The Importance of Having a Sump Pump Backup

Summary:  A sump pump backup system can come in pretty handy if your main sump pump stops working.  A backup unit is not overly costly and can save thousands of dollars in damage if there is flooding in the basement.

 When a sump pump is needed, it is used to help protect the basement, foundation and the occupants of the house. By removing excess water, the sump pump will primarily keep the basement from flooding and prevent damage to the contents. In addition, the sump pump will keep the excess water away from the slab and reduce any harmful exposure to it. Finally, a sump pump also removes the water which is home to bacteria and mold that can be dangerous to the health of anyone living in the house. If, however, the sump pump stops working, a sump pump backup can be highly beneficial.

A sump pump may stop working because it is in need of maintenance or repair.  However, the more common reason for a primary sump pump to stop working is loss of electricity.  Because a primary sump pump, whether a pedestal type or submersible, is run on electricity, if there is a power outage for any reason, the pump will cease to run.  This can cause a lot of problems if there is an extended period of time.  Therefore, a lot of homeowners choose to have a secondary unit or sump pump backup in order to reduce the risk to their home and the people in it.

A sump pump backup is battery operated and will switch on in the case of a power outage.  The sump pump backup should be above the floor somewhat and use a sensor to know when the electric, primary pump stops working.  Because the odds of the primary ceasing to work are slim, there is sometimes the chance that the battery powered backup sump pump will not work when needed.  So, it is important to periodically test the unit to make sure it is charging and will work when and if it is needed. 

A sump pump backup will require a battery as well as a trickle charge component.  When the unit is not actively working, the trickle charge ensures that it is always at the ready and the battery is at full capacity.  Typically, unless there is a severe power outage, a sump pump backup will only need to be used periodically and for short periods of time.  Many people choose to allay the expense of this since there is not a lot of risk.  However, a sump pump backup is not overly costly and if needed it can save literally thousands of dollars in damage if there is flooding in the basement. 

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• Are Battery Backup Sump Pump Systems Necessary?