Davey D23A/B Submersible Sump Pump - Float Switch, 22.5m Head, 304 SS NZ

Automatic sump drainage and garden irrigation — compact, corrosion resistant, and built to run reliably in wet conditions.

The Davey D23A/B is a submersible drainage pump fitted with a float switch for fully automatic operation. It suits sump emptying, lawn and garden irrigation, and low-head drainage applications. The pump sits submerged in the water it's draining — when the water level rises, the float switch starts the pump automatically, and it stops again once the level drops to the safe operating point.

The D23A/B uses a multi-stage 3-impeller centrifugal design for low-flow high-head performance, with 304 stainless steel shaft, motor shell, and fasteners throughout. Double mechanical seals — one in oil bath on the motor, one on the pump — provide a long service life.

Suited to clean water of neutral pH containing up to 1% small solids. Not for use with abrasive materials — sand and grit will accelerate wear.

Key specs at a glance

• Max flow: 52 L/min | Max head: 22.5m
• Float switch fitted — fully automatic operation
• Max submergence: 7m
• Outlet: 1" BSP female
• Input power: 0.38kW | Output: 0.2kW
• 304 stainless steel shaft, motor shell, and fasteners
• Double mechanical seals
• IP X8 rated — submersible
• 10m HO7RNF oil-resistant power lead, 3-pin plug
• Suitable fluid: clean water, neutral pH, up to 1% small solids (min 1mm O.D.)
• 2-year warranty

Why choose the D23A/B

• Float switch automates operation — no manual switching required
• Multi-stage 3-impeller design handles up to 22.5m of head — suitable for pumping to elevated discharge points
• Double mechanical seal — one in oil bath on the motor, one on the pump — for superior reliability
• 304 stainless steel shaft, motor shell, and fasteners for long service life in wet conditions
• Built-in thermal overload protects the motor from blockage or voltage supply problems
• 10m HO7RNF oil-resistant lead — longer cable reach, designed for use in dirty water conditions
• ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified manufacturer
• 2-year warranty

How it works

The pump sits on the floor of the sump or pit, fully submerged. As the water level rises, the float switch lifts with it. At the trigger point, the pump starts automatically, drawing water in through the bottom strainer and pushing it up through the 1" outlet to the discharge point. Once the level drops to the pump's safe operating level, the float falls and the pump shuts off. No manual intervention required.

The three-stage centrifugal impeller design provides the head pressure needed to push water up to 22.5 metres — suitable for discharging to garden drains, irrigation lines, or above-ground outlets at height.

Operating limits and suitable fluids

This pump is designed for clean water of neutral pH containing up to 1% small solids (minimum soft solid size: 1mm O.D.). Some wear should be expected if pumping hard solids in suspension.

Do not use with abrasive materials — sand and grit will accelerate wear and shorten pump life. Do not use for recirculating or filtering swimming pools or spas. Not approved for installations where people are in the water while the pump is operating.

Full technical specifications

What's in the box

• Davey D23A/B submersible sump pump
• 10m HO7RNF power lead with 3-pin NZ plug

Frequently asked questions

What does the float switch do?

The float switch automates the pump's operation. As the water level rises in the sump or pit, the float lifts with it. When it reaches the trigger point, the pump switches on and starts draining the water. Once the level drops far enough, the float falls and the pump switches off automatically. No manual switching required.

How deep can the pump be submerged?

The D23A/B can be submerged to a maximum of 7 metres. The IP X8 rating confirms it is designed for permanent submersion.

What does IP X8 mean?

The IP X8 rating means the pump is designed for continuous operation while fully submerged — not just splash-resistant. The "X" indicates no specific dust ingress rating has been assigned, and the "8" indicates it is rated for permanent submersion beyond 1 metre.

What size discharge pipe does it need?

The outlet is 1" BSP female. Pair with a 1" male BSP fitting to connect to your discharge pipework.

Can it handle dirty water or solids?

The D23A/B is designed for clean water of neutral pH. It can handle water containing up to 1% small solids with a minimum soft solid size of 1mm O.D. Do not pump abrasive materials such as sand or grit — these will accelerate wear and shorten pump life.

Can I use it in my garden for irrigation?

Yes. The D23A/B is suited to garden and lawn irrigation at low to medium heads. With a maximum head of 22.5m, it can push water to elevated outlets or across longer runs.

Can I install it myself?

Lowering the pump into a sump and connecting to discharge pipework is straightforward for a confident DIY installer. Make sure there is enough room for the float switch to rise and fall freely — if the float is restricted, the pump may not operate correctly. For installations involving electrical work, get a professional involved. If you're unsure, get in touch and we'll help.

What maintenance does it need?

Inspect the pump every 6 months. Keep it clean — lint, hair, and fibrous material can bind around the shaft. Always position and retrieve the pump using a rope — never lift or lower it by the power lead as this can damage the cable entry seals.

What warranty applies?

The Davey D23A/B carries a 2-year warranty.