If you’re worried about power outages, or if you experience flooding from time to time, then installing a sump pump battery backup can be a great investment.
It includes a sump pump, 12-volt marine battery, and additional piping. The backup system automatically takes over if the primary pump fails or goes out of service.
Cost of the Pump
A sump pump is a water-powered or battery-operated device that draws in and pumps out the water accumulated under the basement floor. It’s available in pedestal and submersible models.
Pedestal sump pumps start at $60, and submersibles cost about $450-$500. These cost more because they’re designed to be installed directly under the basement floor.
How much the pump costs depends on how big it is, how powerful it is, and where you live. Typically, smaller pumps are enough for homes that receive minimal rainfall.
Labor charges vary, as well, depending on the type of work you’re having done. Installers who work on concrete floors need jackhammers and other tools to dig into the floor before putting in the pump.
If you’re in a wet area, consider getting a higher-powered sump pump to keep your basement dry. It’s worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your basement won’t flood again. For an accurate estimate, ask for quotes from reputable professionals in your area.
Cost of the Battery
One of the best ways to protect your basement from flooding is to install a battery backup sump pump. This battery-powered system is designed to work even if your home loses power.
The cost of a battery-backed sump pump can vary, depending on its capacity and the type of charger that it uses. It can also depend on the size of your basement.
On average, a sump pump with battery backup will cost $1,220 to place in your basement, yard, or crawl space. Combination units that run on water pressure and have a battery backup may cost a few hundred dollars more.
A battery-backed sump pump is a smart system that monitors a wall outlet for a power outage. When an electrical outage is detected, it will automatically activate the backup battery to ensure that the primary sump pump keeps working.
Cost of the Charger
There are a few things you need to consider when installing a sump pump battery backup system. These include the type of battery, the charger, and the piping.
The charger is the heart of a battery backup system, and it’s responsible for three important jobs: charging the batteries, keeping them charged at all times, and making sure they have enough power to keep your sump pump running during an outage.
In addition, it’s also responsible for converting the electricity from the battery into the correct amount of AC power to run your primary sump pump.
The battery is usually a standard lead-acid car or marine battery. Depending on the brand, these batteries can last up to 3 – 5 years, and you should plan to replace them around that time.
Cost of Installation
When a backup sump pump is installed, the installation costs vary depending on how much work it requires. Contractors who install sump pumps typically charge between $600 and $1,200 to do the job.
A sump pump battery backup system consists of a sump pump, a battery and electrical and plumbing accessories. These systems act as a secondary, backup system that takes over if the primary sump pump system fails or goes down due to a power outage.
If your basement floods often, a backup sump pump system is worth the investment. However, if you only have minor seepage and don’t often experience power outages, a backup system might not be the right fit.