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Amid a massive storm, if your sump pump has ever stopped working due to a power outage, then you know the necessity of a backup. However, you have two ways in front of you. One path leads to the water-powered backup sump pump, and the other goes to a battery backup one. Though both have beneficial features, each has distinguishing traits that make them worthwhile.
For you to know how each will be of service, we have pointed out the difference between these two:
- They both have different ways of performing.
- Each has different structures.
- While the water-powered pump is a single device, the other is an extension to the primary pump.
- Both do not extract the same GPH of water.
- They have different running times.
- Each has distinct drawbacks.
Once you read the article, you will get a clear idea of how each works and select the one you need for your basement. You won’t regret it in the future as you will know the ins and outs of each product.
Table of Contents
Sump Pumps
First, let us give you a clear idea of what a sump pump is. For the newbies, a sump pump is a machine that drains water off your basement, protecting it from flooding. As the water rises to a certain level and reaches the float switch, the latter activates the device. Moreover, its presence at home removes weight from your chest and allows you to enjoy days after days away from the place. The main problem starts when the primary pump fails and needs an immediate backup to prevent the sneaky water assault.
Therefore, to avoid such a situation, you have to be prepared either with a water-powered backup sump pump or a battery-powered backup one.
Why Might the Primary Sump Pump Shut Down?
Any machine, be it a pump, phone, or car, is not designed to operate for years, and it might bid adieu at any time. Also, a sudden power failure is another reason why your primary pump fails to activate. Apart from this, the float switch might be stuck, or the drainage pipes and the sump basin might be clogged. The backup sump pumps are your life saviors. In your absence, it precisely plays the role of a fullback when your entire basement is defenseless.
Battery Backup Sump Pumps
Function
It is a secondary pump that remains fixed beside the primary pump in the same pit to run when the latter fails. It works exactly the same way as the primary one. Moreover, its float switch is situated a little above the main pump; so that, after the primary machine’s failure, it takes a few seconds to turn on.
Advantages of battery backup sump pumps
· Independent of Water
The secondary pump works independently without any external factor to keep it operating.
· Effective Performer
It ensures the removal of every last drop of water from the basement.
· Pumping Volume
With its power, it removes 25 gallons of water per minute, assuring faster work.
· Easy Installment Process
Plumbers won’t have to dig again, and its small structure simplifies their task. you can read our guide on the installation of battery backup.
You have to spend around $150 to $500, depending on the brand you will buy.
Disadvantages
· Running time
As it is battery-operated, it might run out of charge at any time. If your house is out of electricity for a few days, and you have failed to recharge the battery, then no one can save your floor from flooding.
· Battery Replacement
A battery has to be replaced after 3 or 4 years; otherwise, you might have to face terrifying weather without a backup.
Water-powered backup sump pumps
Function
After a power failure, though the primary pump cannot play its part, a float switch triggers the water-powered pump as the water level increases. Consequently, the valve of the ejector pipe opens, allowing the flow of municipal water through it. Therefore, a strong suction force pulls water up the discharging pipe from the basin and results in a dry basement floor. The cycle continues as long as water remains.
Advantages of water-powered backup sump pumps
· Adequate Water
One of its most beneficial features is the adequate supply of water from the municipal line. Even if you are residing in an urban locale, electricity might betray you on a stormy day but, water won’t.
· No Battery Needed
You won’t have to worry about charging any battery or replacing it; it requires zero electricity involvement.
· Low Maintenance
Having a very simple structure and only a few vital parts like valves and float, it requires no significant maintenance. Even after working nonstop, no parts get overheated, reducing the chance of any risk.
Disadvantages:
· Challenging Installment Process
Compared to other backup pumps, the installment of this pump needs more attention. As its pipes are connected to the municipal water supply, a water shortage would change the entire functionality.
· Expensive
The installation cost is around $1500-$5000, which is comparatively more than the alternative. So, you have to bring out the big bucks to afford this pump.
· More Water Pressure
As the device has no motor, it needs high municipal water pressure to result in an effective discharging of water. If your house is far from the main water supply line or several places are drawing water from the same line, the required suction force might be insufficient.
· Less Drainage of Water
This point is a thing to worry about as it only draws up about 1000 GP of water up the ground of 10 feet. So, even if all the other stars are aligned, a behemoth of a water inflow will break through the guard of a water-powered sump pump.
Closing Thoughts
Both the backup pumps have convincing features to confuse even the smartest of people. However, if you consider their disadvantages, things will be easy for you. If you face a water shortage in your area very often, nothing would be a better choice than a battery backup. But, if maintenance is something you would love to avoid, a water-powered pump will be your savior. So, take a breather, and evaluate both the pros and cons of each pump type before you finalize your decision.
