WAYNE CDU790 1/3 HP Submersible Sump Pump - Heavy Duty Basement Pump

In this review of the WAYNE CDU790, the bottom line is straightforward: this 1/3 HP submersible sump pump is for homeowners who need a reliable, quiet unit that moves a lot of water without complicated installation. The CDU790 stands out because of its top suction and cast iron construction, which combine for strong flow and resistance to clogging. Our review finds it particularly useful for typical basements and sump pits 11 in or larger, offering straightforward setup and durable components that make it a practical long-term choice.

Key Features

• High flow capacity: Pumps up to 4,600 GPH at 0 ft to handle heavy runoff from rain or melting snow and keep basements dry.
• Durable construction: Cast iron volute and epoxy-coated steel motor housing resist corrosion and provide long service life in demanding sump applications.
• Top suction design: Eliminates air lock and minimizes clogging by drawing water from the top of the pump, reducing maintenance from debris at the pit bottom.
• Integrated vertical float switch: A vertical float tested to 1 million cycles offers reliable automatic operation and improved longevity compared with common competitors.
• Easy installation: Fits 11 in or larger sump basins and installs quickly without drilling a weep hole or complex plumbing changes.
• Code-ready discharge: 1-1/2 NPT discharge meets typical building code requirements for residential sump systems.

Who It's For

The WAYNE CDU790 is best for homeowners with standard residential basins who want a heavy duty, quietly operating pump that handles high water flow. It suits those who value American assembly and a simple installation process that can be completed with basic tools in under an hour.

Homeowners with atypical sump pits smaller than 11 in, or those needing a pump rated for outdoor or permanent submersion beyond sump use, should look elsewhere. Also, if weight and absolute corrosion immunity are top priorities, a full stainless steel body pump may be preferred over a cast iron design.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong water handling with up to 4,600 GPH capacity for heavy water events.
• Robust cast iron and epoxy-coated housing for long-term durability and quiet operation.
• Top suction reduces clogging and air lock for more reliable performance in debris-prone pits.
• Vertical float switch rated to 1 million cycles for dependable automatic cycling.

Cons

• Designed for indoor sump use only, so it is not suitable for outdoor pumping or non-sump applications.
• Some customers report mixed long-term durability experiences, so occasional failures are possible despite overall solid build quality.

Specifications

Model	CDU790
Motor	1/3 HP
Max Flow	Up to 4,600 GPH at 0 ft
Discharge	1-1/2 NPT
Sump Basin Size	Designed for 11 in or larger
Housing	Cast iron volute with epoxy-coated steel motor housing
Switch	Integrated vertical float, tested to 1,000,000 cycles

Our Verdict

The WAYNE CDU790 is a practical, value-oriented choice for homeowners who need a quiet, heavy duty basement sump pump that handles high flow and resists common clogging issues. Its cast iron construction, top suction design, and a long-life vertical float make it a smart buy for typical residential sump pits 11 in or larger, offering performance and reliability for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this pump suitable for small 10 in sump basins?
It is designed for 11 in or larger basins, so a 10 in basin may not accommodate the unit safely or allow proper top suction operation.

Can this pump be used outdoors or in continuous submerged conditions?
No, the CDU790 is specified for indoor sump use only and is intended for typical basement sump installations.

How noisy is the pump in operation?
The cast iron housing and design provide quiet operation compared with many alternatives; customers commonly note it runs quietly when cycling.