Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Transfer Pump Kit

As a DIY enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for tools that are both versatile and efficient. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Transfer Pump Kit, model RY20WP182K. This compact, battery-powered water transfer pump promises to make water management tasks easier and more convenient. After putting it through its paces, I have a lot to share about its performance, features, and overall usefulness.

First off, the Ryobi transfer pump is designed with a brushless motor, which is a significant upgrade from traditional motors. This design choice is meant to offer improved power, longer run times, and a longer tool life. The pump is capable of transferring up to 10 gallons per minute (GPM), making it a suitable choice for various water-moving tasks, from draining a flooded basement to emptying a rain barrel.

One of the standout features of this pump is its three-speed variable GPM settings. You can choose between low (2.3 GPM), medium (5.5 GPM), and high (10 GPM) settings, depending on your specific needs. This flexibility is excellent for tailoring the pump's performance to different tasks. For instance, the low setting is ideal for delicate operations like watering plants, while the high setting is perfect for more demanding jobs like draining a pool.

The pump also boasts a 3-mode automatic shutdown timer, which can be set for 5, 10, or 15 minutes. This feature is particularly useful when you need to leave the pump unattended, as it will automatically shut off after the set time, preventing potential overflows or dry runs. The auto-shutdown feature also helps in conserving battery life, which brings me to one of the most critical aspects of this tool: its battery performance.

The kit comes with a 2 Ah battery, which, in my experience, is somewhat undersized for this tool. During my tests, the battery lasted for about 10-15 minutes on the high setting, which is not sufficient for extended tasks. However, switching to a 4 Ah or even a 9 Ah battery significantly improved the run time, making the pump much more practical for longer jobs. If you're planning on using this pump for extended periods, I highly recommend investing in a higher-capacity battery.

The pump's build quality is another area where Ryobi has done well. The metal housing and water-resistant battery enclosure give it a robust feel, and the mountable base plate adds to its stability and ease of storage. The included intake filter is a nice touch, as it helps with low water drainage and prevents debris from clogging the pump.

In terms of usability, the Ryobi transfer pump is straightforward to set up and operate. The battery compartment is water-sealed, which is crucial for a tool that will often be used in wet conditions. Priming the pump is a simple process: you just need to fill the suction port with water before starting. The pump's relatively light weight makes it easy to maneuver, and the handle is comfortable to grip.

However, the tool is not without its drawbacks. One issue I encountered was with the vinyl intake hose, which has a tendency to recoil onto itself, making it somewhat challenging to position correctly in the water. This can be particularly annoying when you're trying to drain a low-lying area. I found that replacing the vinyl hose with a more rigid one solved this problem.

Another minor gripe is the noise level. The pump is quite loud, especially when running at the high setting. While this is not a deal-breaker, it can be somewhat disruptive if you're using the pump in a residential area or late at night.

Durability is another aspect worth mentioning. While the pump is generally well-built, some users have reported issues with leaks developing over time. I haven't experienced this myself, but it's something to keep an eye on, especially if you're using the pump frequently.

Despite these minor issues, the Ryobi transfer pump performs admirably in most scenarios. Whether you're dealing with a flooded basement, emptying a rain barrel, or cleaning out a pool, this pump can handle the task with ease. The selectable speed settings and automatic shutdown timer add to its versatility, making it a valuable addition to any DIYer's toolkit.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP Transfer Pump Kit, but with a few caveats. If you're planning on using it for extended periods, you'll need to invest in higher-capacity batteries. Additionally, consider replacing the vinyl intake hose for better usability. Despite these minor drawbacks, the pump's performance, build quality, and useful features make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently needs to move water. Its portability and ease of use are significant advantages, especially for those who already own other Ryobi ONE+ tools and batteries.