What is an inverter in sump pump?
An inverter converts the DC power stored in a battery into AC power. It works like a UPS but for sump pumps since a typical UPS is not powerful enough to handle the load needed.
What is included in a pump package?
The package usually includes the primary pump and the battery backup pump each with its own float switch and check valve.
How long does a DC backup sump pump last?
The DC backup sump pump is a pump you use as a battery backup for existing sump pumps. It’s a 12V pump that uses the energy stored in a battery to run. It can protect your basement for several hours up to a couple of days, depending on how often it needs to run.
What are the disadvantages of a battery backup pump?
But, in return for its reliability, there are also a few disadvantages: It can pump less water compared to battery backup pumps. Higher water bill when used. It can affect water supply pressure if everyone is using it. It can add more water to the streets. You need to be connected to municipal water. 5.
What is a backup sump pump?
The backup sump pump is mounted a few inches higher than the main pump and runs when the water reaches a higher level than normal.
Why do sump pumps fail?
Unfortunately, like everything else, they’re not perfect. The pumps may fail to run due to a number of reasons such as jammed impellers or loss of power.
How does a sump work?
The pressure of the water is converted into speed, creating a low-pressure area around the jet. Water in the sump moves toward the low-pressure area and is mixed with the municipal water before being discharged. They can move twice the amount of the municipal water that it needs to run.
1. Determine the right location for your sump pit
The first step in installing a sump pump is finding the right spot for your sump pit.
2. How deep should my sump pit be?
When digging your sump pit, it’s important to remember that the deeper the hole, the easier it will be to maintain. However, too deep of a pit can lead to problems like flooding and water damage.
4 . Connecting the Discharge Pipe
The discharge pipe is what will carry the water from your sump pit to the outside of your home.
5. Attaching Check Valve to Discharge Pipe
The check valve is a key part of your drainage system and should be attached to the discharge pipe as close to the pump as possible. This will help to prevent any backflow of water into the pit.
6. Connecting the Drainage System
The final step is connecting your drainage system to the sump pump hose.
7. Installing Your Pit Cover
The very last step in setting up your sump pit system is to install the sump pump pit cover.
9. Maintaining your Sump Pump
Now that your sump pump is installed and working properly, it’s important to keep some things in mind to ensure that it continues to run smoothly:
Why do you need a battery backup for a sump pump?
Having a sump pump battery back up will provide an extra mode of protection to your basement if the primary unit fails. Installing one is easy when you have the right tools and materials for the job. There are many different models available. This guide will help you install it regardless of the make or model. You should also read the instructions that come with the model you’ve bought prior to installation.
How to attach a check valve to a pipe?
Attach the new check valve between the bottom part of your L fitting and the newly laid pipe. Set the rubber couplings between the check valve and the pipe. Using a screwdriver, fasten the screws of the coupling until it provides a snug fit.
How to cut PVC pipe?
Use a jig to stabilize the pipe and cut it using the saw. Clean the fresh cut and apply primer to it. Glue the PVC adapter to the new pipe and hold it together for at least 30 seconds to make sure it’s completely sealed.
What Level Sump Pump Do You Have?
Level 1 Sump Pump: Poor drainage sump pumps run incessantly, even with little to no rain. Here it’s critical to keep your sump pumps well maintained. This sump pump is going off every two days. Testing is not required as often. In the event of system failure, keep a spare pump for quick replacement.
What is the discharge pipe on a sump pump?
All sump pumps have a discharge pipe that turns and angles along its travel path to remove water away from your house. A discharge pipe angle below the ground can break from unruly tree roots or debris. Inspect the end of your discharge pipe outside you home.
Why does my basement flood?
Basement dampness and flooding is due in part to inclement weather and poor foundation. The other part of the equation is the system that’s controlling your water flow—your sump pump.
How to check if a water pump is working?
Slowly pour a five (5) gallon bucket of water in the drum to check for proper function. The pump should turn on immediately. If there’s a problem, shut it off and discharge the water. Repair may be necessary.
Why is it important to keep your basement dry?
Keeping your basement dry is essential to the foundation integrity of your home. Water problems can wreak havoc on your basement—and on your wallet. There doesn’t have to be a big flood to cause damage. Smaller, slow leaks and cracks in your house structure can lead to unwanted water in your home.
How to check for slow leaks in water?
At night, inspect for slow leaks by taking a reading on your water meter. Don’t use any water overnight. Take a reading in the morning. If the reading has changed drastically, troubleshoot the leak and seek repair.
Can a sump pump keep up with a flood?
If this unfortunate event happens, you’ll have to combat both your natural water flow, plus your backflow of everything your sump pump already pumped. Your sump pump won’t be able to keep up and your basement can flood.
What causes primary pumps to fail?
The most common reason for pump failure is a power outage , not some problem with the pump itself. Common events besides power outages can also cut off the supply of electricity. For example, lightning can trip GFCI outlets, or someone can unplug the pump and forget to plug it back in.
Why do sump pumps burn out?
And because inexpensive pumps are built with less durable materials, they lose pumping efficiency. So the pump runs more often and burns out early. Or the motor runs but the pump doesn’t eject water.
What is sump pump battery backup?
A sump pump battery backup consists of a battery, a battery-powered pump, a charger and additional piping.
Why is a sump pump important?
A sump pump is one of the most important (and most ignored) disaster prevention devices in a home. When this simple system fails, the results can be catastrophic, leading to thousands of dollars in damage, daily disruptions caused by major repair work and higher insurance premiums for years to come. So spending some time and money on avoiding failure makes a lot of sense.
How to determine the capacity of a pump?
Here’s how: Disconnect your existing pump, pull it out of the basket, and check the GPH rating on the label or check the pump’s specifications on the manufacturer’ s Web site. Buy a new pump with at least that much capacity. If your existing pump sometimes can’t keep up with the incoming water, select a model with a higher GPH rating.
How does a generator pay for itself?
During a power outage, a generator can pay for itself in a dozen ways. One of those ways is powering a sump pump. A typical sump pump draws about 9 amps, so it won’t add much load to the generator. But a generator isn’t a perfect substitute for a backup system. A battery- or water-powered system kicks in automatically, whether you’re home or not and no matter what the failure. A portable generator works only if you’re around to connect it. And a generator (standby or portable) won’t help if your primary sump pump is kaput.
How long does a 40 amp battery last?
Here’s an example: one manufacturer’s system comes with a 40-amp/hour battery that’s projected to last up to 53 hours (pumping at the rate of 2,300 GPH once every five minutes). But, if you have serious water problems such that the pump runs once a minute, that same battery will last only 12 hours.
