The 10 Best Centrifugal Pumps

The Honda WB20XT3A (about $499) can spit out an impressive 164 gallons per minute, which should be more than enough for any homeowner or small-scale farmer. The pull starter works reliably, usually firing up on the first try, saving you some effort (and cursing).

If you're trying to move more than clean water, the AMT Pumps 2874-95 (about $1137) is just what the doctor ordered. It has a clog-resistant impeller that makes short work of semi solids of up to 3/8-inch in diameter, so it's ideal for waste processing.

Overheating isn't much of a concern with the Multiquip SS233 (appx. $200). It boasts internal thermal overload protection, ensuring it won't push itself past its capabilities, and the thermoplastic casing prevents the elements from cooking it while it sits outside.

You only need to prime the Goulds Pump Irri-Gator (around $376) once; after that, it self-primes every time the water level rises above the suction pipe. Both the interior and exterior are coated with baked-on paint to prevent corrosion, regardless of how long it sits in liquid.

The Koshin SEH-40H (around $440) should be seriously considered by any volunteer firefighting department, as its 2.1 HP motor can unleash a powerful jet of high-pressure water. Despite its might, it only weighs in at 25 pounds, so it's easy to fetch when you're in a hurry.

If you ever have the misfortune of coming home to a flooded house, the Multiquip ST2047 (around $560) can bail you out in a hurry. It's an excellent tool for plumbers, contractors, and homeowners, but won't be of much help for any agricultural uses.

The stainless steel body and Viton mechanical seal and o-ring on the AMT Pumps 368A-98 (appx. $483) keep it safe from rust and corrosion, so feel free to leave it submerged for as long as necessary. It's well-suited for continuous use, such as in recirculating water.

The Rule General Purpose (appx. $209) won't blow you away with its pressure, but if you need to move quite a bit of liquid over a long stretch of time, it's more than up to the task. Just make sure that you keep it fully submerged, and be prepared to prime it frequently.

The impellers on the Goulds HSC20 (appx. $1626) are made using glass-filled thermoplastic, which is designed for increased efficiency. It can only move a relatively paltry 50 gallons per minute, though, so don't expect it to flood your fields very quickly.

Keep your pool looking sharp and crystal clear all year round with the Pentair DS2HF-192PL (about $450). It keeps the water circulating, helping to sweep away debris and mix chemicals. Hooking up the electrical components is easy, but the plumbing might be best left to the pros.