A sump pump is a device that is used to remove water that has accumulated in a sump basin. A sump basin is a pit that is dug into the ground, typically in a basement, to collect excess water from rainfall or groundwater.
Sump pumps are typically electrically powered and are designed to automatically turn on when the water level in the sump basin reaches a certain level. They are commonly used in homes to prevent flooding and water damage in basements. When water enters the sump basin, it is collected in the pit and the sump pump is activated. The pump is designed to move the water out of the basin and away from the home through a discharge pipe.
There are two main types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible. Pedestal sump pumps have a motor that is mounted above the sump basin and are typically less expensive than submersible pumps. Submersible sump pumps are designed to be placed directly in the sump basin and are typically quieter and more efficient than pedestal pumps.
So, can you use a sump pump to drain a pond? The short answer is yes, but it might not be as effective as a dedicated outdoor pond pump.
Which Sump Pump to Use in My Pond?
If you’re going to use a sump pump to drain your pond, keep in mind that some models will do a better job than others.
We highly recommend using the Wayne WaterBug. It is relatively easy to use and install, and it will definitely do a great job of draining your pond. It’s also compact, making it easy to move around.
Read: Best Sump Pump For Muddy Water
Difficulties You Will Face
Even though using a sump pump will get the job done, you need to be aware of a few problems you might encounter. One of the most common issues is a burned-out motor.
Most sump pumps tend to have powerful motors, so you need to ensure that it’s turned off as soon as the pond is drained, to make sure the motor isn’t run dry.
Make sure you also check there aren’t any faulty electrical connections. And you should ensure that the extension cord has a good length so that it can reach the pond without any challenges. Remember that without power, your sump pump will not be able to work, which means that your pond will not be drained.
Can a Sump Pump be used to Drain a Pond With Fountains?
You can absolutely use a sump pump to drain ponds with fountains. Make sure that the fountain isn’t turned on and that the drainage pump isn’t facing towards the fountain. If any part of the fountain set-up actually enters the sump pump motor, then you’ll experience problems with either the fountain or the sump pump, or both.
Can I Use a Sump Pump For a Water Feature?
There is absolutely nothing wrong with using a sump pump to drain water features, but we don’t suggest using a pump to power a water feature. Sump pumps are too powerful for this. They’re also a lot more expensive than the specialist smaller water feature pumps.
Can I Use a Sump Pump For a Waterfall?
You’ll definitely some people using a sump pump to power water features and waterfalls, but we don’t think it’s a good idea. Sump pumps are usually considered to be too large, too powerful and too expensive to use for these purposes.
Instead, find a small outdoor pump that is specifically designed for waterfalls or fountains. You will find these pumps to be less expensive, capable of pumping fewer gallons of water per hour, and they’ll do a wonderful job.