Do I Need a Sump Pump Battery Backup?
Worried that your primary sump pump will fail when you need it the most? Then you might want to consider getting a sump pump battery backup.
Essentially, a sump pump battery backup is a backup pump that operates on a battery. With this backup handy, you can avoid flooding and subsequent water damage in case your primary pump fails during a storm—or if your electric sump pump cannot function because of a power outage during inclement weather.
Sump pump battery backups are an investment that can cost you around $1,000 or more. However, they’re typically not as heavy-duty as primary sump pumps. This complete guide talks about key considerations before getting a sump pump backup for your home.
What Is a Sump Pump Battery Backup?
A sump pump battery backup is a small system designed to keep your sump pump working if the power goes out at your home. The traditional sump pump battery backup kit consists of a charger, battery-powered pump, battery, and extra piping.
There are various types of sump pump battery backups available and the prices vary based on how effective they are and how quickly they can pump water away from your home. Like most devices, there are advantages and disadvantages to installing one for your home. While they are easy to install and can function without a water supply, they often run out of power before the storm ends. On top of that, they also require maintenance to keep them in shape.
Is A Sump Pump Battery Backup Worth It?
Almost every river in Canada is prone to cause floods at some point. Flooding is a substantial problem for many Canadian homeowners between the spring thaw, heavy thunderstorms, and tropical storms. Power outages accompany many of these situations—which may be why you are considering getting backup sump pumps.
When faced with the extra expense of installing a sump pump battery backup, most consumers want to know one thing, “Is it worth it?” Let’s take a closer look at what you should consider before installing a sump pump backup. Remember that every homeowner’s situation is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Backup Sump Pumps Cost Around $1,000 or More
Backup sump pumps can cost upwards of $1,000. If you don’t have a lot of power outages in your area or experience minimal floods, then spending this amount of money to give your sump pump a backup might seem a bit unnecessary.
However, if flooding is a common occurrence, you might want to weigh the costs of flood damage. Considering this, paying $1,000 for a sump pump battery backup might be more reasonable.
Electric Sump Pumps Are More Likely To Need a Backup
Electric sump pumps generally require a backup system since they are affected by the loss of primary power in a home. Therefore, if you are worried about power outages rendering your main sump pump ineffective, then a sump pump battery backup is the logical solution. Since the sump pump battery backup does not require electrical power, you can rest assured it will kick in under any weather condition.
A Water Pressure Sump Pump Could Also Use a Backup
While water pressure sump pumps are often designed to work as emergency pumps, they could still use the help of a sump pump battery backup.
The reason for this is simple: they are only designed to kick in when there is a significant amount of water pressure. Therefore, if the water pressure is not high enough, it will not work—but that doesn’t always mean there isn’t already some water seeping into your home or foundation. It just means that an excessive amount is not seeping in.
A Sump Pump Battery Backup Needs Maintenance Too
You may already know that your sump pump requires maintenance, but you may not realize that a sump pump battery backup also requires maintenance.
The best practice is to check battery water levels every few months. And at least twice a year, you need to clean the battery terminals. In addition, you need to expect to replace the battery about every five years to keep the entire kit functioning properly. If you don’t keep up with proper sump pump battery backup maintenance, you will likely need to replace the battery sooner.
Is Your Basement Frequently Flooded?
Finally, the deciding factor in whether or not you should install a sump pump battery backup is if your basement floods frequently. If you only experience one or two floods a year, the backup might not be worth your investment. This is even more true if you don’t frequently experience electrical outages.
However, if your home floods frequently and you do experience electrical outages, a sump pump battery backup is a wise investment.
Sump Pump Battery Backup Installation by the Experts
If you need a sump pump battery backup, PlumbWize is here to help. With decades of experience, our plumbers consistently help clients protect their homes from water damage.
Contact us today to learn more about our sump pump installation and service options!
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