First Impressions of Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump isn’t your typical tactical gadget; it’s a powerful tool designed to move massive amounts of water quickly. Made by Higdon Outdoors, this floating pump promises to be a game-changer for anyone dealing with flood control, pond management, or large-scale water transfer.
My need for this beast arose from constant flooding issues on my property bordering a creek. Cheaper pumps couldn’t keep up, and I was tired of the constant babysitting. Unboxing the Warthog, I was immediately struck by its robust construction, it clearly was built to take abuse. Compared to a standard gas-powered trash pump I’d been using, the Warthog looked far more self-sufficient and ready for prolonged use. Initial impressions were excitement mixed with a healthy respect for its size and power.
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump to the Test
First Use Experience
I deployed the Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump in a large pond on my property after a period of heavy rainfall. The pond had overflowed, threatening a nearby structure. Getting it set up was incredibly easy; simply placing it on the water, connecting the hose, and starting the engine. The Kohler engine roared to life with minimal effort. It immediately began drawing water. I was impressed with how quickly it started moving water, even with some debris floating nearby.
The Warthog handled the muddy water with ease, maintaining consistent pressure despite the conditions. It was simple to use, even for someone accustomed to more basic pumps. There were no unexpected hiccups, just raw, unrelenting water displacement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, the Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump has proven incredibly reliable. It starts easily every time, even after sitting idle for days. There’s minimal wear and tear, despite being exposed to mud, sunlight, and fluctuating temperatures.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse removes most debris, and the fuel ring is easy to detach and refill. This pump has vastly outperformed my previous experiences with smaller, less robust pumps. Its ability to operate unattended for extended periods is a huge advantage.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump
Specifications
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump boasts some impressive specifications that directly contribute to its performance. Its key features include:
- 850 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) Flow Rate: This high flow rate ensures rapid water displacement, making it ideal for flood control and large-scale water transfer.
- 5 HP Kohler Motor: The reliable Kohler engine provides ample power for sustained operation.
- Patented Removable 5-Gallon External Fuel Ring: This provides an industry-leading runtime of over 15 hours without refueling.
- Self-Priming Design: Eliminates the need for manual priming, simplifying startup.
- High Impact Material Construction: Ensures durability and resistance to damage from debris and rough handling.
- Metal-on-Metal Pump Components: These ensure long-term reliability and resistance to wear.
- Includes 100ft High-Pressure Hose, Clamps, and Quick Connect Coupler: This provides everything needed for immediate deployment.
These specifications matter because they translate directly to real-world performance and ease of use. The high GPM means faster results, the Kohler engine means reliability, and the self-priming design saves time and effort.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump excels at its primary job: moving water. Its high flow rate and long runtime make it incredibly effective for managing floods, draining ponds, and transferring water between locations. The pump operates smoothly, maintaining consistent pressure even when dealing with debris-filled water.
Its biggest strengths are its self-priming capability, long runtime, and ease of use. A potential weakness is its size and weight, making it less portable than smaller pumps, but still compact enough to be transported in a car trunk. The Warthog definitely exceeds expectations, providing a level of performance and reliability unmatched by other pumps I’ve used.
Design & Ergonomics
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump is built for durability and functionality, not aesthetics. The materials are rugged and the design is simple, prioritizing performance over sleekness. The unit feels solid and well-built, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
It is surprisingly user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a straightforward setup. While it isn’t lightweight, the integrated handles make it manageable for two people to lift and position.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump is expected to last for years with proper care. The metal-on-metal pump components and high-impact material are designed to withstand wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple: regular oil changes for the Kohler engine, cleaning of the pump intake, and occasional inspection of the hose. The removable fuel ring simplifies refueling and cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump comes with a 100ft high-pressure hose, clamps, and a quick-connect coupler. There aren’t many customization options for this particular pump, as it’s designed as a self-contained unit.
However, users could potentially add additional hose lengths or different nozzle types to suit specific applications. Compatibility with standard hose fittings ensures flexibility in setup.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump
Pros
- Extremely High Flow Rate (850 GPM): Moves massive amounts of water quickly.
- Long Runtime (15+ hours): Reduces the need for frequent refueling.
- Reliable Kohler Engine: Ensures consistent performance and easy starting.
- Self-Priming: Simplifies startup and operation.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
Cons
- High Price Point: A significant investment compared to smaller pumps.
- Size and Weight: Less portable than smaller pumps.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump?
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump is perfect for property owners dealing with frequent flooding. It’s also ideal for farmers managing irrigation, construction crews needing to dewater sites, and anyone requiring large-scale water transfer.
This pump might be overkill for those with small ponds or infrequent water-moving needs. Those individuals would likely be better served with a smaller, more portable option. A must-have accessory would be a debris screen for the intake to prevent clogging in extremely dirty water conditions.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump
The Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump is a powerhouse, plain and simple. Its high flow rate, long runtime, and reliable engine make it an invaluable tool for anyone dealing with significant water management challenges. While the price point is high, the performance and durability justify the investment for those who need it.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Warthog to anyone seeking a robust, reliable, and high-capacity floating pump. If you’re tired of struggling with inadequate pumps, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Don’t let floodwaters ruin your property; invest in the Higdon Outdoors Warthog 850 GPM Floating Pump and take control.