8 Best Zoeller Sump Pumps (Reviewed and Ranked) (2024)

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Zoeller Sump Pumps Compared

Let’s start off with the Zoeller M53 sump pump review since this is the company’s top-selling product. The Zoeller m53 sump pump has a horsepower of ⅓, which some say is the ideal HP for a residential sump pump. It has a flow rate of 43 gallons per minute that is perfect for both sump pits and septic systems. There are several models in the Zoeller 50 Series, but this M53 is the obvious winner.

The Zoeller M53 Mighty Mate submersible sump pump ⅓ HP is all about durability. The majority of the pump is made from heavy-duty cast iron, including the switch case, motor, and pump housing. There are a few parts and pieces that are made from thermoplastic, like the base and parts of the impeller, but thermoplastic has been proven to withstand corrosion and last for years.

The pump is compatible with both 115 and 230V and amperage between 4.8 and 9.7. The cast iron and thermoplastic construction mean that this pump is completely resistant to rust and corrosion, so it's easy to maintain. Another loved feature is the 1.5" discharge capacity, as well as the generous amount of space between the bottom of the pump and the feet - this allows for higher water intake. In other words, the M53 won't disappoint in terms of water-pumping performance.

Many plumbers claim that the M53 is their top pick for sump pumps, and we agree. It’s reliable, durable, and affordable, but there is just one drawback. If you’re not well-versed in sump pump mechanics and installation, DIY installation may not be the way to go. DIY installation can be tricky - it’s not out of the question, but many homeowners choose to call a pro plumber.

The 105-0001 model uses the Zoeller M53 Mighty Mate submersible sump pump, but it offers more than just a pump. It also comes with an included catch basin and check valve. This is a member of the company’s Drain Pump Series, which "removes water from areas where gravity flow is not available such as laundry trays, wet bar sinks, lavatories, air conditioning condensate and dehumidifiers. It can also be used in conjunction with dishwashers and garbage disposal." And of course, it's also suitable for use in sump pits.

The automatic, float-operated mechanical switch works with 115V outlets, and similar to the M53, it comes with 1" to ½" NPT threading. The 9' 3-wire cord and prong are UL listed, and installation is easier than ever with this one (no need to dig a sump). The ⅓ HP motor works at 1550 revolutions per minute, and it's designed with a non-clogging vortex impeller.

The main drawback of the 105-0001 is that this is not typically used for sump pump operation. It's traditionally a laundry pump, but that shouldn't stop you from purchasing it. This is the M53 pump; it just comes with some added features that aren't usually needed for pumping sump pit water. Another negative feature is that it doesn't come with a backup battery, so you'll need to purchase one separately to keep your home safe from water damage during a power outage.

According to Zoeller M57 sump pump reviews, this is another member of the 50 Series that is worth investing in. It's got most of the same features as the M53, but there is one significant improvement that makes this the more "top of the range" model for homeowners. In the M53, the impeller is made from thermoplastic, but with the M57, it is constructed from more durable cast iron.

Not only is the cast iron slightly more durable, but it also improves the lifespan of the motor by distributing heat more evenly. If you’re willing to pay slightly more to protect your home from floods and humidity, the M57 may be the better choice for you. Since the motor is more protected from heat than other Zoeller models, you can expect the M57 to last for 10+ years.

This next Zoeller cast iron automatic submersible sump pump has some of the highest ratings out of all the Zoeller products. It is consistently given a 5-star rating, mainly because of its impressive pumping performance. Just like the other pumps we’ve covered, it has a 43 gallon-per-minute flow rate, a ⅓ HP motor, and it can pass solids measuring up to ½”.

The main difference between the 0016 and the original M53 is the length of the cord. The original model comes with a 9’ power cord, but this one goes all out with its 25’ 3-wire neoprene cord. If you know that a 9’ cord is too short for your basem*nt layout, then this is the better Zoeller pump for you. Everything else is basically the same, especially when it comes to pumping performance and reliability.

The chief complaint surrounding the 53-0016 is its float switch performance. This isn't a common complaint, but there have been a few users who have experienced float switch issues. Most of the problems are only experienced by homeowners with deep sump pits. If your sump pit is considered deeper than average, then you might want to consider purchasing an adjustable double float on/off switch to bypass the one on the pump.

A Zoeller non-automatic sump pump only operates when you tell it to, which means they're not the ideal choice for sump pumps. However, non-automatic pumps come with some advantages over automatic ones, like a wider range of applications. The Zoeller 53-0002 has all the same features as the popular M53, but instead of automatic operation, this is a non-automatic pump.

Non-automatic pumps aren't for everyone, but they're great if you want complete control of the pumping situations. If you plan on using this pump for a variety of applications and not just your sump pit, this is a better choice than the original automatic version of the 50 Series. Just like the original, it's constructed from mostly cast iron with bits of thermoplastic and stainless steel throughout.

For even more durability, the N53 comes with a powder-coated epoxy finish. The clog-resistant design has no screen to interfere with passing dirt and debris, and it's capable of passing solid spherical objects that have a ½" diameter. Like all Zoellers, the entire unit is factory-tested for pressure and performance, and this is why Zoeller is considered the leader of quality control in the entire industry.

Since this is a non-automatic pump, it does require a float switch, but all in all, this is just as strong as the other top-rated Zoellers, and it offers plenty of pumping power. This model comes with the standard 9' power cord, but you can upgrade to a longer one (up to 35') if needed).

So far on this list of Zoeller sump pump reviews, we've only covered pumps with ⅓ HP motors. Although ⅓ HP is plenty for most residential sump pumping scenarios, there is another option if you're looking for more power. The Zoeller 98-0001 is equipped with a ½ HP motor, so instead of 43 gallons per minute, it has an impressive flow rate of 72 GPM.

According to the majority of Zoeller M98 sump pump reviews left by customers of the 98-0001 model, this is the epitome of powerful performance. It's completely automatic and has an integral float switch with a 1.5" discharge and ½" capacity for passing solids. It's very similar to the other Zoeller pumps, but it has that extra oomph that some people prefer - especially those living in areas with high flood risks.

The 508-0005 Aquanot is entirely different from any Zoeller sump pump we've covered so far. It's specially designed as a battery-backup system that automatically starts as soon as your existing sump pump fails. This is a 12V, highly-efficient backup sump pump that can pump up 2340 gallons per hour (that's 39 gallons per minute).

The 508-0005 is the perfect backup system thanks to its built-in alarms for high water, low battery, and reverse polarity alerts. You’ll be alerted as soon as the pump is activated during a power outage. The thing we love most is the self-contained battery design, mainly because it’s equipped with battery burnout and overcharge protection. The LED screen displays all important information, including battery voltage and lifespan.

Like all Zoeller products, this one is handbuilt, and 100% tested in the USA, and it comes with a 3-year consumer warranty period. Just remember that this is a BACKUP system, so there is no primary pump included - you'll have to purchase that separately if you don't already have one. The main con is the high cost, especially considering that this is a backup system, but it's a small price to pay to keep your home - and more importantly, your family - safe.

The last of the Zoeller water powered sump pump models to review is the 503-0005, another excellent choice for homeowners who are prone to power failures. It's called the "Home Guard Max Water Powered Emergency System” for a reason. Whether you’re used to power failures or not, this is the best Zoeller for handling emergency power outages at home.

The 20 GPM flow rate is significantly lower than the other Zoeller sump pumps, but remember that this is for power failures - not for all-the-time use. It's powered by water - not by a battery or motor. There's absolutely no electricity required, and it can be used with any existing brand of sump pump - not just a Zoeller.

Like we said before, there’s no shortage of sump pump brands and models available on the market. Before settling on a Zoeller product, feel free to shop around to see what other popular brands are offering, like Barracuda, Little Giant, Wayne, and Everbilt.

The most common comparison is between a Wayne vs Zoeller sump pump, mainly because these are two of the most reputable manufacturers in the industry. When comparing the two, you’ll see that there are a lot of similarities in terms of style and material, but there are a few components that make Zoeller the obvious winner.

The first is Zoeller’s strategic use of cast iron motor housing. All Zoeller pumps have additional housing around the motor, and it’s always made from heavy-duty cast iron for better dissipation of heat. Wayne, on the other hand, uses less durable stainless steel. On top of that, Zoeller uses vortex impeller technology that lets debris up to .75” in size pass through the pump.

Zoeller provides detailed instructions for installation with each of its sump pump products. Before you install, always inspect your pump thoroughly and carefully read the user manual. After you’ve removed the old pump, clear out any sediment, debris, or standing water that remains in the sump pit. It’s also a good idea to turn off the electrical power to the plugs you’ll be working with.

Then, Zoeller says to “place your pump in the sump and attach the discharge piping. Be sure that the pump is positioned so that the float switch moves freely without touching the wall of the sump or other obstructions.” Once that’s done, install your check valve to prevent backflow (this can result in shortened motor life).

The next step is to plug the float switch cord into a grounded outlet, and then plug the pump into the switch plug. Turn the power back on, fill up the sump pit to check that the automatic float switch is working correctly. It's also suggested that you install a sump cover if you don't already have one to keep things (and people!) from falling into the pit.

There are also various YouTube videos to guide you, though they may differ depending on the specific product you have.

Here’s a full explanation of the Zoeller pump warranty policy:

1. 1

   Mount the battery to the wall near a grounded AC outlet.

2. 2

   Make all the necessary connections according to the specific manuals.

3. 3

   Test the battery installation by checking to see if the pump is working properly.

Buying Zoeller sump pumps on Amazon is becoming more popular, mostly because Amazon offers the best price and a pretty decent selection. If you buy directly from the Zoeller website, expect to pay a bit more.

Other options are shopping at Menards, Home Depot, or Lowes, but Amazon still wins when it comes to shopping convenience and the lowest prices.

After all is said and done with these Zoeller sump pump reviews, our #1 choice at Plumbing Lab is the M53 sump pump. It’s perfect for residential sump pumping in every way - horsepower, flow rate, durability… the M53 has got it all.

If you need something a bit more powerful, go with the Zoeller M98 sump pump instead (it’s equipped with a ½ HP motor instead of ⅓).