Drill Pumps

About Drill Pumps

Drill pumps are clever, cost-effective attachments that convert your standard corded or cordless drill into a practical water transfer pump. Perfect for tradespeople, gardeners, and DIY enthusiasts alike, these portable pumping solutions eliminate the need for expensive dedicated electric pumps when dealing with occasional water transfer tasks. Whether you're draining a flooded basement, emptying a paddling pool, transferring water from a water butt, or clearing standing water from building sites, a drill-powered pump offers remarkable convenience and practicality.

The selection available at Tooled-Up.com includes models from trusted brands such as Draper, Sealey, Faithfull, and Stanley, each designed to attach securely to the chuck of your drill. These pumps typically feature durable plastic or metal impellers housed within robust casings, with inlet and outlet hoses for efficient water transfer. Most models are suitable for use with standard 240v corded drills or 18V cordless drills, making them incredibly versatile additions to any tool kit.

From lightweight standard-duty models ideal for garden applications to heavy-duty versions capable of handling more demanding site work, drill pumps provide flow rates that can match many dedicated pumps whilst remaining highly portable and easy to store. They're particularly valuable for tradespeople who already carry drills on every job, eliminating the need to transport additional bulky equipment.

Jargon Buster

• Flow Rate (Litres per Minute): The volume of water the pump can transfer in one minute, typically ranging from 1,200 to 2,600 litres per hour for drill-powered models. Higher flow rates mean faster water transfer but may require more powerful drills.
• Impeller: The rotating component inside the pump housing that creates the pumping action. Usually made from durable plastic, acetal copolymer, or brass, the impeller design determines the pump's efficiency and longevity.
• Suction Depth: The maximum vertical distance the pump can draw water upwards from its source. Most drill pumps operate effectively with suction depths up to 5 metres, though performance decreases with greater depth.
• Discharge Head: The maximum height to which the pump can push water vertically. This specification is crucial when pumping water upwards from basements or lower ground levels, with many models achieving 10-15 metres.
• Chuck Size: The diameter of the pump's drive shaft that fits into your drill chuck, typically 8mm or 10mm. Ensure compatibility with your drill's chuck capacity before purchasing.
• Self-Priming: The pump's ability to create suction and begin pumping without being pre-filled with water. Some drill pumps require manual priming whilst others start automatically once rotation begins.

Who Uses Drill Pumps?

• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: For draining down systems, emptying tanks, and clearing flooded areas during emergency callouts
• Builders and General Contractors: Essential for removing standing water from foundations, trenches, and flooded building sites
• Landscapers and Groundworkers: Ideal for pond maintenance, water feature installation, and transferring water for irrigation purposes
• Property Maintenance Professionals: Perfect for dealing with flood damage, blocked drain overflow, and basement water clearance
• DIY Enthusiasts and Homeowners: Excellent for garden maintenance, emptying hot tubs, draining paddling pools, and seasonal water management tasks
• Farmers and Agricultural Workers: Useful for transferring water between troughs, tanks, and irrigation systems
• Boat Owners and Marine Maintenance: Handy for bilge pumping and winterisation tasks
• Emergency Services and Facilities Managers: Valuable for rapid response to flooding incidents and water damage situations

How to Choose the Right Drill Pumps

Flow Rate Requirements: Consider the volume of water you typically need to move and the time constraints involved. Standard drill pumps offer flow rates between 20-40 litres per minute, whilst heavy-duty models can achieve higher rates. For occasional garden use, basic models suffice, but site work demands more robust specifications.

Drill Compatibility: Ensure your existing drill has sufficient power to drive the pump effectively. Most drill pumps require a minimum of 400-500W for corded drills or 18V for cordless models. Check the chuck size compatibility – typically 8mm or 10mm shafts – and verify your drill can maintain consistent speeds under load. The Tooled-Up range includes pumps suitable for popular brands like Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee drills.

Build Quality and Materials: Heavy-duty models feature stainless steel internal parts and reinforced housings for extended lifespan and resistance to debris. For clean water applications, plastic or acetal copolymer impellers prove adequate, but if pumping water containing grit or sediment, invest in more durable construction from brands like Sealey or Draper.

Hose Connections and Length: Standard models typically accept hoses between 16mm and 25mm diameter. Consider whether hoses are included or need purchasing separately. Longer hoses provide greater flexibility but may reduce flow rate slightly.

Portability and Storage: One key advantage of drill pumps is their compact size. Models that disassemble easily or include storage cases offer better value for mobile tradespeople who need to maximise van space.

Water Type Suitability: Most drill pumps handle clean or slightly dirty water effectively, but they're not designed for highly contaminated water, chemicals, or water containing large debris. Always check the manufacturer's specifications regarding maximum particle size and water cleanliness.

Popular Accessories

• Extension Hoses: Additional inlet and outlet hoses in various lengths for reaching awkward locations or transferring water over greater distances
• Hose Clips and Connectors: Quality jubilee clips and quick-release connectors ensure secure, leak-free connections under pressure
• Strainer Filters: Inlet filters prevent debris entering the pump, protecting the impeller and extending service life
• Cordless Drills: Quality 18V models from Makita, DeWalt, or Milwaukee provide the reliable power needed for efficient pumping without mains electricity
• Spare Batteries: Essential for cordless drill users tackling extended pumping tasks away from power sources
• Pump Storage Cases: Dedicated storage solutions keep your drill pump, hoses, and accessories organised and protected during transport
• Spare Vanes and Washers: Replacement parts for maintaining pump performance and extending operational life

Safety Information

Electrical Safety: When using corded drills with pumps, ensure all electrical connections comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations. Always use 240v RCD protection, particularly when working outdoors or in wet conditions. Never operate electrical equipment whilst standing in water, and keep all electrical components away from the pumping area.

Water Quality Awareness: Never use drill pumps with contaminated water, sewage, or hazardous liquids. These pumps are designed exclusively for clean or slightly dirty water applications. If dealing with potentially contaminated water on site, consult HSE guidelines and use appropriate specialist equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment: Wear appropriate waterproof footwear and gloves when operating drill pumps. Safety glasses protect against splashing, particularly important when priming pumps or working with pressurised hoses.

Equipment Inspection: Before each use, inspect hoses for splits or perishing, check all connections are secure, and ensure the pump impeller rotates freely. Never operate a damaged pump, as this may cause injury or equipment failure.

Drill Operation: Ensure the pump is securely fastened in the drill chuck before starting. Begin at low speeds to prime the pump, then gradually increase to optimal operating speed (typically 2000-3000 rpm). Excessive speed can damage the impeller, whilst insufficient speed reduces efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my cordless drill with a drill pump?

Yes, most modern 18V cordless drills from brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee provide sufficient power for drill pumps. However, pumping is battery-intensive, so keep spare batteries charged for extended tasks. Brushless motor drills offer better efficiency and longer runtime when powering pumps, typically providing 20-40 minutes of pumping per battery.

What's the maximum height a drill pump can lift water?

Most drill pumps can lift water (discharge head) between 10-15 metres vertically, though flow rate decreases with height. Suction depth – drawing water up from below – is typically limited to around 5 metres. Performance varies by model and drill power, so check specifications for your specific requirements.

Can drill pumps handle dirty water or debris?

Standard drill pumps cope with slightly dirty water containing small particles, but they're not designed for heavily contaminated water or debris larger than 3-5mm. For water containing significant debris, use an inlet strainer or consider a dedicated dirty water pump. Never attempt to pump water containing stones, twigs, or substantial sediment.

How long can I run a drill pump continuously?

Continuous running time depends on your drill's capabilities rather than the pump itself. Corded 240v drills can run indefinitely with periodic cooling breaks, whilst cordless drills are limited by battery capacity. Allow your drill to cool periodically to prevent overheating, particularly during extended pumping sessions or when using lower-powered drills.

Do I need any special maintenance for drill pumps?

After each use, flush clean water through the pump to remove any sediment or debris. Store the pump dry and protected from freezing temperatures, as trapped water can damage internal components. Periodically check the impeller for wear and ensure all seals remain watertight. Quality models from Draper, Sealey, or Faithfull require minimal maintenance but benefit from annual inspection if used regularly. Replacement vanes and washers are typically available for extended service life.