Black & Decker 1-3 HP Water Pump

Submersible pumps are invaluable for tasks like draining hot tubs, clearing flooded basements, and other water removal applications. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with the Black & Decker BXWP61303 1-3 HP Water Pump, and I must say, this lightweight, thermoplastic-built pump left quite an impression.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing to note about the Black & Decker water pump is its construction. Made from fiberglass reinforced thermoplastic, the pump is both lightweight and durable. Weighing in at just 6.5 pounds, it's easy to transport and store, especially with its foldable carrying handle. The compact dimensions (8.5 inches in height, 6.4 inches in length, and 8.4 inches in width) further add to its portability.

The pump also boasts a stainless steel motor shaft and fasteners, which I found reassuring for long-term durability. The removable intake screen is particularly useful for preventing clogging, a common issue with submersible pumps. This design feature ensures that the pump can handle up to 1/8 inch solids without any issues, making it versatile enough for various tasks.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Black & Decker pump is quite impressive. It can pump up to 2500 gallons per hour, which is a significant amount for a pump of its size and class. During my tests, the pump lived up to its claims, efficiently draining water within minutes. The maximum vertical lift of 28 feet is particularly noteworthy. While testing in my basement, which is approximately 11 feet deep, the pump had no issues lifting water to the required height.

One thing to note is that the pump requires a minimum of 1/2 inch of water to operate effectively. This is a common characteristic of submersible pumps, but it's something to keep in mind if you're dealing with very shallow water.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Black & Decker water pump is straightforward. It comes with a 1-1/4 inch FPT discharge, and a 3/4 inch garden hose adapter is included, making it versatile for different hose sizes. I appreciated the onboard cord storage area, which helps keep things organized. The 10-foot power cord provides ample length for most applications, and I found the cord wrap feature handy for storage.

The pump doesn’t come with an on/off switch, so you'll need to unplug it to stop it. While this might be a minor inconvenience, it’s a standard feature for many submersible pumps in this price range. Just make sure to monitor the pump to prevent it from running dry, as it requires water for lubrication.

Versatility

I tested the pump in various scenarios, including draining my spa, a small pool, and even a flooded area in my backyard due to heavy rains. In all these situations, the pump performed admirably. The ability to use different hose sizes thanks to the included adapter is a great feature, allowing for flexibility depending on the task at hand.

Additional Features

A few additional features that stood out include the thermally protected motor, which prevents overheating. This is a crucial safety feature, especially if you plan on using the pump for extended periods. The durable thermoplastic construction not only makes the pump lightweight but also ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use.

Areas for Improvement

While the pump is generally excellent, there are a few areas where it could be improved. An on/off switch would be a useful addition, providing more control over the operation without needing to unplug the unit. Additionally, a float switch to automatically turn off the pump when the water level is too low would be a welcome feature. This would help in preventing the pump from running dry and potentially damaging the motor.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Black & Decker BXWP61303 1-3 HP Water Pump is a reliable and efficient tool for a variety of water removal tasks. Its lightweight and durable construction, combined with impressive performance metrics, make it a great choice for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

I would recommend this pump for anyone who needs a reliable solution for draining water from pools, spas, basements, or other flooded areas. Its ease of use, portability, and robust performance make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of an on/off switch, these are easily manageable and do not significantly detract from the overall functionality of the pump.

In summary, if you're in the market for a dependable submersible water pump, the Black & Decker BXWP61303 is definitely worth considering. Its combination of performance, durability, and ease of use makes it a standout option in its category.