A trash pump is designed to pump large amounts of water that contains hard and soft solids such as mud, leaves, twigs, sand, and sludge. Most devices are portable, heavy-duty centrifugal pumps that feature deeper impeller vanes and larger discharge openings than other pumps. Trash pump machines, which are capable of processing materials with suspended particulates that would clog other centrifugal pumps, can move hundreds or even thousands of gallons per minute. Trash pump machines do not grind up the materials that enter the pump.

The design of a trash pump usually involves a large discharge opening; deep impellers veins, and pump housing. Trash pumps are made from multiple materials including: aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. Most pumps come with roll cages.

Semi-trash pumps, a type of trash pump with a smaller opening, are not designed to handle large solids or high concentrations of solids. Consequently, regular trash pumps are better suited for applications that require rigorous pumping of solid-laden water or slurries. Some manufacturers do not separate trash pumps from semi-trash pumps, so a careful analysis of product capabilities is important when selecting devices.

A hose with a strainer is used with trash pumps so the hose doesn’t get clogged with items too big to pass through. The strainer sifts the debris that the pump can handle and leaves out the debris that’s too big.