If the sump pump in your home runs all the time, or if you find that it is needed to prevent water from seeping in following a storm, then it is critical that you have a pumping system that is capable of operating 24/7. At the very least, you should have a second pump on hand that is ready to be installed if the primary pump should fail. Installing this backup ahead of time offers additional protection. However, if the power goes out, regardless of the number of pumps or backups, the pumping stops.

If you have installed an emergency generator, the sump pump circuit may be one that you can connect to the generator. There are two other options for backup pumping. A battery back up can be added to power the existing pump, or a separate pump and battery backup system can be installed. These systems use either a wet-cell battery that needs periodic maintenance or a dry-cell rechargeable battery. A controller/charger monitors the dry-cell battery’s condition and charges the battery when required. Depending on the system, it may be capable of providing up to 10 hours of pumping. Most backup systems also have alarms to indicate when they kick in. Installing a separate water alarm to indicate when the water level is about to overflow the pit is also advisable-just in case the backup system also fails.

Another backup option is a system that uses water pressure from a garden hose as its power source. The amount of water it will pump varies greatly depending on the water pressure supplied to it. Note that if you have an onsite well system, this type system, will not work when electric power is lost.

Having a battery backup does no good, however, if the pump itself doesn’t work. Sump pumps are subject to malfunction due to corrosion and blockage. Unstable pumps can also fall over, preventing the float that activates the pump from operating properly. To make sure the pump is ready to go when needed, all sump pumps should be pulled from the pit, and cleaned and checked at least once a year. Also check to make sure the discharge line terminates at a suitable point away from the foundation and isn’t contributing to water seepage problems.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue.