A 1/3 HP pump handles most basements: a lift of up to about 10 ft and a pit that fills at a normal rate in heavy rain. It costs less and draws less current than a 1/2 HP pump, which also makes it easier for a battery backup or generator to run.
Prices 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.
Full ranking 16
- Wayne CDU790#1 of 16Full review
A strong value for an ordinary basement: more flow at 10 ft than most 1/3 HP pumps for a modest price.
Amazon $136.90$136.901/3 HP3,060 GPHVertical float - Red Lion RL-33SC#2 of 16Full review
For a small pit with a real lift, where a compact cast iron pump with strong flow is worth a little more.
Amazon $203.84$203.841/3 HP3,000 GPHTethered float - Little Giant 6EC-CIA-SFS#3 of 16Full review
For a basement with a higher lift where a 1/3 HP pump with near 1/2 HP flow and a cast iron body is wanted.
Amazon $220.50$220.501/3 HP3,000 GPHTethered float - Wayne SPF33#4 of 16Full review
A light, low cost pump for a shallow basement with modest water. The 1 year warranty makes it a budget pick rather than a long term one.
Amazon $128.20$128.201/3 HP2,718 GPHVertical float - Red Lion RL-SP33V#5 of 16Full review
For a narrow pit on a budget, where a light pump with good flow and a vertical float does the job.
Amazon $114.99$114.991/3 HP2,366 GPHVertical float - Red Lion RL-SC33T#6 of 16Full review
For a standard or wide pit where a well priced cast iron 1/3 HP pump with good flow is wanted.
Amazon $182$1821/3 HP2,460 GPHTethered float - Red Lion RL-SP33PED#7 of 16Full review
For a narrow or shallow pit with a low lift, where a cheap pump with the motor out of the water is the easiest fix.
Amazon $105.84$105.841/3 HP2,040 GPHVertical float - Liberty Pumps 257#8 of 16Full review
For a typical basement where a long lasting cast iron pump with a reliable float matters more than raw flow.
Amazon $216.29$216.291/3 HP2,220 GPHVertical float - Zoeller M63 Premium#9 of 16Full review
For owners who want the longest lasting 1/3 HP class pump and are willing to pay for an all cast iron build and a 5 year warranty.
Amazon $311.25$311.250.3 HP2,040 GPHVertical float - Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate#10 of 16Full review
For a typical basement where you want a proven cast iron pump that will run for years. Buyers with a lift over 15 ft should step up to a 1/2 HP pump.
Amazon $188.33$188.330.3 HP2,040 GPHVertical float - Superior Pump 92341#11 of 16Full review
A sturdy, low cost cast iron pump for a shallow basement with modest water. Pick a higher flow pump if the pit fills fast.
Amazon $140.22$140.220.3 HP1,800 GPHVertical float - Liberty Pumps S37#12 of 16Full review
For a newer house or a gritty pit where a low cost Liberty pump that resists debris jams is enough.
Amazon $165$1651/3 HP2,100 GPHVertical float - Superior Pump 92372#13 of 16Full review
An inexpensive light duty pump for a basement that sees occasional water. The 1 year warranty makes it a short term choice.
Amazon $113.99$113.991/3 HP1,800 GPHVertical float - Little Giant 6-CIA#14 of 16Full review
For a small or shallow pit with light inflow and a low lift, where a compact cast iron pump with no float is the priority.
Amazon $213.95$213.951/3 HP1,740 GPHDiaphragm - Liberty Pumps 237#15 of 16Full review
For a narrow or shallow pit with modest inflow, where a light, compact Liberty pump with a magnetic float is enough.
Amazon $188.95$188.951/3 HP1,800 GPHVertical float - Superior Pump 92250#16 of 16Full review
A bare budget pump for a small, mostly dry pit or a spare. Homes with real water problems need more flow.
Amazon $95.49$95.491/4 HP1,200 GPHTethered float