M12™ Milwaukee Stick Pump Guide

When it comes to draining water from tight spaces—such as basements, meter boxes, trenches, or water heaters—the Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump offers a portable, cordless solution that punches well above its weight. 

Designed for plumbers, contractors, and maintenance pros, this tool provides fast, clean water transfer without the hassle of cords, bulky pumps, or siphoning.

Benefits of Milwaukee Stick Transfer Pumps

Looking for a fast, portable solution to clear out water from tight spaces? 

The Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump delivers cordless convenience, strong flow rates, and easy handling—making it the go-to tool for plumbers, landscapers, and anyone dealing with small to midsize water removal tasks. Let’s break down the benefits.

1. Compact, Cordless, and Capable

The M12 Stick Transfer Pump runs on Milwaukee’s 12-volt battery system, delivering up to 9 gallons per minute with a maximum lift height of 15 feet. That means you can transfer water quickly and efficiently, without relying on a power outlet or dragging around a gas-powered pump.

Weighing just over 4 pounds, the tool is remarkably easy to handle, especially in cramped or awkward spaces. The stick design features a 36-inch submersible barrel, allowing you to reach into sump pits, crawlspaces, or valve boxes without needing to bend or contort. For many users, it’s an ergonomic upgrade over larger submersible pumps.

2. Built-In Filter Protection

One of the standout features is the HydroPass 360° filter system. Positioned at the intake, this filter helps prevent clogging by keeping out debris and sediment. Since it’s accessible and easy to clean, you don’t lose precious time dealing with gunked-up components. The design keeps the pump performing consistently, even when you’re drawing water from less-than-ideal conditions.

3. Real-World Performance

In practical terms, this pump is ideal for clean or lightly dirty water. Whether you’re removing standing water after a storm or flushing a water heater, it offers reliable output and convenience. With a full M12 XC 4.0 Ah (amp-hour) battery, you can expect to pump around 275 gallons—enough for most mid-sized tasks.

And that’s 275 gallons on a single charge.

The pump includes a standard ¾-inch garden hose connection at the outlet, so setup is fast and familiar. Just attach a garden hose, submerge the intake barrel, and pull the trigger. The pump primes itself in seconds and is self-regulating, so it won’t overheat or run dry unnecessarily.

Use Cases and Limitations of Stick Transfer Pumps

This tool excels in residential and light commercial applications. HVAC techs, landscapers, plumbers, and utility workers will appreciate the speed and control it offers for draining pits, valve boxes, water heaters, or small pools. It’s also handy for flood cleanup when time and mobility are key.

However, it’s not designed for high-volume pumping or thick sludge. For jobs that require moving hundreds of gallons quickly or dealing with heavy debris, a larger transfer pump or trash pump may still be necessary. 

Note: Stick transfer pumps should never be used with flammable or corrosive liquids; this is strictly a water transfer tool.

Use Milwaukee Stick Pumps for DIY Water Removal

The Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump is a practical, no-nonsense solution for pros who need portability and performance. It fills the gap between manual siphoning and oversized pumps, offering cordless freedom, impressive runtime, and ease of use in a compact form. 

For anyone already in the M12 tool lineup—or looking for a clean, quick water-moving solution—it’s a worthy addition to the truck or toolbox.

FAQs for Milwaukee Stick Pumps

What is a stick transfer pump used for?

A stick transfer pump is used to remove water from tight or hard-to-reach areas such as basements, trenches, crawlspaces, or water heater tanks. It’s ideal for light-duty water transfer jobs where portability and precision are key.

Do I need to prime a Milwaukee stick transfer pump?

No, the Milwaukee M12 Stick Transfer Pump is self-priming. Once submerged in water and turned on, it automatically starts pumping without any manual priming required.

What is the difference between a utility pump and a transfer pump?

A utility pump is a broad category used for moving water in various applications, often including trash or debris. A transfer pump is more specialized, designed specifically for moving clean or lightly dirty water from one location to another quickly and efficiently.

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