For most basements that want 1/2 HP cast iron flow with a vertical float at a fair price.
Amazon $205.77The Red Lion RL-SC50V is the better sump pump overall, rated 3.1 to 2.9. The Red Lion RL-SC50V leads on value. The Liberty Pumps 287 wins on flow. The Red Lion RL-SC50V costs $117.48 less ($205.77 vs $323.25).
For a deep basement or a pit that fills fast, where a strong cast iron pump that fits a narrow pit is worth paying for.
Amazon $323.25Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Red Lion RL-SC50V for value ($68.59 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($205.77, 3,000 GPH) vs $97.95 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($323.25, 3,300 GPH)).
- Choose the Liberty Pumps 287 for flow (3,300 GPH at 10 ft vs 3,000 GPH at 10 ft).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 1/2 HP and up sump pump; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Red Lion RL-SC50V | Liberty Pumps 287 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 30% | 54 $68.59 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($205.77, 3,000 GPH) | 24 $97.95 per 1,000 GPH at 10 ft ($323.25, 3,300 GPH) |
| Flow 30% | 20 3,000 GPH at 10 ft | 32 3,300 GPH at 10 ft |
| Build 20% | 67 cast iron motor housing, switch fits a narrow pit | 67 cast iron motor housing, switch fits a narrow pit |
| Warranty 20% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
Specifications
| Red Lion RL-SC50V | Liberty Pumps 287 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pumping | ||
| Motor | 1/2 HP | 1/2 HP |
| Type | Submersible | Submersible |
| Flow at 10 ft | 3,000 GPH | 3,300 GPH |
| Flow at 0 ft | 4,300 GPH | 4,140 GPH |
| Max lift | 28 ft | 39 ft |
| Discharge | 1.5 in | 1.5 in |
| Running current | 5.3 A | 8 A |
| Switch and build | ||
| Switch | Vertical float | Vertical float |
| Cast iron housing | Yes | Yes |
| Alarm or monitoring | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | No | No |
| Cord length | 10 ft | 10 ft |
| Weight | - | 29 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
