Craftsman 1/3 HP Auto Thermoplastic Submersible Sump Pump

The Craftsman 1/3 HP Auto Thermoplastic Submersible Sump Pump, model number CMXWUSD62348, is a solid choice for any homeowner looking to keep their basement dry. Having had the chance to use this sump pump in my own home, I found it to be both efficient and user-friendly. Let me walk you through its features and my personal experience with this pump.

Design and Construction

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Craftsman sump pump is its thermoplastic construction. The thermoplastic material used in this pump is not only durable but also resistant to corrosion. This is crucial for a device that will spend its entire life submerged in water. The plastic casing feels robust, and the handle is exceptionally sturdy, making it easy to move around without any worries about breaking or damaging the unit.

Performance

The Craftsman sump pump is powered by a 1/3 HP split capacitor, oil-cooled motor, which contributes to its efficient performance. This motor can pump up to 3500 gallons per hour (GPH) at zero feet, which is more than adequate for most residential applications. As the head height increases, the GPH decreases, but it still performs admirably at higher lifts. For instance, at 10 feet, it can pump 2600 GPH, and at 20 feet, it still manages to move 900 GPH.

Installation and Ease of Use

Installing the sump pump was a breeze. The pump comes with a 10-foot power cord, which provides flexibility when it comes to placement within your sump pit. This length is particularly useful if your power outlet is not in close proximity to the pit. The vertical float switch ensures automatic operation, so you don't have to worry about manually turning the pump on or off. This is a set-it-and-forget-it type of device, which is exactly what you want in a sump pump.

Practical Features

One feature I particularly appreciate is the pump’s ability to handle solids up to 3/8 inch in diameter. This is crucial for preventing clogs and ensuring smooth operation over time. The pump also has a maximum vertical lift of 24 feet, which allows it to handle a variety of sump pit depths effectively. The thermally protected motor is another excellent feature, as it prevents overheating, thereby extending the life of the pump.

Real-World Application

In practice, the pump performed exactly as expected. During a particularly rainy week, my basement sump pit filled up quickly, and the pump activated without any issues. It efficiently removed the water, and I didn't experience any flooding or water damage. The vertical float switch worked flawlessly, and I appreciated not having to keep an eye on the water level constantly.

One thing to keep in mind is that while the pump itself is highly efficient, ensuring that you have the right hose and fittings is crucial for optimal performance. In my experience, matching the discharge port size (1-1/2 inch) with the correct hose was straightforward, and once everything was in place, the pump operated seamlessly.

Durability

After using the pump for several months, it still functions as well as it did on day one. The thermoplastic construction has held up well, and there are no signs of wear or corrosion. The motor runs smoothly, and the pump has not shown any signs of overheating, thanks to its thermal protection feature.

Areas for Improvement

While my experience with the Craftsman sump pump has been largely positive, there are a few areas where the product could be improved. For one, the instruction manual could be more detailed, particularly for first-time users who may not be familiar with installing sump pumps. Additionally, while the pump handles solids up to 3/8 inch, larger debris can still pose a challenge, so it’s essential to ensure that your sump pit is relatively free of large debris to avoid clogging.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman 1/3 HP Auto Thermoplastic Submersible Sump Pump is a reliable and efficient tool for managing water in residential sump pits. Its durable construction, high pumping capacity, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a dependable sump pump.

Would I recommend this sump pump? Absolutely. Its performance, ease of installation, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone needing to keep their basement dry. The few minor drawbacks are easily manageable, especially considering the overall efficiency and reliability of the pump. With its three-year limited warranty, you also have peace of mind knowing that Craftsman stands behind their product. So if you're in the market for a submersible sump pump, the Craftsman CMXWUSD62348 is certainly worth considering.