When disasters strike, they seem to strike altogether. You were having a stormy night with water flooding the basement then all of a sudden, the power goes out too. This is the reason why you must always have backups.
Just prevention is not enough, making sure your preventive measure works is necessary as well. In other words, when you install a sump pump in your basement to deal with the water, it’s not always enough. People usually use electric sump pumps that rely on, well, electricity! So, when the electricity goes out, so does the sump pump, flooding the basement.
What can help you in these cases is a battery backup sump pump. As you can tell from the name that it will use a battery in it to power itself up. Power outages won’t prevent the sump pump from doing its job.
You usually use these battery backup sump pumps with the main unit. Therefore, it is not easy to choose the best battery backup sump pump for your basement. In fact, there are quite a lot of features you have to consider as well.
The buying guide here will help you make the right choices. Again, the reviews of the best will give you a clear idea of what is realistically available in the market.
Top 3 Best Battery Backup Sump Pump Systems Compared
Table could not be displayed.In the below product reviews section we have covered features, pros & cons of 12 best battery backup sump pumps to make your buying decision easier.
Best Battery Backup Sump Pumps: The Reviews
1. Wayne WSS30VN – Best Battery Backup Sump Pump Combo
If the main and the battery backup sump pumps come together then you have one less thing to worry about- the compatibility between the two. Apparently, the Wayne WSS30VN is one of the best combination sump pumps that has both the primary sump pump that runs through direct electricity and a battery backup sump pump that uses a battery.
Both are quite powerful but the primary pump is definitely more powerful. In fact, it has a power of ½ HP and the backup sump pump runs on 12-volt batteries. When it comes to installing the unit- it is as easy as a breeze.
You will find the instructions and the connections quite straightforward. For the most part, the unit already comes assembled. Both the pumps are quite fast, the primary pump with its speed of 5100 GPH and the battery backup sump pump with its speed of 2900 GPH.
What you may not like is the controls on the sump pump as it is not placed at the best place (Right above the battery section). Again, at times the battery backup system does not turn on. This can cause huge problems as when the power goes out, the unit will not serve one of its main purposes- however, it has only happened rarely.
Another problem people face with this unit is with the alarm system. Apparently, the alarm does not last for long and it is quite feeble. So, people usually do not even hear it when the pump completes or starts its task.
Apart from all these, the unit is well-built with cast iron and epoxy coated steel. It is something that will last through the humidity and the years. On top of it all, the unit offers good value for the price.
- Very easy to install.
- It has good power- both the main and backup pump.
- The speed is decent as well.
- The float works great.
- Great quality build that is meant to last.
- The backup is efficient and works on time.
- Good value for the money.
- The alarm system is a bit weak.
- The controls may be placed at an inconvenient place.
>>>WAYNE WSS30VN Combination Sump Pump Review<<<
2. PumpSpy PS2000 – Best Battery Backup Sump Pump with Wifi
If you thought that battery backup sump pumps and the internet could never come together then you are about to be proved wrong. In fact, the PumpSpy PS200 is a sump pump, a backup one, that actually connects to the Internet. The name is quite justified in the sense as well.
In fact, this unit can monitor the state of the main sump pump as well. Now, the question is how does it connect to the main pump? All you have to do is that the main sump pump is connected to 120-volt power supply. Then, you will find color-coded ports and connections to connect the battery backup sump pump to the main sump pump.
It is very much like solving an easy puzzle and you will enjoy installing this unit. The battery backup sump pump is quite powerful for its nature with a 0.5 HP power. Furthermore, it has a flow rate of 3000 GPH which is quite fast as well.
Apart from that, you can connect it to the internet to see its battery status, to get alerts when it is on or off, to see the condition of the main pump as well. Spying well, isn’t it? However, you may find it a bit frustrating at first.
You have to register and sign in and do a lot more to connect the pump to the internet and get the services. However, the interface has improved over the years now you do not have to sign in for daily use.
This is a unit that has been built to last. It has the epoxy build to protect it from the water to some extent. Furthermore, it is quite waterproof as well. It works when you need it to work- right when the power goes out.
The unit is quite expensive but for all that it offers. It’s worth it.
- Very easy to set up.
- The unit connects to the internet.
- It makes it very easy for you to monitor the performance of the pump.
- Well-built enough to last the rough conditions.
- Works when it is needed to work.
- Connecting it to the internet is not that easy.
- A bit expensive.
3. WAYNE BGSP50 – Best Submersible Sump Pump With Battery Backup
Wayne is quite a popular name in the sump pump business and for good reason. In fact, it makes most of the best sump pumps out there. This BGSP50 is another example of Wayne quality.
It comes with two submersible AC and DC sump pumps. When the power goes out, the battery powered sump pump gets to work right away. The unit has a built-in alarm but the alarm does not really do that much of a good job as it is quite weak.
However, this sump pump is very easy to set up. It pretty much comes fully assembled all you have to do is drop it in the box and connect the necessary pipes to it. And, you are ready!
The main sump pump is quite powerful along with the battery backup system, amazing you with its capacity as well. In fact, the battery backup pump can pump water up to 11,000 gallons which is equal to the size of a swimming pool in one charge!
The problem with the battery is related to the way it gets charged. Apparently, it keeps getting charged even when it has been fully charged – this leads to the battery not lasting for long and higher maintenance costs.
Other than that, the float switch is a good one as it poses almost no trouble. The transition from DC to AC or AC to DC is very smooth. Also, the unit is built quite well and meant to last. You can totally rely on Wayne quality. But, yes, this one along with its WiFi connectivity sending you all kinds of information is quite expensive.
- Quite easy to set up.
- Wifi connectivity makes it very user-friendly.
- The transition between the two sump pumps is very smooth.
- Quite powerful and fast.
- Great quality build.
- Good float switch.
- Very expensive.
- The alarm system is horrible.
- The battery gets charged even when it is fully charged.
4. Wayne ESP25 Upgraded 12-Volt Battery – Best Sump Pump With Battery Backup
Want a battery backup sump pump that will last? Then, this Wayne ESP25 sump pump may be of some use to you as it has a solid build with just the right materials. In fact, it has an epoxy coating with a cast-iron base. No plastic in the construction assures you that will be nothing that can break.
When it comes to power, it does what a backup pump will do. In fact, it has a speed of 2900 GPPH. This is decent for a battery backup sump pump. When it comes to installing the unit, you will have to do so carefully. It is very easy to install when you do it mindfully. The discharge pipes may confuse you a bit.
Other than all that, what you may not like is how the battery backup system resides in it and the placement of the control panel. Apparently. The battery is kept in a way that it seems it will burst out at any moment. Furthermore, the control panel is on the top of the battery cover.
What you will like is the LED display that gives you updates on what the condition of the battery backup sump pump is. This is quite useful. The unit has the alarm system to notify you of its activities as well.
It is quite compatible with most primary sump pumps as long as it matches the voltage. Finally, you get it at an affordable price too. So, the value it offers is quite satisfactory.
- Well-built with materials that will last.
- It has a good capacity as a backup.
- Works well in times of need.
- The float switch is efficient.
- It offers good value for the price.
- The LED display is very useful.
- The battery backup system enclosure and the control panel are not designed very well.
>>>WAYNE ESP25 Battery Backup Sump Pump Review<<<
5. Zoeller 508-0006 Aquanot – Best Preassembled Backup Sump Pump
Want a sump pump that makes sure that each of its parts is backed up well? Then, this Zoeller Aquanot 508 battery backup pump may be what you need in your basement. Apparently, it comes with the main sump pump along with a battery backup unit. Both the sump pumps use a voltage of 115 volts- you could say this is the configuration of the units.
When it comes to installing the unit, you may not be able to do it all alone as there are many things you need to take care of. Firstly, the pipes and other parts may need you to do some plumbing and making holes in your basement. So, you can guess what kind of work is needed.
Other than all that, both these sump pumps are quite powerful with good motors. The build is great too and will not give in to rust or corrosion. The battery is placed in a nice case.
You will know how the sump pump is doing reading the LED display. It has an alarm system as well. What you may face a bit of trouble with is the primary sump pump’s durability. Apparently, in a few cases, the primary sump pump stopped turning on after a few years, just like that.
So, there are the durability issues. Other than that, the float switch and other parts of the unit work quite efficiently. The combined price is quite reasonable as well if the unit lasts for years.
- A sump pump that has good safety measures and protection.
- Good battery life and protection.
- Quite powerful and fast.
- Efficient float switch and parts.
- Reasonable price.
- Quite convenient to use.
- It may need some work to set up.
- The primary sump pump may stop working.
6. Liberty Pumps PC457-441 – Best Battery Backup Submersible Sump Pump
Want a powerful sump pump that will not disappoint you when disasters hit? Then, this Liberty Pumps with both a primary sump pump and a battery backup one may be great choices for you. Apparently, the primary sump pump has a power of ½ HP and the battery backup sump pump has a speed of 44 GPM (Gallon Per Minute).
Both of these combined in separately keep your basement dry in any kind of water disaster. Furthermore, they are a breeze to set up. The size of the discharge pipes is standard and it is quite long as well. Thus, you won’t face any kind of trouble.
While the unit has a great, sturdy aluminum base and builds that does not give in to rust or breakages easily, it does not have the best quality impeller. The impeller may corrode with time. And, that is about the only thing you may have trouble with.
Other than that, the battery does a great job of supplying power and also keeping itself safe. It has a five-stage charging method that keeps it safe by only charging it when necessary.
The price of this set is quite reasonable too. In the end, you get amazing value.
- Both sump pumps are very powerful.
- Quite easy to set up.
- The battery backup works great.
- The build is of great quality.
- Very reasonable price for two pumps.
- The impeller may corrode.
7. Zoeller 508-0005 Aquanot 508 – Best Submersible Sump Pump With Battery Backup System
Yet another great battery backup sump pump by Zoeller. Apparently, this one comes with am LCD screen that gives you a better idea about where you actually are and where the sump pump is. The unit is moderately powerful running on 12 volts.
You can set this unit up easily at first. Because most of it comes assembled anyway as a battery backup system. However, with time, you may face one problem.
The discharge pipes and other attachments may get a bit loose. Apparently, the instructions themselves say that you have to attach these parts tightly. Even after doing so you may find them getting loose and you will have to resort to DIY methods to solve this problem.
Other than that, the unit is built well with aluminum seal pocket and the cooling plate. So, yes, it will not overheat easily. Other than that, the battery case protects the battery well- both from water, overcharging and overheating.
You can really rely on this unit for safety. The motors pump the water at a moderately good pace too. While it may not be the fastest, it does deal with the problem well. The float switch works well too and gets activated when necessary.
As a single battery backup sump pump unit with its performance and durability, this is reasonably priced. You may consider drilling a weep hole to prevent clogs if you face similar kinds of problems. But, in most cases, people do not really need one.
- Quite easy to set up.
- It is quite powerful and fast.
- It protects itself from overheating and overcharging well.
- Really well-built.
- The battery does a great job and so does the switches in charge.
- Reasonable pricing.
- The pipes or parts may come loose.
8. Superior Pump 92910 12V Battery Backup Submersible Sump Pump
If you want the battery backup sump pump to act just like a backup then this Superior pump 92910 will probably be able to keep you happy. Apparently., it works just as a replacement unit and it is not the fastest, not even close. But, if your basement finds it suitable for itself then it will work as a very efficient unit.
In fact, it has a speed of 1380 GPH. Not the best right? However, it just can be for your basement! Apart from that, it has a vertical float switch that does not fail. But the problem you may face is when installing the unit.
Don’t get us wrong, the unit is very easy to install. If you do not even follow the instructions that come with it, you can set it up in minutes. However, if you do follow the instructions you may find a few loopholes, easily fixable though.
This battery backup sump pump has discharge pipes of nice sizes. Apparently, it supports the flow of large volumes of water. It has a tough thermoplastic construction which rules out the possibility of both rust and corrosion. Other than that, the long cord also helps it in doing its job in the best possible way.
On top of it all, this backup sump pump is quite affordable compared to others. You could put it in the budget-friendly list but it does not fall back in case of quality. This is a unit built to last.
- A budget-friendly unit.
- Not the faster nor the most powerful but just with the appropriate capacities.
- Very well-built and meant to last.
- It protects itself well.
- Easy to install.
- The float switch works well.
- The LCD display keeps you aware of whatever is going on.
- The alarm system does a great job too.
- The battery is kept in a nice case.
- The installation instructions may not be very clear.
9. Zoeller 507-0005 Basement Sentry Battery Backup Sump Pump
Zoeller seems to be ruling here, doesn’t it? Apparently, it is back again with the 507-0005 unit. This is yet another battery backup sump pump that keeps itself really well-protected.
In fact, the battery is kept in a case that will not let water in. Then, the battery also has overcharge and overheat protection. So, you will enjoy a long battery life. It runs on 12 volts so the power you get from the motor will be quite substantial as well.
However, it won’t be very great at lifting the water to great heights. If your basement lies really low then this battery backup sump pump may not be the one for you. But if the height it is required to cover is not much then it can do quite a good job.
Apart from that, the 10-amp battery recharger works well too and so does the float. There is another concern when you have to install the unit. Apparently, it does not always have all the part that you would expect to be connected, connected to it.
Above all that, this unit is priced quite reasonably as well. You will find that it lasts quite a while.
- Quite a compact unit.
- Very efficient in its job.
- The battery is well protected so is the whole unit.
- It will last a while.
- The float switch is very efficient.
- Good for basements that do not have to cover a long height.
- Good value for the money.
- If you have to cover a really high-water height then this won’t do so well.
- The assembly may be a bit hard.
10. Liberty Pumps 441 Emergency Battery Backup Sump Pump System
If you own a 120 Volt primary sump pump in your house then this Liberty Pumps 441 Battery backup sump pump may be the right choice for you. With its 12-volt high output nature, it can deal with the mess in your basement easily.
The unit is usually easy to install as long as you have the right base to put it on. If you do not, you will have to make a few difficult changes and moves to get it installed right. You may have to drill a hole in it to prevent airlocks for the best.
Other than that, this unit connects to most discharge pipes, you are safe that way. The battery will be in a case so you do not have to worry about battery life much- it will really last. Moreover, the switch it comes with does a great job.
The flow of the water will amaze you- you may not even be expecting such flow from a backup unit. The control panel is quite straightforward and easy to use too.
While the price is alright based on the quality of the build, you may find it a bit expensive if you consider the capacity.
- It offers a good flow of water.
- It is quite well-built and meant to last.
- The battery has good power and is well-protected.
- The check valve and the switch work really well.
- The alarm works great but in general, the unit is quiet.
- The installation may not be the easiest.
- It may be a bit too expensive.
11. Basepump HB1000-PRO – Best Water Powered Backup Sump Pump
If you need the backup sump pump to handle large volumes of water then this Basepump sump pump may be the right one for you. In fact, it offers a higher flow than most other backup pumps flawlessly. What’s great about this pump is that it does not even use a battery to pump.
The power goes out and it has its own mechanism to get to work. You do not have to go beyond your way to maintain this unit. It is capable of pumping water to a great height as well. The speed is great at 10 GPM with a pressure of 150 PSI maximum.
Apart from that, the unit is quite easy to install. Overall, this unit is very convenient to use. It is quite safe to use with its dual check valves, alarms, brass shutoff valve, etc. You can rely on this unit for both quality and performance. But you do have to pay more for all the benefits.
- It offers a very good flow of water.
- It is quite easy to install.
- Batteries are not required.
- No maintenance required.
- Very safe to use.
- Reliable and durable.
- Quite expensive.
12. Pump Sentry 822 PS – Best Battery Unit For A Battery Backup Sump Pump
Do not want a whole sump pump but a battery backup to power your existing sump pump? Then this Pump Sentry 822 PS Emergency power is an only battery backup for the existing sump pump. The main thing that should concern you, in this case, is whether you can connect it easily to your existing sump pump.
Yes, luckily you can as this one comes with a number of connecting options. Furthermore, it holds a lot of power and works very efficiently. Charging when the power is there and providing when it’s not.
You won’t come home to a flooded basement with this unit in the house. However, one problem you may face is that the unit keeps overcharging- which may lead to ultimate battery failure someday.
Apart from that, it is quite expensive.
- Quite easy to set.
- Easy to connect to a sump pump.
- It offers good power.
- Works efficiently.
- Very expensive.
- It overcharges.
Best Battery Backup Sump Pump: The Buying Guide
Here are a number of things that you have to consider when buying a battery backup sump pump. Check this article to know more about how a battery backup sump pump works.
The size and compatibility of the sump pump
You probably already have one sump pump that is connected to the power source. Now, you want this battery backup sump pump to be small. Well, honestly, the backup one can at best be of the same size as the main, never bigger.
Therefore, the size matters and you want it to be small while offering you no lack of power. Another important consideration is the specification or configuration of the backup sump pump. As you will be using it with another and will have a specific base to set it on- you have to make sure that the unit is compatible with what you are setting it up.
For example, consider the voltage required, the cables and connections that will make it work in the right manner. So that when one goes out, the backup sump pump comes to life right away.
The Power of the Backup Sump Pump
A battery backup sump pump won’t be as powerful as the main one. However, it is best if the power of the pump lies somewhere really close. Because the strong storms or floods that cause the power outages need a lot of power form the backup sump pump to deal with the mess it creates.
You will usually find the power mentioned in Horsepower units. The more the power, the stronger the backup sump pump will be. Since the backup sump pump will have to pump the water to a certain height, you need the power to be higher if your basement is the situation at a very lower level.
Therefore, choose from among the ¼, 3/4, 1/3 and ½ Horsepower units. As they usually do a good job for any basement. But, yes, consider how much power you will be needing specifically as well.
The Flow Rate of the Backup Sump Pump
This is where the speed and capacity of the backup sump pump really comes into consideration. In fact, the flow rate is usually measured in GPH which means Gallons Per Hour. Apparently, the higher the value, the faster the unit will be.
Also, it will be able to push water up vertically at a faster and easier pace. In this case the size of the discharge pipe or tube matters as well. The wider the pipe, the more GPH will be needed for the pump to send the water upwards.
While a higher gph is always appealing, you should choose only what is suitable for your purpose. Because a higher GPH will definitely put more pressure on the backup sump pump and maybe cause its early death. Therefore, only look for what you need and what you will be satisfied with.
Furthermore, some basements and their structure do not support the higher gph either.
The Construction of the Backup Sump Pump
A sump pump whether submersible or pedestal, will deal with a lot of water and humidity. Therefore, it needs to be very robust. It cannot give in to rust or corrosion. Unfortunately, most do give in to rust over time.
You will find battery backup sump pumps being made of three main materials-
- Cast iron
- Stainless steel
- Plastic
Now, cast iron is the best option despite being heavy. This is because cast iron is very robust and will support higher powers and heavy-duty usage.
On the other hand, steel does great too. However, both cast iron and steel need a better coating over it. Or else, you know what it will give in to- rust. As for plastic, there are no worries about rust.
Plastic is cheaper too. But they are not as high quality. Unless they are of the best grade, they will break easily. Let’s not forget the negative environmental effect of plastic either.
In the end, it is up to you and your preferences what you choose to have as the material of the backup sump pump.
The Battery
Since you are buying a battery backup sump pump, the battery itself is a huge consideration. What kind of battery will you be using?
Apparently, there are batteries that get recharges when the power is still there. You want a battery that will automatically charge and then offer its service for hours to come. Furthermore, you need to make sure that the battery has enough power in it to support all the actions of the backup sump pump.
You should not have to replace the battery too soon. Most battery backup sump pumps have a rechargeable battery. You usually have to buy the battery separately. So, make sure that the battery is not too expensive as you will have to replace it at times in the future.
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery is the best type of battery for a sump pump due to it’s technological advancement, deep cycle feature and longevity. There are 3 types of AGM batteries –
- Maintenance-Free Battery will give you peace of mind, requiring less attention and prolonged operation.
- Marine Batteries are more reliable, though they require constant maintenance and water.
- Wet Cell Batteries should be avoided in sump pump as they are prone to damage and explosion. They are more suitable for automobiles to jump start.
AGM Batteries usually have a life span of 7 to 10 years.
Other Features of The Backup Sump Pump
You may want many other helpful features in the battery backup sump pump you are buying. Firstly, what most people want is an alarm system. Apparently, this alarm system will let you know when the risk is high. It will let you know that the sump pump is doing its job well.
Apart from that, you may look for portability features. Sometimes you do not use a backup sump pump only to keep it in the basement. So, you can move it around since it has a battery and you can use it wherever you want. A handle, a lighter weight, etc. are essentials for a portable sump pump.
Apart from all these, various battery backup sump pumps come with various features. You just have to figure out what you want and look for that particular feature.
The Float Switch in the Backup Sump Pump
The float switch along with the impeller is quite important parts in a sump pump. All of them usually have a similar way of working and without the float switch working properly the whole sump pump kind of becomes useless. That is why you not only have to check the design of the float switch but also the quality of it.
Most often people face problems like the float switch breaking or the impeller coming out loose. Therefore, check that they are in place and they are attached perfectly.
Best Battery Backup Sump Pump: The Benefits
Why should you get a backup sump pump while you have the main one to back you up in the first place? Here is why.
- Safe during power outages: In case of the primary sump pump failure due to a power outage, it is the battery backup pump that you will see yourself looking at. Or else you will go to the basement unaware of what you will face. Let us make you aware by telling you that you will face a flooded basement without a backup sump pump when power outages occur.
- Keeps check on the main: Most battery backup systems are designed in a way that they work when the main sump pump stops working. It does not always have to be the case of a power outage. The battery backup will get its cue to automatically switch and start working right when the main sump pump shows up with trouble. Furthermore, with an alarm system in the backup, you will know that it has started working and that something may be wrong with the main sump pump.
- The Versatility: Your basement may not be the only place that needs a sump pump. If you are using a battery powered sump pump backed up by other portable features then you can take out the sump pump from sump pit to deal with problems in other locations. This has always been the charm of batteries – light-weighted portability.
- A Lower Price: Since it is usually a backup and of lesser power, these units are usually cheaper than the heavy-duty ones. Therefore, you can easily buy one for a greater experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of maintenance is required for a battery backup sump pump?
The maintenance is quite basic for sump pump battery backup. Firstly, you have to make sure the battery is working properly and replace it when it’s dead. Secondly, you will have to check the connections from time to time to see if everything is in place. If it’s not you will have to fix or replace it.
How much water can a backup sump pump remove?
Most backup sump pumps will remove an average of 1,800 to 2,000 GPH at a 10-foot lift, which means they can pump that much water to a height of 10 feet, which is the typical height necessary to remove water from below a basement to the ground level.
In conclusion
Buying a battery backup sump pump despite having a primary sump pump may feel like a big deal for you- what an expenditure! However, you are making the right decision buying one as you would not have thought about it if you were not facing serious troubles. All you have to do now is consider everything and make the right choice.
Well, our top pick for the best sump pump with battery backup system is the Wayne WSS30VN. The brand name has a lot to do with its quality and it does not disappoint, Furthermore, it is powerful and fast while also being easy to install. Now, it’s up to you to make a choice.