The 5 Best Portable Water Pumps – [Reviews & Rankings]

With flooding on the rise, it’s not uncommon for someone to need to remove large amounts of water. Bailing out water by hand or with a bucket can be time consuming (Source).

But, the best portable water pumps can help you easily transport water away from undesirable locations. A portable water pump is a lightweight and compact solution for water removal of any kind.

It’s typically powered by a motor that runs on fuel. However, portable water pumps, or transfer water pumps, can also be powered electrically by wall or battery power.

Portable water pumps typically funnel water using hoses. One hose is submerged into the water source, and the other directed to the desired location. Not all portable water pumps come with hoses.

Portable water pumps can be used for a variety of applications, for example draining a pool without professional help (Source). They’re also great for removing excess yard water, and removing water from flooded homes. 

Because they’re so lightweight and easy to use, portable water pumps are perfect for home and cottage owners as they can be used just about anywhere. Contractors might also employ a portable water pump to remove flood water.

Prior to purchasing a portable water pump, you’ll want to consider how many gallons per hour (GPH) or gallons per minute (GPM) it can handle. You’ll also want to consider its power source, noise level, and any possible warranties. 

Next time you’re stuck with a flood, you’ll definitely need one of these top-rated portable water pumps.

What is a Portable Water Pump?

Portable water pumps are powerful little tools that are useful for clearing out flooded basements, yards, and emptying pools. Essentially, these pumps take water from one end, and move it to another area with the use of a motor and hoses. Typically powered by gasoline, these water pumps are quite powerful despite their portable size.

Some popular applications for these devices include draining pools, removing flood water, and clearing excess rainwater from yards. Depending on what you plan to use your water pump for will greatly affect the exact model that you should look for. Some may need a simple handheld pump, where others might need an industrial gas-operated water pump.

Electric models are also widely available, and don’t require you to waste extra money on fuel. Just plug them in and they’re ready to go. Some models are evey powered by batteries, but it should be noted that these are often made for smaller projects.

While not everyone might not need a portable water pump lying around, one would definitely come in handy at some point in your life. Whether it is an unexpected basement flood or rain water has left your garden completely saturated, these tools are perfect for the job.

What is the Best Portable Water Pump?

The best portable water pump is the SHURFLO 4008-101-E65 3.0 Revolution. This versatile little machine is perfect for anyone who is looking for a water pump that can do a little bit of everything.

While this pump is rather small and would struggle at performing large tasks like emptying a pool, it is perfect for clearing up minor flooding. Operating off of 12V of electricity, this water pump is incredibly quiet compared to many of the other gas-powered models on the market.

Thanks to its simple setup and ease of operation, the SHURFLO 4008 3.0 is one of the best portable water pumps money can buy.

To help you make the right choice, here are reviews of some of the most sought-after portable water pumps today.

Comparing The Best Portable Water Pumps

1. SHURFLO 4008-101-E65 3.0 Revolution Water Pump – Best Overall

This SHURFLO product is evidently one of the most popular portable water pumps in the market today. Owing to its superior design and array of features, this product is relatively versatile in application. The SHURFLO 4008-101-E65 water pump offers the best blend of quality, affordability, durability and functionality in the industry today.

With regards to functionality, this product features a single-piece diaphragm.  This, along with its internal by-pass mechanism, contribute to the enhanced performance and durability offered by this product. The electrical pump is rated 7.5 Amps and should be connected to a 12 VDC power source. At its optimal performance, this unit can deliver a pressure of up to 55 PSI.

For reduced noise, the manufacture uses patent pending Flow Reaction Technology in this model. Additionally, this technology goes a long way in reducing excessive pump cycling and vibrations by the product. Since it is a quality and durable product, it is backed by a 2-year warranty by the manufacturer.

2. Active Aqua Submersible Water Pump – Most Affordable & Submersible Option

The Active Aqua manufacturer is renowned for producing some of the most durable, powerful and affordable water pumps today. This submersible pump by the manufacture is no exception. Although the product is comparatively affordable, it is powerful enough for medium sized reservoir tanks (about 55 gallons). In this regard, the unit features a powerful mag drive construction that is capable of delivering a flow rate of 550 Gallons per Hour (GPH).

These water pumps are specifically designed to deliver optimal performance and reliability in any hydroponic system. You will also find the pump relatively easy to service and its replacement parts easy to get. For instance, it is equipped with removable foam filters to ensure that the water being transferred is free of contaminants.

For reduced vibrations, this product is equipped with rubber mounting feet. The product comes with a six feet long heavy duty power cord. As such, you can use the pump away from the power socket.

3. WAYNE PC2 Portable Transfer Water Pump – Lifts Water More Than 35ft

If you are looking for a portable water pump that can lift water for more than 35 feet, you should consider buying the WAYNE PC2 Portable Transfer Water Pump.

This product is equipped with a 115 volt motor that is powerful enough for such a water head. Additionally, you will also get a 6 feet suction horse with this pump.Such aspects make the product rather versatile in application.

As such, it may be used in various utility applications, such as draining an aquarium, floors in construction sites and water beds. Although this is not a submersible model, the suction horse makes it easier for you to use the pump above the water you are transferring.

4. Flojet 18555-000A, Portable RV Waste Pump – Most Portable

This is one of the water pumps that were specifically designed with portability in mind. In this regard, you will find the unit easy to carry around as well as to connect and disconnect. To begin with, the Flojet 18555-000A, Portable RV Waste Pump comes with a convenient carry case. The product has a self-priming feature and may be used to remove both grey and black water from holding tanks.

For safety purposes, this product features a 30 seconds run dry protection. You may use the product with almost any 3 inch horse. This should be connected to the outlet on the housing of the pump. For enhanced flexibility, the product comes with a 6 feet power cable.

5. WAYNE PC4 1/2 HP Cast Iron Multi-Purpose Pump – Best Heavy-Duty Water Pump

If you have been researching the industry, you probably are aware that Wayne is one of the leading manufacturers of water pumps today. Just like the other Wayne product reviewed above, the WAYNE PC4 1/2 HP is durable, versatile and of high quality. As opposed to the other products reviewed in this guide, this unit is very powerful; hence suitable for heavy-duty water pumping applications.

With regards to durability, the housing of the pump is made of cast iron steel. This, along with the brass horse connections used on this product, makes it very durable. Despite being a heavy duty pump, the 1/2 HP transfer unit is relatively easy to carry and install. While functioning at its optimal performance, the pump can deliver a pressure of up to 50 PSI and a suction lift of about 15 ft at its inlet.

How to Use a Portable Water Pump?

Using a water pump is actually quite simple once you know what you are doing, but you should always exercise caution when handling these machines. High pressure and large volumes of water could result in serious property damage if you are not careful. 

• Step 1
  First, you will need to determine which type of portable water pump you are using. If it is electric, it will need to be plugged in. Motor operated pumps will need a fuel source, and will typically need to be primed before setting everything up. Some battery powered pumps will need to be fully charged in order to perform up to its maximum capabilities.
• Step 2
  Now you just have to attach your hoses and make sure that they are oriented correctly so that one end is sucking while the other dispenses the water. It is important that you just set up the hoses for now, and don’t start up the motor until you are ready to move some water. Depending on the type of connection, you may or may not need to start at a lower water pressure, so keep that in mind.
• Step 3
  Finally, flip the switch in order to start the pumping process. Water should come from one end and be expelled out the other side. If the pump does not seem to be working correctly, turn the power off and make sure that you have properly set everything up. As a powerful tool, you should always keep an eye out while using these pumps.

Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Portable Water Pump

Are you looking for a water pump that is comparatively easy to transport and store after use? You should consider buying a portable water pump right away.

In such a case, the weight as well as physical size of the pump will come in handy. As a rule of thumb, a portable water pump should be comparatively lightweight and feature a compact design.

However, you must have realized that the market is currently flooded with such products. As a result, choosing the best portable water pump can be a daunting task, especially if you do not know what to look for.

In addition to the weight and size considerations, here are several other considerations you need to make while looking for the right portable water pump:

If you are using portable water pumps it will run out of pressure and stop working if turned off for an extended period of time, such as over the winter. In order to make ready for operation again, it needs to be primed. Check out the step by step guide on How to prime a water pump?

1. Type of Pump

Well, not all the available water pumps are built the same. Depending on the intended application, the right type of portable water pump to buy may vary. In this regard, you need to consider the main types of pumps available today.

While shopping for the best portable water pump, these are some of the pump types you should consider:

• Electric Pumps

Most of the electric water pumps available today are stationery. However, you may also find a good electric pump that is portable. These are primarily powered by electricity and are available in several size options.

Such pumps can run continuously for many hours at a time and are eco-friendly. If you do not have access to electricity, you should avoid portable electric water pumps and go for the engine-powered units instead.

• Engine Powered Portable Water Pumps

As opposed to electric models, these are powered by a combustion engine that runs on either diesel or petrol. The good thing about this type of pump is that they do not require access to electricity. This makes them comparatively portable. However, the availability of a combustion engine makes these pumps heavier.

• Diaphragm Pumps

The various portable diaphragm pumps are suited for pumping thicker fluids. As such, they are a great choice for those looking forward to pump sewage, high solid containing water or mud.

• Jet Pumps

Are you looking for a portable pump that you can use to draw water from deep sources, such as a well? If so, it is advisable to buy a jet pump. Most of the jet pumps available today are powered by electricity. This makes them relatively lightweight and portable. However, there are also some jet pumps that are powered by diesel or petrol engines.

If you are using portable water pumps, consider buying the best condensate pumps as these devices come in handy when draining water, produced by the operation of household appliances.

2. Water Moving Capabilities

How powerful should your preferred water pump be? Most of the portable water pumps available today are not very powerful, as compared to the stationery pumps. While this is the case, you do not have to settle for a weaker model, just because it is portable. In this regard, here are some of the specifications you need to consider:

• Maximum Head

The heard refers to the vertical distance that a pump can move water. The maximum head of a portable water pump is an indicator of its suction height and uplift. You need to get a pump that is powerful enough to move the water to the desired point.

For instance, you may need to such water from a depth of 5 meters and then move it to a point, 25 meters above the pump. In such a case, your preferred portable pump should have a max head of at least 30 meters.

• Flow Rate

This is often expressed as liters per minute (L/Min) and indicates the amount of water a pump can transfer per minute. For a faster transfer of water, you should consider buying a product with a higher flow rate.

• Water Pressure

The water pressure will determine how far a pump can move water, hence is closely related to the max head. As such, the pressure of the water at the final destination will mainly depend on the max head of the pump.

For instance, the water pressure will be zero at a distance that is equal to the max head of the pump. If you need a higher pressure, you should get a pump whose max head is greater than the distance you are moving the water.

3. Quality and Reliability

While everyone is trying to save money while buying a portable water pump, it is not advisable to buy one just because it is affordable. As you may be aware, quality and reliability are a concern for most of the affordable pumps today. Instead, it is advisable to consider the quality of the materials and components used to make the pump.

To be on the safe side, it is advisable to buy the portable pumps that have a relatively long warranty period. It is only the quality and durable products that are backed by long period warranties by the manufacturer.

Ready To Buy The Best Portable Water Pump?

As you have learned throughout this guide, the choice of the right portable water pump depends on various things. To begin with, you need to ascertain the intended application of your new pump. The various units available today are built differently.

As such, some are more powerful than others. Since you are looking for a portable product, you need to get one that is both flexible and versatile in application.

Regardless of your personal preferences, this guide will help you choose the best portable water pump in the market today. The water pump is also needed for the Irrigation process for the garden. In most irrigation scenarios, soaker hoses are considered to be the most efficient way to go.