Sump pumps can prevent flood damage during severe storms. However, they need electricity to work. That’s where a backup sump pump comes in. If the power goes out, it turns on and keeps your sump pump running. We look at the most common sump pump backup systems. Plus, we explain the differences between water-powered sump pump back ups and sump pump battery backups.
What is a Sump Pump Backup System?
A sump pump backup system is an optional addition to your current setup that will keep your sump pump running even if the power goes out. The most common types of backup sump pumps are battery backups and water-powered backups. Although less common, you can also backup generators to run your sump pump during a power outage.
Battery Backup Sump Pump
Battery backups are usually added to your existing sump pump. In most cases, it’s as simple as plugging the backup into an outlet and your sump pump into the battery. If the power goes out during a storm, the backup battery will keep your sump pump running. However, the battery will eventually wear out.
- Pro: Easy to Install and Use – Installing and using battery backups is usually as simple as plugging them in. If the power fails, they will switch on automatically.
- Pro: Higher Pumping Volume – Since the battery backup powers your regular submersible sump pump, it offers high pumping volume. This means higher protection against flooding during rainstorms.
- Pro: Least Expensive – A battery backup is the least expensive way to protect your home from water damage if the power goes out.
- Con: Limited Running Time – Like all batteries, your backup will eventually run out of power. This increases the chances of flooding if the power is out for a long time.
- Con: Only Lasts a Few Years – Also, battery backups usually only last three to five years. They also tend to wear out faster the less they get used.
Water-Powered Sump Pump Backups
In most cases, water-powered backups are completely separate from your primary sump pump. Since they use water pressure to create suction, they can run as long as your water is working. However, they are more difficult to install. If your water pressure is low, they are also less powerful than a battery backup or a generator.
- Pro: Nearly Unlimited Running Time – Since they run on water instead of electricity, your sump pump backup can run basically forever.
- Pro: Will Last Many Years – As long as your backup is set up correctly, it will last you a long time. Depending on how often it runs, you should replace your sump pump backup every fifteen to twenty years.
- Con: More Expensive – While they do last a long time, they are also more expensive to install. If water costs are high in your area, they are expensive to run as well.
- Con: Harder to Install – They are more difficult to install and have specific requirements to work properly. Plus, they cannot be installed if you have well water.
- Con: Lower Pumping Volume – Due to the way they work, they have a lower pumping volume than battery backup sump pumps or a generator. This increases the risk of flooding during severe storms.
Portable Backup Generators
A portable backup generator is a gas-powered engine that produces electricity. You can then plug in any ordinary electrical device, including your primary sump pump. While it does need to run outside your home for safety, a backup generator will run as long as you keep adding gas.
- Pro: Extremely Long Running Time – Since they run on gas, they can usually run for a very long time. This gives you the best protection against water damage.
- Pro: Long Lasting – Like water-powered backups, they usually last a long time. As long as you properly maintain it, they will usually last anywhere from ten to twenty years.
- Pro: Powers Several Things – They usually have more than one outlet, so you can power more than just your sump pump.
- Con: Usually Expensive – Most range from several hundred to thousands of dollars.
- Con: Must Run Outside – Since they produce dangerous carbon monoxide, it is only safe to use them outside.
- Con: Very Loud – Most generators are very loud, which can annoy both you and your neighbors. While so-called quiet models exist, they are usually more expensive and not that much quieter.
How to Choose a Backup Sump Pump
When it comes to choosing a sump pump backup system, look for the right balance between cost and protection for your home. Here are a few factors to consider when buying a backup system.
- How often your primary pump runs
- The number of severe storms each year
- How often your power goes out
- Whether you have city water or well water
- Your budget for a sump pump backup
Battery backups usually offer the best protection if you only have a few major storms a year and the power doesn’t go out that often. While a battery backup is less expensive upfront, you can spend just as much in the long run.
If you have frequent storms and power outages, a water-powered backup might be more reliable. However, you do need a reliable water source though. Although it’s more expensive upfront, most units last at least ten to twenty years.
A backup generator might be the best option if you have frequent power outages but don’t have a reliable water source. They are also good options if you do a lot of DIY projects or already need portable power options. That said, they can get expensive quickly and need gas to run.
Regardless of which sump pump backup system you choose, make sure you check your setup often if the power goes out. If the basin continues to fill even with the pump running, use a bucket to bail out extra water. Dump the water outside instead of down your drains. Otherwise, you could cause a sewage backup.
If you have flood damage after a sump pump failure, Restoration Local can help. Call 1-888-443-3110 now for a free estimate from our local restoration contractor. We offer 24-hour service and fast, reliable water damage cleanup services.
