A sump pump is your home’s last line of defence against basement flooding caused by heavy rains, quick snowmelt and high groundwater levels. If your sump pump dies, your home can become vulnerable to flood damage. Here are three reasons why you should buy a battery-powered backup sump pump.
1. Your primary sump pump won’t work during power outages If you have a sump pump, it’s most likely hardwired to your home’s electrical system. This means that if there’s a power outage during a heavy rainstorm, your sump pump will stop working. Moreover, if a circuit breaker flips, it may cut power to your sump pump too. A battery-powered backup will work during power outages and other electric failures. You just need to test the pump once in a while to make sure it works and that you have adequate water levels in your battery. 2. Sump pumps can be overwhelmed by heavy rain A primary sump pump can handle only so much water. Extended periods of heavy rain can saturate the ground around your home and send hundreds of litres of water into your sump pit. In some cases, water might flow in more quickly than your pump can take it out. A battery-powered backup can share the load and work in tandem with your primary pump. The pumps are installed next to each other. The backup has a separate float switch set a bit higher than your primary switch so when water levels get too high, the backup is triggered into action. 3. Your primary sump pump can break down No sump pump lasts forever, and sooner or later your home’s main pump will break down. This can be caused by a faulty float switch, a burnt-out motor, debris in the pump mechanism or a blocked exit pipe. This could happen at any time, and you may or may not be home when it occurs. With a battery-powered backup, you know you’re covered in case of any emergency. To avoid a breakdown, plumbing experts recommend you get your sump pump professionally inspected and tested at least once a year. A technician will check that the float switch and motor are working, look for signs of rust and clean debris from the pit and discharge pipe. The technician will also make sure your backup is ready to go. Sump pump installation in southern Ontario At Black Forest Plumbing, our plumbing experts can install a sump pump along with a battery-powered backup. We also provide annual sump pump inspections plus a wide range of other plumbing services for your home or business. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, contact us today.