How to Install a Sump Pump Backup Battery

While sump pumps are generally very reliable and maintenance-free, they can occasionally fail. Even when the pump is working perfectly, a power outage at a critical time can leave you exposed to a potentially devastating situation. For these reasons, anyone with a sump pump should consider installing a battery backup system in addition to the primary pump.

Things You'll Need

• Hack saw
• PVC pipe cleaner
• PVC pipe cement
• Screwdriver
• Crescent wrench
• Level
• Elbow check valve (usually included with pump)

Instructions

1. Choose the proper sump pump backup system that meets your needs without overly exceeding them. Don't pay extra for a pump just to get a capacity greater than your needs.

2. Cut into the drain line from the primary sump pump. Be certain to cut into the line above the current check valve. Carefully clean both ends of the pipe with PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, pipe cleaner and then apply PVC cement to install the elbow check valve. (Most backup pumps come in kits, which include all fittings and drain lines.) Hold the fittings together tightly for several seconds to ensure a secure fit. This check valve will prevent any water from entering the backup pump while the primary pump is in operation. Once the valve is installed, attach the supplied drain line and secure it in place.

3. Adjust the bracket that will hold the backup pump. The backup pump should be suspended in the sump pit just slightly above the main pump. If you are using a pedestal-style pump, place the backup one as low in the sump pit as possible. This will help to remove the maximum amount of water possible. On the upper portion of the bracket, you will need to position the marine battery to offset the weight of the pump. Make certain the battery is level and securely in place.

4. Connect the drain line to the backup pump outlet port. Also connect the power cables to the backup pump as well as to the marine battery. Most backup pump kits come with a battery case, but you will be required to purchase a battery separately. The cables should fit smoothly through the protective case. The battery charger cables should also fit neatly through the case. Plug in the battery charger to a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) device.

5. Test the pump to be certain it is functioning properly. Some backup systems come with signal lights as well as audio alerts to tell you when the backup system is in use. If there is a power outage, you can expect the backup system to activate as soon as the water level reaches the pre-set depth. If the pump is activated due to the failure of the primary pump, you will need to take immediate action to repair or replace the primary pump.

Tips & Warnings

• Any motor or pump is subject to failure or malfunction. For this reason, you should test your backup pump regularly. Checking the system every six months should be adequate.

• If a power outage is expected to be lengthy, you will need to make additional arrangements to power the sump pump. The battery backup has a limited power supply that will vary depending on the age of the battery and the usage demands.

References

• Battery Backup Image
• Battery Backup System