Electric Submersible Trash Pumps for Construction Dewatering

What Are Electric Submersible Trash Pumps Used For?

Submersible trash pumps are chosen when water must be removed from below grade or confined spaces and contains debris that standard submersible pumps cannot handle.

Common applications include:

Construction site dewatering
Flooded basements, pits, and vaults
Utility and municipal maintenance
Industrial water removal
Excavations and foundation work

Because the pump operates underwater, priming is not required, and suction loss is eliminated.

Top Electric Submersible Trash Pumps

We carry industry-leading models from Multiquip and HCP, engineered for continuous duty and solid handling.

Multiquip ST2040T Electric Submersible Trash Pump

A compact 2/3 HP pump ideal for light to medium dewatering.

Flow: 79 GPM
Head: 40 ft
Solids Handling: 1"
Voltage: 115V
Best For: Residential and light commercial jobs.
View Multiquip ST2040T

Multiquip ST2010TCUL Electric Submersible Trash Pump

A high-capacity 1 HP unit built for tougher construction demands.

Flow: 95 GPM
Head: 45 ft
Solids Handling: 1"
Voltage: 115V
Best For: Construction sites requiring portability and power.
View Multiquip ST2010TCUL

HCP F-31UV Electric Submersible Trash Pump

A rugged 1 HP pump offering high flow at lower head pressures.

Flow: 145 GPM
Solids Handling: 1-3/16"
Discharge: 3"
Voltage: 120V / 240V
Best For: Moving large volumes of water quickly.
View HCP F-31UV

HCP F-21P Electric Submersible Trash Pump

Reliable and versatile, this 1 HP pump handles solids with ease.

Flow: 96 GPM
Solids Handling: 7/8"
Discharge: 2"
Voltage: 120V, 240V, 575V
Best For: Utility maintenance and varied industrial voltage needs.
View HCP F-21P

HCP FNK-32P Electric Submersible Trash Pump

A powerful 2 HP pump designed for demanding industrial applications.

Flow: High-volume capacity
Discharge: 3"
Construction: Heavy-duty cast iron
Best For: Large-scale excavations and industrial wastewater.
View HCP FNK-32P

HCP FNK-33P Electric Submersible Trash Pump

Our highest capacity option, this 3 HP pump is built for maximum performance.

Power: 3 HP
Discharge: 3"
Application: Heavy-duty continuous operation.
Best For: Municipal projects and severe flooding.
View HCP FNK-33P

How to Choose the Right Electric Submersible Trash Pump

Selecting the correct pump depends on the specific debris you encounter and the power available on your site.

Solids Handling: Standard dewatering pumps clog easily. Ensure the pump is rated for the size of solids you expect (e.g., our Multiquip models handle up to 1" solids).
Discharge Size & Flow: A 2-inch pump (like the Multiquip ST2040T) typically moves 70–90 GPM, suitable for most portable jobs. For heavy-duty industrial tasks, a 3-inch pump (like the HCP FNK-32P) can move over 200 GPM.
Power Supply: Check your site's voltage. We stock 115V models for standard outlets (great for residential/light commercial) and 208/230V/460V/575V models for industrial sites requiring higher horsepower.
Head Capability: If you are pumping out of a deep basement or manhole, ensure the pump's "Max Head" rating exceeds the vertical distance you need to lift the water.

Finding the Right Pump Type

Not sure if an electric submersible trash pump is right for you? Compare them with other common dewatering solutions:

Electric Submersible vs. Diaphragm Trash Pumps: Diaphragm pumps are excellent for thick sludge and slow seepage but typically have lower flow rates. Electric submersibles are faster and easier to set up for general dewatering.
Electric vs. Gas Engine Trash Pumps: Gas pumps offer high portability outdoors but cannot be used indoors or in confined spaces due to carbon monoxide emissions. Electric pumps are the safe choice for enclosed areas and offer continuous operation without refueling.

Brands We Carry

We stock industry-leading brands known for reliability in tough conditions.

Multiquip: Renowned for rugged construction and portability. Their ST-series is a staple in rental fleets and contractor trucks.
HCP: Specialists in submersible technology, offering industrial-grade pumps with high-head capabilities and versatile voltage options for municipal use.

Need help selecting the right electric submersible trash pump?

Cleanflow’s team is available to assist with specifications, voltage requirements, and application guidance to ensure you get the right equipment for the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What is the difference between a standard submersible pump and a trash pump?

The main difference is the impeller design. Standard pumps are meant for relatively clean water. Trash pumps feature vortex or non-clog impellers and wider volute openings that allow them to pass solids (like mud, leaves, and stones) without jamming.

Can these pumps run dry?

Most electric submersible pumps rely on the surrounding water for cooling. While many of our models feature thermal overload protection to prevent motor burnout, running them dry for extended periods can damage the seals and motor. Always monitor water levels or use a float switch.

Do I need a control box?

For standard 115V single-phase pumps (like the Multiquip ST2040T), you generally plug them directly into a power source. However, 3-phase industrial models or automatic setups using float switches may require a dedicated control box.

How do I maintain an electric trash pump?

Maintenance is generally low compared to gas pumps. Periodically check the impeller for wear or debris buildup, inspect the power cord for damage, and check the oil level in the seal chamber if applicable.

What size generator do I need to run these pumps?

Electric motors have a high starting amperage (inrush current). You typically need a generator that provides 2–3 times the running wattage of the pump to handle the startup load. Check the specific "Starting Amps" spec on the product page.

Can I use these for sewage?

Yes, many of these pumps, such as the HCP FNK-33P, are capable of handling sewage and wastewater. However, always verify the "Solids Handling" capacity to ensure it can pass the waste materials present.

Which brand is best for submersible pumps?

The best submersible pump brand depends on the application. Multiquip is ideal for construction dewatering, HCP excels in industrial use, and Tsurumi is trusted for heavy-duty municipal applications.

Electric Submersible Trash Pumps