If you live in a region prone to flooding, a sump pump battery backup can be an excellent line of defense. These systems are easy to install and can save you the cost of repairs and water removal.
Battery backup systems switch to DC battery power when the main sump pump fails. Then the batteries recharge until the next power outage.
Battery Life
A battery backup sump pump is a heavy-duty pump that will activate in case your primary sump pump fails, keeping your home from flooding during storms or power outages. These pumps typically consist of a large battery that converts AC power into DC power, and a second pump that will activate if the water level rises too high.
These systems run on DC (battery) power and are typically maintenance-free, meaning they don’t require additional fluids or chemicals. However, they still need to be checked on a regular basis to ensure that the batteries are full and in good condition.
If you’re thinking about installing a battery backup in your home, it’s important to know how long the system can pump before needing to be recharged. Several factors influence this, including the power consumption of the pump, how often it turns on and off, and the duty cycle. The experts at Basement Masters Waterproofing can help you determine the best solution for your home in Muncie, Yorktown, Chesterfield and Selma.
Power Consumption
A battery backup sump pump is a great solution to keep your basement safe in the event of a power outage or primary sump pump failure. But, as with any system, a battery backup system requires regular maintenance checks to ensure the water levels and terminals are properly charged.
A backup sump pump’s power consumption depends on how long it runs and the type of battery used. Some batteries require a higher-quality charger to provide the best run time. As a general rule, a new battery will typically power a backup sump pump for seven hours.
However, a battery’s ability to hold a charge can decrease over time. Using a multimeter, check the battery for voltage on the positive and negative terminals. A drop in voltage means the battery is close to losing its capacity, and you should consider replacing it. Often, homeowners assume a battery still holds its charge and don’t replace it until they wake up to a flooded basement.
Duty Cycle
If you install a battery backup sump pump, be sure to buy a deep-cycle “maintenance-free” battery (like an AGM). These batteries do not require additional fluid such as water or acid. It is also a good idea to remove the pump from the sump pit regularly and clean out any debris to avoid clogging. If you prefer to leave the pump in place, consider adding a check valve on the discharge line to prevent backflow into the sump pit.
The cost of a battery backup system may be more than a standard water-powered pump upfront, but it will save homeowners money in the long run by eliminating costly repair bills, water removal and other flood-related expenses. If you live in an area prone to severe storms with frequent power outages, a battery backup is well worth the investment to protect your home from flood damage. Some systems can even monitor battery status, test themselves and alert homeowners in the event of an issue.
Recharging
A battery backup sump pump is a newer, more affordable option to protect your home from basement flooding in the event of a power outage or a primary sump pump failure. It has a large, 12-volt battery and a converter that converts AC power into DC power to run the backup pump.
This type of system also includes a second, heavy-duty pump that sits higher than your existing sump pump. When the battery-operated pump goes on, it will begin to remove water from the sump basket and keep it at a safe level.
A good battery backup system is worth the investment, especially if your area experiences severe storms that could cause your power to go out and your electrically powered sump pump to shut off. Basement Masters Waterproofing can install a battery backup in your home as part of our full waterproofing system. Contact us today to request a free evaluation!