Little Giant 1-A 170 GPH Submersible Pump - Durable Recirculation

In this review the Little Giant 1-A 170 GPH submersible pump earns its keep for anyone who needs reliable, small-scale liquid transfer. The bottom line is simple: this pump is for users who want a compact, long-lasting unit for fountain recirculation, water displays, air conditioners or occasional basin draining, because its oil-filled motor and epoxy-coated housing deliver toughness in continuous or intermittent use.

Key Features

• Pumping capacity: 170 GPH at 1 ft lift provides steady flow for small fountains and shallow basins without oversizing the installation.
• Compact, submersible design: The small footprint and screened inlet let it nest inside statuary, troughs or reservoirs while protecting the impeller from debris.
• Durable construction: Epoxy-coated die-cast aluminum housing and an oil-filled motor housing resist corrosion and extend life in wet environments.
• Practical specifications: 1/4-in MNPT discharge and a 6-ft cord give straightforward plumbing and placement options for most outdoor and indoor installs.
• Thermal protection and safety listings: Thermally protected motor and CSA listing for the US and Canada reduce risk during extended operation.

Who It's For

The Little Giant 1-A is best for homeowners, landscapers or small commercial operators who need a dependable pump for statuary fountains, water displays, hydroponic setups or simple condensate drainage. Its modest 170 GPH capacity and 7-ft maximum lift match applications where flow needs are steady but not high-volume.

Those who need high head pressure, long continuous high-temperature duty above 120 degrees F, or very high flow rates should look at larger, more powerful models; this unit is engineered as a small, submersible transfer pump rather than an industrial high-head solution.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable pumping capacity for fountains and basin drainage with reported long service life in real use.
• Rugged build quality with epoxy-coated housing and oil-filled motor for durability in submerged conditions.
• Simple connections and placement thanks to the 1/4-in discharge and 6-ft cord.

Cons

• Modest flow and maximum lift limit it to small-scale jobs; not suited for high head or heavy industrial transfer.
• Some users note it is not the fastest option for rapid removal of large water volumes compared with higher-capacity pumps.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Little Giant 1-A is a practical, well-built small submersible pump for fountains, condensate drains and modest water-transfer tasks; its durable construction and oil-filled motor deliver long service life and solid value for those who do not need high head or large flow rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this pump run continuously?
Yes, it is designed for continuous or intermittent use and includes thermal protection for the motor.

What size plumbing fits the outlet?
The discharge is a 1/4-in MNPT connection for straightforward plumbing or adapters.

How hot can the liquid be?
It is rated for intermittent liquid temperatures up to 120 degrees F, so avoid sustained higher temperatures.