Pumps do not last forever. They fail. Often, with disastrous results. Your basement sump pump should be tested at least 2 times a year. Run or pour water into the pump pit until the pump activates. Observe the pump housing and discharge piping for leaks. Make sure the discharge pipe outlet, wherever it is, is clear. Pumps over 10 years old should be replaced proactively. You should not take chances. But even pumps of lesser vintage can fail, being mechanical and not divine in nature. Often, major storms and down pours are accompanied by power outages. Just when you need your pump most urgently, it lies there in the dark pit, useless as a rock. Fortunately today, we have two types of backup systems.

First, there is a battery backup pump. This pump operates off a marine-type battery. The battery is continuously charged through a nearby wall outlet. Should the primary pump fail, the water level will rise higher, triggering the battery-powered backup pump. This pump has a lower capacity that the main pump, but will usually suffice for short power blackouts. Should the power be out for longer periods of time, the battery will completely discharge. Battery backup pumps should also be tested twice a year.

The average battery life is about two years. After this period of time they should be replaced. (Note: keep records or a reminder on your computer.) Second and most recent, is the water-powered backup pump, also called water actuated. This device operates on the principal of water pressure. The water-powered backup pump is connected to the house water supply line. If the main pump fails, the water level will rise and trigger the backup pump. A mechanical valve will open, permitting high pressure water to operate a small turbine wheel. The will drives the pump. The pump will provide enough capacity to remove water in the sump pit along with any water used to power it. No batteries are required and other then twice yearly testing, there is no maintenance.

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