A backup sump pump is a crucial component to your home’s water safety and protection. They help prevent basement flooding, foundation damage and more.
They can also be a lifesaver when the primary sump pump goes out of service for whatever reason (motor burnout, float switch malfunction or something else). Battery-powered backup systems operate off a rechargeable battery.
Installation
If your basement or other area of your home is at risk for water damage, it is critical to have a reliable backup sump pump installed. Having a working sump pump can prevent structural damage, costly water damage repairs and mold.
There are several types of backup sump pumps that are available on the market, including dual power and battery backup systems. These options are generally a good choice for homes in areas that experience frequent severe storms or other weather events.
In many cases, the primary sump pump stops working due to a variety of problems. A loss of utility-provided power, motor burnout or float switch malfunction are all common causes of this issue.
A water-powered backup sump pump uses high pressure municipal water to activate a secondary float switch that then flows through a venturi to empty the sump pit and discharge water outside. This type of system can be a very reliable backup solution for your home in areas that have municipal water supply lines.
Maintenance
Your backup sump pump is one of the most important home water prevention tools. It helps prevent water from doing damage to your basement’s foundation and protects it from flooding during heavy rain.
To keep your system in peak shape, you need to schedule maintenance appointments regularly. This will allow your plumber to check for loose connections and excess sediment, among other issues that can affect the performance of your system.
A backup sump pump should have a battery that can power it in case of an electrical outage. This should be a deep-cycle lead-acid battery (also called a marine battery), which is rated in cold cranking amps and comes with a life expectancy of 20 hours or more.
If you need help selecting the right battery for your backup sump pump, be sure to ask your professional plumber for advice. They will be able to recommend the best battery for your system and help you find the most suitable one for your home.
Replacement
A backup sump pump installation Lakewood OH will keep your basement dry when the power goes out or you have a flood. When water rises, the backup pumps automatically kick on to move the excess water out of the basement.
When your sump pump stops working for reasons such as a broken motor or float switch, the professionals at ASAP Plumbing can repair it quickly. They can also help you get a new sump pump if your current one is past its prime.
The replacement of your sump pump is important to keeping your basement dry and safe from water damage. The sooner you replace a faulty sump pump, the less expensive it will be.
You should replace your backup sump pump at least once a year to keep it operating efficiently. You will need to clean the pump thoroughly and check it for any debris that may clog the float. This is a good time to replace your battery as well.
Troubleshooting
In some cases, a sump pump may stop working due to mechanical or electrical issues. In this case, a backup sump pump can be used to provide extra protection for your home’s basement.
These battery backup sump pumps are usually installed next to the primary sump pump in the sump pit and are powered by a large 12-volt battery and a DC converter. This system can detect when the primary pump is not operating and automatically switch on to help drain water out of your basement.
The battery in the backup sump pump should be checked regularly to ensure that it is fully charged and working correctly. Using a battery voltage tester can help ensure this is the case.
