Is your home prone to flooding? If so, you might be looking for methods to keep your property protected. Sump pump systems are one of the best ways to keep your basement or cellar dry in heavy rain. But unfortunately, even they can fail when faced with power outages.

A sump pump battery backup is a secondary power source that keeps your pumps running when ground water rises. If your main pump stops working, the backup will start working almost instantly.

 

How long will a backup system for a sump pump last during a power cut?

A battery backup can run a primary sump pump for around 7 hours continuously. However, it’s not that common for them to operate around the clock.

Why? Because typically, the battery turns on and off based on how much water is in the pit. If your pump floods intermittently rather than constantly, it lasts up to 24 hours.

 

How to install a sump pump backup battery

The good news is that you can often carry out a DIY job when it comes to a backup sump pump installation.

However, it can also be a wise move to hire a professional in some cases. This is especially true if your sump pump setup is complicated, or if you don’t know much about electrical work.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to install a backup sump pump:

1. Pick the right spot

Choose a safe place for your battery backup system. It needs to be somewhere that’s flat, dry, and near both your sump pit and a power outlet. To prevent the battery from getting wet, don’t place it directly on your basement floor.

2. Unplug the pump

Unplug your main sump pump from the wall before you start the wiring.

3. Set up the backup pump (if there is one included)

Some battery backup systems have a second pump that works as a backup. If your sump pit has one included, put this pump next to the main pump inside it. It is best to place it a little higher so that it only turns on when the main pump fails.

4. Hook up the battery

Put the battery in its box and connect the terminals carefully. Make sure that the positive terminal leads to the positive terminal, and the negative terminal connects to the negative terminal.

5. Connect the control unit

Next, plug the battery into the control unit or inverter. When the power goes out, this device controls the switch from your home’s main power to the battery. If your system has alarm indicators or status lights, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect them.

6. Check over the system

Once everything is connected, plug the battery charger and the main sump pump into the backup system. Test it out by adding some water to the sump pit to raise the water level. Then, unplug the main power source. Check that the battery backup system kicks in and keeps the pump running.

If done correctly, the pump will continue to run, powered by the backup system.

 

Invest in a battery backup from Sumps & Pumps

If you’re considering a backup pump for your sump, then we’re here to help.

We supply a wide range of battery backup systems with different voltage options to suit every sump pump configuration. If you’re unsure which model is best for you, get in touch with Sumps & Pumps for our expert advice.