Ridgid Stainless Steel Dual Suction Sump Pump

When I first got my hands on the Ridgid Stainless Steel Dual Suction Sump Pump (model 1000RSDS), I was optimistic about its potential. The build quality is immediately noticeable; the stainless steel housing and cast iron base give it a robust and durable feel that many other sump pumps lack. The 1 HP motor promises a powerful performance, capable of moving up to 5,550 gallons per hour at a 10-foot lift. These initial impressions were promising, but I was eager to see how it would perform in a real-world scenario.

Installation and Setup

Installing the Ridgid sump pump was relatively straightforward. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and all necessary components were included in the package. The pump's 1-1/2" discharge NPT and PVC fitting made it compatible with my existing setup, which saved me time and effort. The 8 3/4 ft. cord length was adequate for reaching my power outlet without needing an extension. However, I did notice that the pump requires a dedicated power line, which might be an inconvenience for some users.

The Wi-Fi setup was a bit more complicated than I had anticipated. Connecting the pump to my home network took several attempts, and I had to resort to using two phones to scan the barcode. Once connected, the app provided useful insights into the pump's performance, including water levels and cycle counts. The app is available for both iOS and Android, but I did encounter some issues with the Android version, which could be a drawback for some users.

Performance

Once set up, the pump performed admirably. The dual suction design effectively removed debris, reducing the risk of clogging. The air switch, in place of the usual mechanical float, worked well in my crowded sump pit. This feature is particularly useful as it eliminates the common issue of mechanical floats getting stuck.

The pump is impressively quiet for its power. During heavy rainfall, it kicked in without any noticeable noise, which was a pleasant surprise. The pump's ability to handle up to 5,550 gallons per hour at a 10-foot lift was more than sufficient for my needs. The app's real-time monitoring allowed me to keep an eye on the pump's performance from the comfort of my living room, providing peace of mind during storms.

Durability and Maintenance

One area where the Ridgid sump pump fell short was durability. After about 18 months of usage, I noticed significant corrosion on the cast iron base. This was disappointing, especially given the pump's premium price. Regular maintenance was required to keep the inlet screen clear of debris, which involved cleaning it with a wire brush every few months. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it does add to the overall maintenance burden.

Smart Features

The smart features of this pump are a double-edged sword. On one hand, the ability to monitor the pump remotely via the app is a fantastic feature that adds a layer of security. On the other hand, the app can be finicky, particularly with Android devices. Additionally, the air switch, while innovative, can be problematic. If the power goes out, the pump resets its water level, which could potentially lead to flooding if not monitored closely.

Generator Compatibility

A significant drawback of this pump is its incompatibility with generators. This is a critical issue for anyone who relies on a generator during power outages. The pump's warning alarms go off when connected to a generator, which can be both frustrating and concerning. This limitation severely undermines the pump's reliability during emergencies, which is when you need it the most.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid Stainless Steel Dual Suction Sump Pump has a lot to offer in terms of performance and smart features. Its powerful motor, dual suction design, and quiet operation make it a strong contender in the sump pump market. The ability to monitor the pump remotely via an app is a modern touch that provides peace of mind. However, the pump is not without its flaws. The issues with generator compatibility, app connectivity, and long-term durability are significant concerns.

Would I recommend this sump pump? It depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for a powerful, quiet pump with smart features and don't rely on a generator, this pump could be an excellent choice. The ease of installation and the robust build quality are definite pluses. However, if you need a pump that is generator-compatible or require a maintenance-free option, you might want to consider other alternatives.

In summary, the Ridgid Stainless Steel Dual Suction Sump Pump is a high-performance tool with some innovative features, but it comes with caveats that potential buyers should carefully consider.