06 · Pumps

Submersible Pump

Also called Utility pump · Simer pump · Bell pump · Sump pump

An electric pump that sits right in the water to drain flooded basements, pits, boats and low areas.

Electric (corded)

Sizes & models we rent

Simer utility pumpClean waterDirty-water submersibleWater with sand and silt
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Overview

The Simer pump is a robust submersible utility pump that drains basements, pits and other areas quickly and efficiently.

A submersible pump, sometimes called a bell pump, sits fully under the water it's removing. It's used for flooding — rising groundwater in cellars or basements, flooded boats or flooded areas.

Models differ mainly by the water they handle: clean-water pumps for rainwater; dirty-water or wastewater pumps for water carrying sand, soil and residue; and heavy-duty models for coarser solids.

On those models, the impeller at the bottom cuts solid particles up so they drain easily.

Catalogue specifications

  • Unit Specifications
  • Impeller Type Neoprene Rubber over Cast-Iron
  • Impeller Disc Size 2 in 51 mm
  • Total Head 40 ft 12.2 m
  • Water Capacity 79 gpm 299 lpm
  • Max. Solid Intake 1 in 25.4 mm
  • Electrical Specifications
  • Power 1 HP 0.75 kW
  • Phase Single
  • Voltage 115 V
  • Starting Amperage 34 A
  • Running Amperage 6.8 A
  • Cable Length 25 ft 7.6 m
  • Dimensions & Weights
  • Pump Diameter 10.3 in 26.7 mm
  • Overall Height 16.8 in 427 mm
  • Operating Weight 34 lb 15.4 kg

Best uses

  • Flooded basements and rooms
  • Pits, sumps and excavations
  • Boats and pool covers
  • Standing rainwater

Not suited for

  • Fuel or flammable liquids
  • Running dry

Troubleshooting

Motor hums but no water moves

Checks to try, in order

  1. Unplug the pump first.
  2. Clear the intake screen and check the impeller isn't jammed with debris.
  3. Check the discharge hose isn't kinked or blocked.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Pump keeps shutting off

Checks to try, in order

  1. The thermal overload trips when a pump runs dry. Unplug it, let it cool and make sure it's fully submerged.
  2. If a float switch is fitted, check it can move freely.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Trips the GFCI

Checks to try, in order

  1. Stop using it. A GFCI trip on a submersible pump can mean water in the cord or motor.

Never bypass the GFCI. Return the pump for testing.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Tripped GFCI or breaker
  • Lock-off button
  • Damaged cord
  • Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
  2. Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
  3. Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
  4. If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Circuit overloaded
  • Undersized extension cord
  • Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

  1. Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
  2. Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
  3. Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

  1. Stop and unplug the tool.
  2. Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
  3. Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

  • Always plug into a GFCI/RCD-protected outlet.
  • Unplug before touching the pump or reaching into the water.

For electric (corded)

  • Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
  • Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
  • Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.

Videos & links

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