Cooper relates that pumps 4 in. and larger are most often rented for short-term projects. "Pumps of all sizes can be high-maintenance items that require frequent cleaning and maintenance," he says. "Required pumping accessories such as suction hose, discharge hose or pipe, elbows and valves will vary by jobsite. For this reason, many contractors prefer to rent pumps rather than cover the costs of owning them, even if they use pumps regularly."

"The advantages of renting are plentiful, as long as the rental doesn't last longer than planned," adds Belli. "For one, construction crews are not responsible for repairs and maintenance on a rented pump. Contractors also don't have the costs of regular maintenance and repairs plus storage."

But there are benefits to buying as well. "If a contractor purchases a pump, he then has something in his arsenal of equipment that is capable of pumping wherever and whenever he needs it," says Belli. "If a contractor chose to purchase a versatile, multi-application pump, he would be even more capable of dewatering jobsites."

Match the pump to the job

To determine the best pump for the application, Joe Belli, Thompson Pumps, identifies these factors as required information: