When You Always Need It On -- Battery Backup Sump Pumps
Many locations that require the use of the sump pump -- in boats and home basements, for example -- require that the pump be able to operate at all times -- even if the main power supply goes off. Without a backup power source for your sump pump, water made accumulate to a dangerous level! That's why battery backup sump pumps are an excellent choice for your sump pump system -- the battery power will kick in when your main power supply goes down.
First of all, what type of battery should be used with a battery backup sump pump? For best results, you should use what is called a "deep cycle" battery -- unlike automobile batteries, a deep cycle battery is designed to operate in for an extended period of time. Using a deep cycle battery with your battery backup sump pump system is critical, as this type of battery will allow your sump pump to operate for longer periods of time without losing its charge.
A great battery backup sump pump system is that the Hydropump DH 900. I have seen them advertised for just under $280 -- and one of the things that I like best about this battery backup sump pump system is that you can get it up and running pretty quickly. This is one system that the average homeowner can feel comfortable using because of its simple and straightforward installation directions. All the parts and fittings are also included with this battery backup sump pump system -- and you need only one PVC connection (on the discharge pipe side).
Another good battery backup sump pump system is manufactured by Glen Tronics. The GLEN TRONICS PHCC-1730 Battery Backup Sump Pump is normally priced around $450 (but I have seen it advertised for less) comes with the pump unit, a 1.6 amp, 12 V DC battery charger and a battery containment box.
Another battery backup sump pump unit comes to us from Flint Walling/Star. Priced at just under $330, it comes with a control panel that constantly monitors the battery power level. This unit is capable of pumping up to 29 gallons per minute, and can pump the water at up to 5 feet in height.
Finally, if you don't have a sump pump system at all, you should check out a great system currently being manufactured by Wayne Water Systems. This is their Wayne SmartPump 3, which combines both a primary sump pump system alongside of a battery backup sump pump. Priced around $1,300, this system is designed to connect to your home security system and comes equipped with a high-powered alarm which sounds in the event of trouble.
This innovative sump pump system is designed to operate with a bare minimum of human intervention. For example, the controller on this battery backup sump pump system runs a self-diagnostic program every day to diagnose and correct any problems. This battery backup sump pump system also comes with a remote display unit which you mount upstairs -- that way you can check on the functioning of your unit without having to go into your basement. Highly recommended!
