Black & Decker 1/4 HP Sump Pump

Black & Decker's 1/4 HP Sump Pump, model BXWP62200, is a tool that aims to blend portability with power. Having had the opportunity to put this sump pump through its paces, I can offer a comprehensive look at its strengths and weaknesses.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Black & Decker sump pump is impressively lightweight and portable. Weighing in at just 7.1 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, thanks in part to the integral carry handle. The construction, made from fiberglass reinforced thermoplastic, feels robust and durable. This material choice promises resistance to rust and corrosion, which is a significant advantage for a tool that will spend its life submerged in water.

The pump includes a 10-foot power cord, which is quite generous and offers flexibility in positioning the pump without needing an extension cord. The overall dimensions of 8.5 inches in height, 6.4 inches in length, and 8.4 inches in width make it compact enough to fit into most sump pits easily.

Performance

In terms of performance, this sump pump does not disappoint. It boasts the capability to pump up to 2300 gallons per hour, which is more than adequate for most residential applications. This feature makes it particularly useful for tasks like draining pools, flooded basements, or even garden ponds. During my testing, I found that it lived up to its claims, managing to drain a moderate-sized pool efficiently and without any hiccups.

The pump's maximum vertical lift of 27 feet is another highlight. This means it can push water to a height of 27 feet, making it suitable for deeper pits or applications where the discharge point is significantly higher than the pump itself. This feature worked seamlessly during my tests, and the pump maintained a steady flow rate even at higher lifts.

Usability

One of the standout features of this sump pump is the tethered float switch. This automatic switch allows the pump to turn on and off based on the water level, which is a fantastic convenience. However, it also includes a piggy-back plug for manual operation, offering flexibility for different scenarios. The tethered float switch worked reliably during my testing, activating the pump as soon as the water level reached a certain point and shutting it off once the water was drained.

The pump also comes with an impeller and a removable intake screen designed to prevent clogging by handling solids up to 1/8 inch. This feature is particularly useful in preventing blockages and ensuring smooth operation. I found the intake screen easy to remove and clean, which is a plus for maintenance.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, the sump pump is not without its flaws. The float switch, while generally reliable, did fail in one of my extended tests. This issue could be a significant drawback for users who rely on the automatic functionality of the pump. Given the critical nature of a sump pump in preventing water damage, any failure in the float switch could lead to serious consequences.

Additionally, the customer service experience leaves much to be desired. In a situation where the float switch failed, getting in touch with customer service proved to be challenging. This lack of responsive support can be frustrating, especially when dealing with a product that serves such a vital function.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance of the Black & Decker sump pump is straightforward. The removable intake screen is easy to access and clean, which helps in keeping the pump running efficiently. The thermally protected motor is designed to prevent overheating, adding an extra layer of durability to the pump.

In terms of long-term durability, the fiberglass reinforced thermoplastic construction should hold up well against the elements. However, the reliability of the float switch remains a concern, and potential buyers should be aware of this issue.

Conclusion

The Black & Decker 1/4 HP Sump Pump, model BXWP62200, is a solid choice for those in need of a portable and powerful sump pump. Its ability to pump up to 2300 gallons per hour, coupled with a maximum vertical lift of 27 feet, makes it suitable for a variety of residential applications. The lightweight design and integral carry handle add to its convenience, while the removable intake screen and thermally protected motor contribute to its ease of maintenance and durability.

However, the reliability of the float switch and the lack of responsive customer service are notable drawbacks. If you need a sump pump for critical applications and require reliable automatic operation, you may want to consider these potential issues. For less critical applications or for those who are comfortable with some manual intervention, this sump pump offers excellent performance and value.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Black & Decker 1/4 HP Sump Pump? Yes, but with reservations. Its performance and ease of use are commendable, and it handles most tasks with ease. However, the float switch reliability and customer service concerns mean it might not be the best choice for everyone. If you’re looking for a reliable, portable sump pump and are willing to keep an eye on it during operation, this model is a strong contender. For those needing a more fail-safe solution, exploring other options might be prudent.