bad battery, pump activation, switch fault, and air lock.

Airlock is an unexpected occurrence which causes the pump to run without pumping any water. This can lead to a flooded basement. If airlock occurs the pump is caused to start and stop multiple times until the air trapped between the impeller and the check valve is removed.

The switch has a separate plugin port so its failure can be identified. The home owner can set the time of day the pump self-tests itself. If the self-test fails the alarm sounds. This model comes with air lock diagnostics.

Zoeller’s AquaNot II 585 Pedestal battery backup sump pump has been a dependable pump for Zoeller for over 25 years. Many prefer a backup motor that is easy to access. It’s pumping performance is equal to that of the M53, M57 and M63 and the AquaNot 508; it has a Stainless steel column and shaft, comes equipped with automatic electronic 28.0 amp charger, and a pump alarm.

Zoeller’s Battery Backup Premier Product Line

Zoeller AquatNot Fit 508 Battery Backup Sump Pump 3 yr warranty pictured The Premier line is the AquaNot Fit 508. The difference between the AquaNot Spin 508 and the Aquanot Fit 508 is the AuuaNot Fit 508 has WiFi connectivity, a battery replacement reminder and a second float, a reed float otherwise they are identical.

The dual switch provides redundancy in case of switch failure. Failure alert is provided for both switches: the reed switch and the vertical float switch. If there is no first switch failure, booster mode is activated. Zoeller’s boost Node feature is designed to increase the battery amperage flowing to the Aquanot Fit 508 pump by 10% when the primary float switch is overtaken by the volume of water flowing into the basin. Speeding up the pump motor can prevent a flood.

WiFi connectivity is made possible with Z control which sends a failure alert text to a mobile device or an email to a laptop. Notifications can also be received by multiple devices.

How To Install The Zoeller Battery Backup AquaNot Sump Pump

Installing a battery backup pump requires more effort than installing a primary sump pump because of the complexity of the AquaNot backup system components, wires and the float’s relationship to the primary float. We provide a video below for more installation details.

Here are the seven basic steps for installing a AquaNot Battery Backup System.

1) Identify the location for the pump. It can be installed either on the basin floor or in line with the primary pump discharge piping system. Once the location is identified, install the pump.

2) Attach the float to the vertical discharge pipe higher than the ON height of the primary float but lower than the ground water inlet into the basin.

3) Find a wall location that will stay dry even if a flood should occur and attach the control box there.

4) Place the battery box on something so its sits off the floor. Then place the battery in the box.

5) Hook the pump, the float and the battery into their proper slots in the control box.

6) Pull the primary pump plug from its electrical power source. Then pour water in the basin to activate the battery backup pump. Find out if it operates properly.

7) That’s it.

See A Battery Backup Sump Pump Install

Here’s the Zoeller AquaNot Backup Sump Pump video with very helpful installation tips and tricks.

Download Zoeller’s Installation Manual For AquaNot Key 507 Battery Backup Sump Pump

Download Zoeller’s Installation Manual For AquaNot Spin 508 Battery Backup Sump Pump

Download Zoeller’s Installation Manual For AquaNot Fit 508 Battery Backup Sump Pump

The Water Powered Backup Sump Pump

A water powered sump pump is the preferred backup pump for many because it has no mechanical parts and is maintenance free. In case you are unfamiliar with it, we explain what it is, how it works and how to install it.

What Is A Water Powered Sump Pump?

A water powered sump pump is a pump that relies on city water pressure as its source of power to remove water from a sump pit. It looks much different from the other pump types because it has a suction tube inserted into the pit an ejector which cannot be submersed in water. Most models also rely on a float inserted into the basin to let the ejector know when to receive and stop water flow.

There are no moving parts; however there are parts that can fail such as the float or ejector.

Zoeller’s Water Powered Pump Product Line

Zoeller 540 Flex Water Powered Backup Sump Pump 3 yr warranty pictured Zoeller’s water powered sump pump, 540 Flex system, relies on the following parts to operate.

✓ A diaphragm switch. The diaphragm is placed in the basin to sense the water pressure and activate the switch which operates the valve to request fresh water flow from the city supply line entering the home.

✓ A suction pipe. Water is sucked up through the suction pipe which connects to the discharge piping directed away from the home.

✓ An ejector. The ejector regulates and responds to the float and city water pressure to provide the pressure needed to suck the water up through the suction pipe and out the discharge piping.

✓ A quick connect to the city supply line. The size provided is 3/4 inches in diameter.

✓ A quick connect of the suction pipe to the outbound discharge piping. Either a 1-1/4 inch or 1-1/2 inch diameter can be used.

✓ An inlet shut off valve installed between the city water supply and the pump valve mechanism is recommended to prevent fulfilling the request for city water in case something malfunctions.

✓ A backflow preventer installed between the pump valve mechanism and the city inlet pipe.

✓ A check valve installed after the pump valve mechanism but after the suction pipe connection to the discharge piping so when the pump stops the water will not return to the basin.

How The Water Powered Backup Sump Pump Works

A water powered pump relies on the pressure of city fed water to operate. If the water pressure is less than 40 pounds per square inch (PSI) the pump will not operate properly. The ejector, installed either in the ceiling joist or horizontally to the floor at a height that won’t get flooded, is connected to a feed from the city water supply line entering the home on one end and to a discharge pipe on the other end that directs the water from the basin away from the house.

As the water fills the basin and rises to the height of the diaphragm switch which sits higher than the primary float switch, the pressure of water presses against the diagram switch causing the ejector to begin operation by allowing the city water to enter the ejector. Water pressure builds as it is constricted to a 3/4 inch diameter pipe as it enters the ejector. It’s this pressure that sucks up the water in the basin through a suction tube which is connected to the discharge piping system directing water flow away from the house.

Two gallons of sump basin water is removed for every one gallon of city water used. Since the home owner may not realize the water pump is on, it is recommended that a high water alert alarm be installed so as To avoid an unexpected high water bill.

How To Install The Water Powered Backup Sump Pump

The following video by Zoeller company gives understanding of the 540 Flex Water Powered Sump Pump. Unless you are confident in adding a branch off the main water line coming into the house, it is probably best to hire a plumber.

Download Zoeller’s Installation Manual For Flex 540 Water Powered Sump Pump

Conclusion

Zoeller sump pumps are built with the home owner and plumber in mind. Both parties are looking for quality and dependability. Zoeller provides that by using quality cast iron steel for its motor and pump outer housing, makes upgrades to its product lines, and tests all pumps before they leave the factory.

Zoeller has three primary sump pump product lines. One for every budget: the basic, the professional and the premium line. These sump pumps have similar features: a vortex impeller, a snap action switch, cast iron pump housing, and two levels of testing before leaving the factory. The difference between these product lines is seen in the degree of cast iron usage, and switch materials. The Premium line and the M57 are completely made of cast iron; the M53 and M98 do not have a cast iron impeller and the M53 base is partially cast iron; however the switch case is cast iron for best motor heat dissipation. The Basic Product Line pumps base and switch head are thermoplastic.

Zoeller backup sump pumps protect the home owner with an active sump pump that can potentially fail because of electrical outage, water volume overload or switch failure.

There are two types of backup pumps: the water powered and the battery backup. Both the 540 Flex and the AquaNot 507 are capable of pumping 900 gallons per hour; however their source of power is different. The 540 Flex is a water powered backup pump and relies on city water pressure of at least 40 psi to operate and can run indefinitely when city water pressure is present. The AquaNot 507 relies on a battery to operate and operates only as long as the battery is charged which is around 7 hours of continuous pumping when fully charged.

The AquaNot Spin 508 and the Aquanot Fit 508 also operate on battery power; however they can pump 2,100 gallons per hour and operate as long as the battery is charged which is around 6 hours of continuous pumping. The AquaNot Fit 508 is for the home owner who desires Wifi notification during pump operation.

So What Are Your Thoughts On The Zoeller Company Sump Pumps? Are they a fit for you? If so, which one is best for you?

How To Pick The Best Sump Pump For Your Water Pumping Needs

The following steps will help you to pick the best sump pump for your water pumping needs.

✓ Take notice how often the primary sump pump runs and how long it runs during heavy rainstorms.

✓ Calculate how much water pumps during a heavy rainstorm.

1) To do this know the distance between the ON and OFF cycle of your existing pump. The manufacturers pump manual will tell you.

2) Measure the diameter of your basin. One inch equals one gallon of water pumped in an 18 inch diameter basin. One inch equals two gallons of water pumped in a 24 inch diameter basin.

3) Note how many times the pump cycles ON and OFF per minute.

4) Multiply that number by 60 because there are 60 minutes in an hour and pumping performance is also posted as GPH (gallons pumped per hour) by pump manufacturers.

5) Check the pump performance chart to see which pump will best meet your pumping needs.

✓ Decide the degree of features you want – The Basic, Professional or Premium.

✓ Act accordingly.

We wish you well as you choose the best sump pump for your needs.

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The Three Zoeller Sump Pump Types Are: Primary, Battery Backup and Water Powered.

Choose A Zoeller Pump Type; Then Shop Its Related Models.

Zoeller Basic Product Line Primary Sump Pumps

Zoeller 49 Water Riddr Automatic Submersible 0.25 HP Tether Float Sump Pump

Zoeller M49

M49 Water Riddr III, 1/4 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Plastic Pump Housing And Base, Tether Float Switch with 32 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 10 ft. cord, Automatic, 1 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller 49-0005 Water Riddr III

Zoeller M72

M72 , 1/3 HP Plastic Motor and Pump Housing, and Base, Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 38 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, automatic, 9 ft. cord, 1 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller M73

M73 1/3 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Engineered Plastic Pump Housing and Base, Easily Detachable Snap Action Vertical Float Switch with 38 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller M75

M75 1/2 HP Cast Iron Motor Housing, Engineered Plastic Pump Housing and Base, Easily Detachable Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 50 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller 75-0001

Zoeller M76

M76 1/2 HP Plastic Motor and Pump Housing, and Base, Snap Action Vertical Float Switch, with 50 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, Automatic, 1 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller M76

Zoeller M84 0.50 HP Automatic Pedestal Primary Sump Pump

Zoeller M84-0001

1084-0001 1/2 HP Pedestal Pump, Cast Iron, with 65 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, 8 ft. cord, 2 yr Warranty. Also known as 84-0001.

Shop Zoeller M84-0001

Zoeller Professional Product Line Primary Sump Pumps

Automatic Primary Sump Pumps

Zoeller M53

M53-0001 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing and Switch Case, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller BN53

BN53-0032 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller M57

M57-0011 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap And Base, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller BN57

BN57-0033 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap And Base, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller BN57 BN2067

Zoeller M98

M98-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, Vertical Snap Action Float Switch with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller BN98

BN98-0005 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Non Automatic (Manual To Automate Add A Float Switch) Primary Sump Pumps

Zoeller N53

N53-0032 OR N53-0002 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, Manual with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller N57

N57 Manual, 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing And Base, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller M98

Zoeller N98

N98-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing And Switch Cap, Manual with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 15 ft. cord, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller Premium Product Line Primary Sump Pumps

Zoeller M63

M63-0001 1/3 HP Cast Iron Housing, Switch Case, Base, Impeller Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, Viton Switch Boot, with 43 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 10 ft. cord, LED Lighted Plug, 5 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller M95

M95-0001 1/2 HP Cast Iron Housing, Switch Case, Base, Impeller Vertical Snap Action Float Switch, Viton Switch Boot, with 72 GPM at 5 ft. vertical height, non-clogging vortex impeller, 9 ft. cord, LED Lighted Plug, 5 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller Battery Backup Sump Pumps

Zoeller Sentry 507

Sentry 507 12 Volt DC Backup, Fully Automatic Pump And Charger, alerts the home owner when the battery is bad and the pump is activated. It has a rapid charging system with built in WiFi capability for mobile monitoring and alerts.Provides Up To 7 Hours Of Continuous Pumping, 1 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller AquaNot Spin 508

AquaNot Spin 508 12 Volt DC Backup, Self testing 12 Volt backup sump pump system. Fully Automatic, and Industry Best Performance and Efficiency, Pumping Performance 2,100 GPH @ 10 Foot Vertical Height, Early Warning and Smart Diagnostics, Supervised Switch Connections, Provides Up To 6 Hours Of Continuous High Performance, 3 yr Warranty.

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Zoeller AquaJot Fit 508 Automatic, Self Testing, WiFi Connection and Notification, Up to 6 Hours Of Pumping Performance, 3 yr warranty

Zoeller AquaNot Fit 508

AquaNot Fit 508 12 Volt DC Backup, With built-in WiFi for Z Control® Enabled Notification And Remote Access, Z Control® Cloud and App, Self testing, Fully Automatic, and Industry Best Performance and Efficiency, Pumping Performance 2,100 GPH @ 10 Foot Vertical Height, Early Warning and Smart Diagnostics, Supervised Switch Connections, Provides Up To 6 Hours Of Continuous High Performance, 3 yr Warranty

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Zoeller 585 Pedestal Battery Backup Sump Pump Aquanot II 3 yr warranty

Zoeller AquaNot II 585

Aquanot 585 Pedestal Battery Backup Sump Pump has a 25 year track record of good performance, 12 Volt DC Backup, Stainless steel column and shaft, Non-corrosive base assembly, 49 GPM or 2940 GPH @ 5 vertical feet, Discharges water as fast as many 1/3 HP primary pumps, is equipped with automatic electronic 28.0 amp charger to maintain and recharge battery, Includes a Pump alarm, 3 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller AquaNot II 585

Zoeller Battery Box for AquaNot Series Backup Sump Pumps

Zoeller AquaNot Battery Box

AquaNot Battery Box is made of high strength engineered plastic, capable of handling a Group 27 or Group 31 batter.

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Batteries For Zoeller Battery Backup Pumps

MightyMax Battery for Aauanot 508 backup Sump Pump

Mighty Max Batter For Zoeller Aqunot 508

Might Max 12 Volt Battery, 125AH (amp hours) Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) rechargeable maintenance free battery, SLA / AGM spill proof battery has a characteristic of high discharge rate, wide operating temperatures, long service life and deep discharge recover.

Shop Mighty Max Battery for Aquanot 508

Zoeller Battery No 10-0761 Wet Cell Requires Maintenance Group Size 31

Zoeller AquaNot Battery 10-0761 Group 31

AquaNot Battery 10-1450 12 Volt DC Backup, Wet Cell Maintenance Required, Group Size 31, 5-7 Continuous Run, 1 yr Warranty.

Shop Zoeller 10-0761 AquaNot Wet Cell Battery

Zoeller Battery No 10-1450 AGM Maintenance Free 180 Reserve Minutes Group Size 27

Zoeller AquaNot AGM Battery 10-1450

AquaNot Battery 10-1450 AGM Maintenance Free, Group Size 27, 5-7 Continuous Run, 180 Reserve Minutes, 3 yr Warranty

Shop Zoeller AquaNot Fit 508

Zoeller Water Powered Sump Pump

Zoeller 540 Flex

540 Flex relies on city water pressure which must be at least 40 psi to pump 15 GPM or 900 GPH, has no mechanical moving parts, requires no maintenance, 3 yr warranty

Shop Zoeller 540 Flex

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