How to Install a Battery Back-up Sump Pump

Your sump pump's sole purpose is to provide your home with protection against unwanted water. Water seepage, runoff water, or leaking water can all result in a serious threat to your home. The sump pump is designed to automatically remove this water as it gathers. Because of this design, the sump pump is generally not monitored and any failure of the system, be it do to a mechanical issue or the loss of electrical power, can go undetected and result in majer damage. Because of the severity of the risk it is advisable to install a back-up system.

There are several types of back-up systems available to you. The most commonly used is a battery back-up. This system uses a marine battery to power a secondary pump within the same pit as the primary pump. In most instances install is very easy and can be accomplished in a relatively short period of time. Begin by spreading out all the various components of the system to make certain they are all present and properly identified before assembly begins.

The kit will include an adjustable bracket. Adjust the lower portion of the bracket so it is as low in the sump pit as possible without interfering with the operation of the primary pump. The upper portion of the bracket will rest on the floor just outside the top of the pit. The battery, in its protective case, will be set on top of this section to act as a counterweight to hold the pump in place below. Once the battery is in place, mount the back-up pump on the lower end of the bracket. Make certain both pumps have adequate room to operate.

Make all electrical connections to the motor. It is critical no wires dangle into the sump pit. If wires are left loose in the pit they could become caught up in the pump's impeller and damage not only the primary pump, but render the back-up pump useless as well.

Attach the drain hose to the outlet port of the back-up pump. The drain line will need to extend up and out of the pit to a location where it can be joined to the primary drain line. You will need to cut into the primary drain line and install a back flow Tee valve. This will allow water to flow through the primary drain as normal but will not allow water from the primary pump to enter the drain from the back-up pump. Note, be certain the drain from the back-up pump is connected above the back flow valve from the primary pump.

Connect the battery charger to the battery then to an outlet. This outlet should be a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interruption) device. This will provide maximum protection against electrical fires as well as electrocution. Once all components are installed you should test both pumps to be certain they are operating properly.

It is highly advisable to also install an alarm system which will alert you when the back-up pump is activated. If the back-up was activated due to a mechanical failure of the primary pump you will want to have this information as soon as possible so repairs can be made.