5 Best Generator for Sump Pumps in 2024 [Reviews]

A sump pump is a vital machine that helps to clear out the excess water in the sump pit and avoid flooding your basement. These are intelligent devices that will start collecting excess water and continue dumping once they pick any dangerous cue of flooding. 

Running a pump needs electricity when it is sump feature. Therefore, you must wire them up with optimum power units. But what if there is a blackout? Don’t worry, this appliance can even work during blackouts and keep your basement safe. To do so, you need the best generator for sump pumps to continue the water extraction. 

You know! Sump pumps require a lot of surge power to start up and stabilize. It is better to get a generator that has a surge power of over 2000 watts. Such water-collecting machines take about 2000 watts to start up and work smoothly. Our first on the list the DURO-STAR DS4000S portable generator is amongst the best in the line.

A Quick List of Our 5 Best Generators for Sump Pumps

1. Best for Sump Pumps and Refrigerator- Durostar DS4000S Portable Generator
2. Best Portable Generator– Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator
3. Best Solar Generator- Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Watts
4. Best Choice for Indoor– WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Generator 
5. Best Quiet Generator– Westinghouse iGen2200 Inverter Generator

1. Durostar DS4000S Portable Generator

This is a generator that has a vast amount of power-generating capability. It is powered by fuel and its size and weight make it portable to carry around from one place to another.

It has a runtime of 12.3 hours. It can power refrigerators and sump pumps as well. Due to the functionality of it, it is considered the best generator for sump pumps and refrigerators. 

Specifications

Brand: Durostar
Dimension: 24x17x17 inches
Wattage: 3300 watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Weight: 94 pounds
Color: Black yellow combination

Features

It is a high-powering unit, with a peak wattage of 4000 watts and 3300 running watts. The high powering capability makes it applicable to boost up heavy-duty power tools and machines like refrigerators, Air Conditioners, etc.

Most importantly, comes with a voltmeter to measure the voltage. The unit has a selection of outputs in the power panel. One 120V 30A twist lock outlet and two 120-volt household outlets.

It has a low oil shut-off system, the tool stops working when the fluid reaches to lower level. Complies with emission standards, being as eco-friendly as possible. Approved by the Environmental protection agency and California air resources board.

2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

This model from Champion power equipment is a wonderful option to power sump pumps and RVs without a hitch. A generator model that functions with a dual fuel system, gasoline, and propane.

It can also store 0.6 quarts of oil and comes with an auto shut-off technology that shuts off the system when low fuel is detected. This generator is mostly desired by people for its mobility, and thus can be tagged as the best portable generator for sump pumps.

Specifications

Brand: Champion power equipment
Dimension: 25.1×17.3×18.3 inches
Wattage: 3400 watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Weight: 97.5 pounds
Color: Black yellow combination

Features

With quick touch control panel features, the Champion generator lets you operate conveniently. It has a 59dBA operating system, making it a quiet functioning tool. It comes with 3400 watts of surge power and continuous running power of 3100 watts. Can able to run up to 7.5 hours on gasoline and 14.5 hours on propane.

Moreover, this generator comes with one 120V 30A RV outlet, two 120V 20A household outlets, and a 12V DC outlet with a USB adapter. The dual-fuel system makes running easy with either propane gas or oil-based gasoline.

It provides clean electricity of less than 3% THD. This generator can be connected in parallel for more power.

So, if you are looking for a powerful option that is sufficient for your basement sump pump, get the Champion 3400-watt inverter generator. 

3. Jackery Solar Generator 1000

A generator is made to back you up even when you are off the grid. So, imagine what it can do to your house sump pump. The powerful solar panel backup makes it the best solar generator for sump pumps.

Always worried about the power system while you’re in travel. No more! You have a solution to it. With this  Jackery solar generator can be recharged with car outlets and wall outlets other than solar systems, making it one of the most flexible options to be carried around safely.

Specifications

Brand: Jackery
Dimension: 13.1×9.2×11.1 inch
Wattage: 1000 Watts
Voltage: 110 volts
Weight: 22.04 pounds
Color: Black and orange combination

Features

Zero-emission to the environment makes it an eco-friendly product. This generator has a surge wattage of 2000 watts and a running wattage of 1000 watts, making it enough to power sump pumps and keep it running even during power outages.

The portable power solution gives you enough options to charge the generator from sun rays when you travel outdoors. You can also use the outlets in your house to back up the power. It comes with 3 pure sine wave AC outputs. 2 Usb C outlets and 1 charge port that lets you boost your refrigerators, sump pumps, and other small equipment.

So, if flexibility, versatility, and eco-friendliness are what you need in one box, the Jackerey solar generator 1000 is the best option for you.

4. WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator 

The Wen 56203i is an ultralight tool to power up a sump pump. The wen generator is a portable generator that can be moved from one place to another.

Being an energy-efficient generator, it has a fuel shutoff system that uses the fuel in the carburetor to the maximum and suits down when low fuel is detected. This generator is EPA and CARB-compliant, making it easy on the environment.

Looked for pro features that provide clean, reliable power and curb harmonic distortion to 1.2 %. Also, suitable for cell phones, laptops, and similar small devices. then this one would be the best choice for indoor generating power for sump pumps.

Specifications

Brand: WEN
Dimension: 17.3.1×11.5×17.7 inches
Wattage: 1000 Watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Weight: 39 pounds
Color: Black and orange combination
Engine: 4 strokes

Features

Equipped with a 79cc 4 stroke OHV engine that makes it extremely quiet, with just 51 decibels at quarter load. It has a 1-gallon fuel tank. This device has a surge wattage of 2000 watts and running wattage of 1700 watts, workable enough for sump pumps.

It has a run time of 10.8 hours with a quarter load. Has an eco-mode that adjusts fuel consumption and extends the lifespan of the device. Increasing the wattage is now easier, with a parallel connection that lets you connect 2 Wen generators at a time. Comes with 2 3-prong 120V receptacles. One 12V DC outlet and two 5V USB ports.

5. Westinghouse iGen2200 Inverter Generator

If you are looking for a quiet generator to back up your basement kit. The iGen 2200 inverter generator is the one to go with. With just a 52-dBA noise level, it is one of the best quiet generators for a sump pump.

It is a generator that is fuel-efficient, meaning it will need less consumption to power at an optimum level. It has a 12-hour run time of up to 25% load. It is a great emergency backup option to have in your home and on outdoor expeditions. It has an intelligent engine power system that powers to a certain limit, whatever is necessary, and no more than that, saving power and fuel.

With less than 3 % THD stable power it is really worthy one. It has a parallel outlet that lets you add more power by connecting an extra generator. It comes with indicators to notify, low oil, and overload. 

Specifications

Brand: Westinghouse
Dimension: 19.8x 11.4 x 17.9 inches
Wattage: 1800 Watts to peak 2200 watts
Voltage: 120 volts
Weight: 46 pounds
Color: Blue and black combination

Features

A decent powered unit with 2200 peak wattage and 1800 watts running power. The engine speed can be interchanged, allowing it to be fuel-efficient. It comes with a built-in carry handle that makes it easy to carry around, weighing up to 46 pounds.

This generator has low-tone mufflers, asymmetrical cooling fans, and an insulated acoustic insulator that makes it super quiet. Powers cellphones, laptops, and other small devices with clean power of less than 3 % THD. Also, comes with 2 120V 5-20R household outlets and 2 5v USB ports.  

Best Sump Pump Generator Buying Guide

Before you go on to purchase a generator for backing up your housing underground devices, make sure you know the power rating of your pump and the generator you are buying. You don’t want to get something that has a low surge power, it might not be able to boost the machine in your sump pit.

Always make sure your generator has ample surge power and running power to function properly. There are some other factors you need to consider to get hold of the best Generator to run a water pump. Let’s check out what needs to be taken into consideration.

Power

The generator must have enough power to start up a particular unit. Remember that sump pumps use a hefty amount of power to start up.

So, getting a generator that exceeds the surge wattage of what it is powering, is the ideal way to go about it. Peak power of 4000 watts and a running wattage of 3000 watts plus, is an excellent choice. Check out the Durostar DS4000S on our list.

Run time

Get a generator that can last more than your sump pump’s working time. Getting a powerful generator like the Champion 3400 watts is a good option. It has a run time of 14 hours or so in propane and 7.5 hours in gasoline, which is more than enough to run a pump effectively.

Noise level

You don’t want to get an appliance that disturbs your ears or anyone in the house. You better go for a generator that has a low noise feature under 60 dBA. Check out the Westinghouse iGen generator; it has a 52-dBA noise level.

Dual fuel mode

It’s better to have different sources of power available to run your sump pump. Check out the Champion 3400 watts generator on our list, it runs with propane and gasoline, giving you enough options to keep the pump running.

The control panels

Make sure your generator has a display that shows all the functioning parameters. The control panel is where you will be controlling all the things in a generator.

Purchase something that boasts all the necessary features in a control panel, just like the Champion 3400 watts generator, which has a multi-functional control panel.

Price

Every generator is priced differently. Some are affordable, some can be on the higher end. No matter what, always abide by your budget.

Remember, there is a product for you out there. Check out reviewed products, these are all excellent generators. Always, buy something that fits your bill.

Related Best power inverter for sump pump

FAQ

• How many watts does a sump pump use?

½ HP sump pumps require at least 1050 running wattage to a maximum estimated surge of 4100-2150 watts. ⅓ HP machines require an estimated 800 watts of running power and up to 1300-2900 peak power.

• Can a 2000 watts generator run a sump pump?

Yes, it can. A sump pump needs a peak power of 2000 watts, so a generator with that rating can proficiently power a sump pump.

• What is the primary factor to consider before buying a generator for a sump pump?

Always make sure your generator has enough surge power to boost your sump pump and enough running power to keep it working to its optimum. Check your sump pump requirement before buying a generator.

• What is the best backup for a sump pump?

The best backup is undoubtedly a generator. It is designed to provide continuous power even in unavoidable circumstances such as power outages.

• What size generator do I need to run a sump pump?

It’s better to start with a 2000 watts generator and no less than that. It’s best to start with 3500 watts or more surge watts. For example, the Durostar in our list has a peak power of 4000 and stable power of 3300 watts. 

Final verdict

Now you know that running a sump pump during blackouts will require a generator backup. There is no better alternative than this. In this article, we have mentioned a list of the best generator for sump pumps to make things easier for you.

Compare the products and the features. Go and check out the generators physically to value the portability and flexibility of the device.

Cherry-pick a generator that complements your basement, serves as a racing horse and protects the sump pit from flooding in every given situation.