Little Giant 5-MSP Submersible Utility Pump - Compact 1200 GPH

Our review of the Little Giant 5-MSP finds it best suited for homeowners and light commercial users who need a compact, reliable submersible pump for water transfer and flood cleanup. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of solid pumping power and portability: the 1/6 HP motor delivers up to 1200 GPH while the unit remains light and easy to position thanks to a built-in handle and a 25-ft power cord. This review focuses on real-world usefulness rather than marketing claims, and highlights where the 5-MSP performs well and where buyers should temper expectations.

Key Features

• Submersible design: The pump is built for submerged operation only, making it suitable for sump, pool, and floodwater removal where continuous immersion is possible.
• Power and flow: With a 1/6 HP motor and up to 1200 GPH capacity, it moves water quickly for small to medium tasks without excessive electricity draw.
• Durable construction: Epoxy coated die-cast aluminum housing and a permanently lubricated shaded pole motor offer corrosion resistance and low maintenance.
• Versatile discharge: Includes a 1-inch FNPT discharge and a 3/4-in garden hose adapter so it adapts to common hoses and fittings for easy hookup.
• Removable screen: A protective screen guards the impeller and can be removed when finer solids removal is required, allowing suction down to smaller depths.

Who It's For

The Little Giant 5-MSP is ideal for homeowners dealing with occasional flooding, pool or hot tub draining, and hobby hydroponics where a compact, submersible transfer pump is needed. Small commercial or light industrial users who require a portable pump for recirculation or temporary dewatering jobs will also find the 1200 GPH output useful.

It is not intended for dry-mounted continuous pumping or heavy industrial slurry work; users needing automated float-switch operation, higher head for long vertical lifts, or larger debris handling should consider other models or add compatible accessories. The 5-MSP is best for straightforward, submersible water transfer tasks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact and portable, weighing about 8.25 lbs., so it is easy to position and store.
• Good flow for its size, achieving up to 1200 GPH with a 1/6 HP motor while drawing modest current.
• Sturdy epoxy coated aluminum housing and removable screen help protect the impeller and extend service life.

Cons

• Designed for submersible use only, so it cannot be used as a dry-mounted utility pump without modifications.
• Customer experience on long-term durability is mixed, with some reporting shorter lifespans in heavy or continuous use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Little Giant 5-MSP is a practical, value-oriented choice for homeowners and light commercial users who need a portable submersible pump for water transfer and emergency draining. Its 1200 GPH capacity, long 25-ft cord, and adaptable fittings make it versatile for many tasks, though those needing continuous heavy-duty operation or dry-mount use should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the pump run dry?
No. The 5-MSP is designed for submersible use only and should not be operated dry to avoid motor damage.

How low will it pump?
With the screen installed it removes water down to about 3/8-in; without the screen it can reach approximately 1/8-in.

Does it include a hose adapter?
Yes. The pump includes a 3/4-in garden hose adapter and a 1-in FNPT discharge fitting for standard connections.