If your home is at high risk for flooding, consider investing in a sump pump with battery backup. This will protect your basement from water damage and help to prevent mold growth.
Many reasons can cause your sump pump to malfunction, but one of the most frequent is a power outage.
Battery Life
Battery backup sump pumps offer an extra layer of protection in case your home’s primary pump stops working due to power outage or circuit breaker malfunction. Without them, you won’t be able to keep your basement dry and avoid costly structural damage from flooding.
If you already have a sump pump or are considering installing one in your home, the initial step is selecting the appropriate battery type for your requirements. Ultimately, what type of battery you select will depend on how many pumps are present and the type of water issue that needs addressing.
Two basic types of batteries can be purchased: wet-cell (flooded) and deep-cycle lead-acid. Both are cost effective and can be found at local home supply or hardware stores for a reasonable price.
Flooded-cell batteries are ideal for starting vehicles or appliances; however, they don’t last very long when exposed to corrosive chemicals.
In general, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries (also referred to as marine batteries) are the preferred backup choice for sump pump backups. These types of batteries are rated in ampere-hours (AH), which indicates how many amps they can supply over an extended period.
When selecting a battery for backup sump pump applications, its AH rating should be taken into consideration. For instance, if your main pump draws 40 amps of power, then you need a battery with at most an AH rating of 120AH.
Battery life will vary based on how often your sump pump activates. Generally, the more frequently your sump pump runs, the shorter its battery life will be.
Another factor affecting battery life is the number of sump pumps connected to your battery. If there are multiple pumps, each drawing more energy from the battery, this could reduce its lifespan significantly.
Maintaining your sump pump battery’s health will help it last for extended periods. It is also wise to check its voltage periodically using either a voltmeter or volt-ohm meter; this will guarantee that the battery has reached full charge and remains healthy and fully charged.
Checking the Battery Charger
Installing a sump pump in your basement is an important investment that will shield the home against water damage, mold and mildew growth, as well as reduce fire hazards. But before you replace it with another model, make sure it works properly first.
One way to confirm whether your battery charger is functioning correctly is by using a multimeter. These can be purchased at any hardware store or online. Simply place the leads against the terminals with red for positive and black for negative polarity; this will let you know whether your charger has made its mark.
A green light on your multimeter indicates that the battery is charging properly. Conversely, if you observe red lighting, that indicates that the battery isn’t getting charged sufficiently and must be replaced.
Before replacing your battery, be sure to test it out for longevity. This way, you can accurately gauge how long the new device will run on a single charge.
What size sump pit and pump do you choose? Additionally, the type of battery used will have an impact.
When selecting a battery for your sump pump, opt for one with an impressive amperage rating (Ah). This indicates the maximum power that the battery can deliver and will ensure optimal operation of your sump pump.
Another element to consider when purchasing a battery for your sump pump is its voltage. Most pumps require 12 volts, so make sure the new battery matches up with your model.
When installing a sump pump battery backup, homeowners often make the mistake of selecting the wrong battery type for their needs. This can lead to poor performance and even malfunctioning of the device.
Furthermore, an outdated battery will not function efficiently and may be more vulnerable to damage and won’t last as long as expected.
Furthermore, the battery charger must be in optimal working condition to guarantee adequate power when needed. That is why regular checks of its condition are so critical.
Replacing the Battery
If your basement already has a sump pump, it would be wise to consider adding a battery backup. These units offer protection in case there is an electrical outage and typically cost around $900; however, quality units may be available for less than $200 depending on price point.
These systems typically include a charger, battery-operated pump and extra piping. Some battery backups also enable you to connect other devices in your home for power in case the main sump pump malfunctions.
The most commonly used battery in these systems is a lead acid battery, similar to what you use for car starting. These batteries come in different capacities and ratings such as ampere-hours (AH) or cold cranking amps (CCA).
Selecting the Correct Battery for Your Sump Pump
When looking for a backup sump pump, there are two primary choices: deep-cycle or combination 12-volt lead-acid batteries. A deep-cycle battery is preferable over a combination, as it will last longer and provide more hours of protection.
Combination 12 volt batteries are usually more cost-effective than deep cycle models, though they may not be as strong. It is essential to consult your backup sump pump manual to determine what ampere-hour and CCA ratings the manufacturer recommends for optimal performance.
Many batteries require that you top them off with distilled water periodically in order to prevent corrosion and maintain their charge. This low-maintenance task can help extend the life of your backup system and keep your basement dry during an outage.
Another option is to replace your battery with a maintenance-free sealed unit. Some of these batteries need topping off with specific fluid, while others are completely maintenance free and don’t require any additional fluid at all.
Are you in need of a new battery for your sump pump? PlumbWize can help! With decades of experience helping homeowners in Willow Grove PA with their home improvement projects, contact us today to learn more about our services and receive recommendations that fit your requirements. We will answer any queries you might have and provide recommendations that will work best.
