Battery Backup Sump Pumps: Should You Have One?

Don Vandervort

If your basement tends to flood during winter and you live in an area where thunderstorms, floods or brownouts tend to knock-out the power, consider buying a sump pump that will operate on its own power. Most of these are intended to be auxiliary pumps--used in tandem with the primary pump; they kick-in if the main pump fails. One type runs on a rechargeable 12-volt battery. Another is hooked up to the house's water system and operates by water pressure.

Whether or not you need a backup really depends on your situation--the likelihood of a power or pump failure and the damage such a failure could cause. In some cases, an inexpensive high-water alarm will suffice. On the other hand, if you're going to lie in bed on a rainy night and wonder if your new sisal-wool carpet is under water, a backup pump may give you more than flood protection--it may give you peace of mind.