Dry-Pit Sump Pump

Overview

A dry-pit sump pump is a mechanically driven device designed for installation in a dry, non-submerged chamber adjacent to or above a wet well or sump. Unlike submersible pumps, all major working components of a dry-pit sump pump remain out of the liquid, making them particularly accessible for inspection, maintenance, and repair.  

These pumps are regularly selected for applications in water and wastewater treatment where robust solids handling, reliability, and ease of maintenance are critical. Their design helps reduce downtime as components can be serviced without the need for pump removal from the wet well, making them favored for demanding municipal, industrial, and stormwater management tasks.

Common Applications
  • Raw sewage or wastewater lift stations (preliminary chamber pumping)
  • Return and waste activated sludge pumping in treatment plants
  • Effluent transfer or discharge from clarifiers/settling basins
  • Stormwater pump stations (especially for flooded/dry pit setups)
  • Potable or process water pumping in water treatment facilities
Operator Experience
  • Daily: Inspect visually/audibly, check and log readings for flow and power
  • Monthly: Verify alignment, seal integrity, and lubrication systems
  • Annually: Perform teardown as needed, deep clean wet well, check all wear parts
  • Maintenance Activities: Lubricate bearings, inspect and clean/replace impeller, test backup systems
  • Safety/Inspection: Apply lockout/tagout, observe confined space protocols, watch for leaks, misalignment, vibration, or noises indicating clogs or bearing failures
Major Components
  • Casing/Housing: Directs flow and provides corrosion/abrasion resistance
  • Impeller: Handles solids, type selected for clog resistance and application needs
  • Motor/Drive: External motor provides power, selection based on power rating and protection type
  • Shaft and Bearings: Ensure energy transmission and support/loading
  • Seals and Gaskets: Prevent leaks and protect internals
  • Baseplate/Frame: Structural support for alignment and stability
Design Criteria
  • Flow Rate: 50–10,000 GPM
  • Total Dynamic Head: 10–120 feet (3–35 meters)
  • Solids Handling Capacity: 2–4 inch (50–100 mm) solids passage
  • Motor Power: 1–200+ HP (0.75–150 kW)
  • Operating Conditions: 32–150 °F (0–65 °C), with consideration for fluid pH, abrasives, and chemical content
Key Design Decisions
Specification Section
  • 22 14 29 – Sump Pumps
  • 43 21 39 – Dry-Pit Non-Clog Sewage Pumps
Submittal + Construction Considerations
Popular Manufacturers and Models
  • Flygt (Xylem): Model NS 3202 Dry Pit Pump
  • KSB: Amarex KRT (dry installation version)
  • Pentair Fairbanks Nijhuis: Model 5430 Dry-Pit Sewage Pump
Alternative Equipment
  • Submersible Sump Pump: Simpler installation, fits directly in wet wells, but harder to inspect/maintain and generally requires removal for servicing.  
  • Self-Priming Sewage Pump: Can be installed outside the wet well for easier maintenance, but limited by suction lift and solids handling in deeper/wider wells.  
  • Vertical Turbine Pump: Highly efficient for high-head or deep well installations, but involves increased installation complexity and often higher maintenance.
Real-World Tips
Connect with Local Representative
If you need help with sizing, system compatibility,  maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.

Connect with a Local Distributor

If you need help with sizing, system compatibility,  maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.