Backup Sump Pump
If you’re a homeowner with an active sump pump, it’s important to be aware that these systems don’t last forever. In fact, sump pumps can fail without warning, often at the most inconvenient times – like in the middle of the night during a heavy rainstorm. If your sump pump fails, you may wake up to a flooded basement, which can be a major headache and costly to fix. I’ve had home inspection customers who have experienced this problem, and it’s something that most people don’t think about until it’s too late.
To prevent a flooded basement due to a failed sump pump, it’s a good idea to install a backup system. There are two common types of backup systems: battery-powered pumps and water-powered pumps.
Battery-powered pumps consist of a large battery (similar in size and shape to a car battery) and a backup sump pump that sits in the sump basket. This system will kick in if your primary pump fails or if the power goes out. The Basement Watchdog is a brand that offers backup batteries with a warning system to alert you if there’s a problem with the battery. It’s worth considering this feature because many backup batteries are found dead when needed. If you’re not comfortable with the installation process, hiring a plumber is a good idea to ensure everything is set up correctly.
Water-powered pumps are another option for backup systems. These pumps are powered by the municipal water supply and don’t require a charged battery. This can be a major advantage if you experience an extended power outage. However, it’s worth noting that water-powered pumps use a lot of water and can be slow. Brands like the Basepump and the SumpJet use 1 gallon of city water to remove 2 gallons of sump basket water, while the Burcam Sump Buddy uses more water, although it’s not clear exactly how much. If your home is supplied with water from a well, a hydraulic backup pump may not be a good choice because a power outage would disable the well pump and render the backup pump useless.
In addition to installing a backup system, it’s also a good idea to install a high-level water alarm in your sump basket. These alarms will sound if the water level gets too high, alerting you to a problem and giving you time to take action. Home Depot sells these alarms for around $12, and they’re relatively easy to install.
In conclusion, it’s essential to be aware that sump pumps can fail and cause a flooded basement. To prevent this from happening, it’s a good idea to install a backup system, such as a battery-powered pump or a water-powered pump. It’s also helpful to have a high-level water alarm installed in the sump basket to alert you to any problems. By taking these precautions, you can protect your home and avoid the stress and expense of a flooded basement.
