Black & Decker Water Pump

Owning a submersible water pump can be a game-changer for various household tasks, from emptying hot tubs to managing minor flooding. Recently, I had the opportunity to put the Black & Decker BXWP61603 submersible water pump through its paces, and I must say, it has some impressive features worth discussing.

First, let's talk about the build and design. The pump is constructed from fiberglass reinforced thermoplastic, which makes it incredibly lightweight and portable. Weighing in at just 5.6 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, even for extended periods. The foldable carry handle is a nice touch, making it compact and easy to store when not in use. The 10-foot power cord with onboard storage further adds to its portability, ensuring you don’t have to worry about tangled wires.

One of the standout features of this pump is its performance. With the ability to pump up to 2000 gallons per hour, it’s a powerhouse in its category. I used it to empty a hot tub, and it handled the task with ease, significantly reducing the time I usually spend on this chore. The pump also boasts a maximum vertical lift of 22 feet, which is quite impressive for a unit of this size. This feature is particularly useful if you need to move water to a higher elevation, such as draining a flooded basement.

The pump’s discharge options are versatile, featuring a 1-1/4 inch FPT discharge with a 3/4 inch garden hose adapter. This makes it compatible with standard garden hoses, which is a big plus for most homeowners. The impeller and removable intake screen are designed to prevent clogging, and they do their job well. During my usage, I didn’t encounter any issues with debris causing blockages, which is often a concern with submersible pumps.

A notable safety feature is the thermally protected motor. This is crucial for preventing overheating, especially during prolonged use. I ran the pump continuously for several hours, and it remained cool and efficient throughout. However, it’s worth mentioning that the pump doesn't have an automatic shut-off feature, so you need to monitor it to avoid running it dry.

Now, let’s address some of the limitations. The pump requires at least 2 inches of water to prime, which can be a drawback if you’re dealing with shallow water situations. Additionally, it only reduces the water level to about 1/2 inch, leaving a small amount of water behind. This might not be a deal-breaker for most tasks, but it’s something to keep in mind if you need the area to be completely dry.

Another point to consider is the lack of an on/off switch. The pump operates by plugging it in, and the only way to turn it off is by unplugging it. While this might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can be a bit cumbersome if you need to start and stop the pump frequently.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Black & Decker BXWP61603 submersible water pump is a handy tool to have around the house. Its lightweight design and powerful performance make it suitable for a variety of tasks, from draining hot tubs to managing minor floods. The pump’s construction and safety features ensure durability and reliability, which are essential for any tool.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Black & Decker BXWP61603 submersible water pump for homeowners looking for a versatile and efficient water removal solution. While it has a few limitations, its strengths far outweigh the drawbacks. The pump’s high discharge flow, lightweight design, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any household toolkit. Whether you’re a new hot tub owner or need a reliable pump for occasional flooding, this unit is worth considering.