1. Basement Watchdog BWSP 1730
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Basement Watchdog BWSP 1730
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/3 HP
- Flow rate: 2,500 GPH @ 0’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 60 hours
- Discharge size: 1.5”
- Battery compatibility: Any maintenance or maintenance-free AGM battery
- Cord length: 10’
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Warranty: 2 years
It is your best solution to keep floods from happening even when the power is out, when the main pump or float fails, and even benefit from extra pumping capacity when the situation asks for it as
it provides up to 60 hours of battery life, incommensurably more than its competitors. It pumps 2500 GPH at 0 feet lift and 1730 GPH at 10 feet lift.
The 1.6-amp smart charger provides a quick and adequate charge as needed. As a cautionary measure, it features a fluid sensor that monitors the fluid levels to keep an eye out for dangerous shifts in the chemistry of the battery, and it even features a dual float switch.
The control panel is fashioned in a user-friendly manner, and it detects any irregularities that appear, sounding an alarm to make you aware of the situation and pinpointing problems and solutions. It even features a USB port that allows you to connect to the Basement Watchdog Connect Module that gives you real-time alerts via e-mail, text, or through the app to let you know when any situation that requires your attention arises. It automatically starts to run when a power outage occurs, when the water flow exceeds the capacity of the main pump, or when the main pump fails.
Its compact size allows you to install it in narrow spaces with no trouble. In terms of compatibility, it works with all AGM batteries, so there are no limitations from this point of view. Woefully, while it does come with the battery box, know that the battery is not included with the acquisition, so you have to make the purchase separately, which translates to an extra cost. Furthermore, the manufacturer backs it with a lengthy 2-year warranty.
PROS
- Provides up to 60 hours of battery life
- A special sensor constantly monitors the fluid levels
- Pump 2500 GPH at 0 feet of lift
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
VERDICT
As it provides up to 60 hours of runtime, it’s easy to understand why this is your best option, ensuring the basement won’t flood due to its lengthy operational span.
2. Wayne WSS30V
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Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/2
- Flow rate: 3,840 GPH @ 10’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 26 hours
- Discharge size: 1/2”
- Battery compatibility: 40 amp/hour or 75 amp/hour deep cycle batteries
- Cord length: 9’
- Weight: 24 lbs.
- Warranty: 5 years
In this review, we will look at the WSS30V, a model that does not only deliver amazing performance but that comes at a reasonable price that makes it appealing to all people regardless of their budget. Performance-wise, it’s one of the most impressive models that you will encounter as
it delivers a maximum flow rate of 5100 gallons per hour, and a flow rate of 3840 gallons per hour at a 10-foot discharge lift.
Due to the integrated vertical float switch that features a leak-free polypropylene float, it’s capable of an automatic operation. The innovative top suction design that it boasts prevents airlock from happening, and it drastically reduces clogging. When the DC pump starts running with the help of the 12V accumulator, an audible alarm announces the homeowner of the occurrence.
Other audible alarms that it sends off when operating include a low battery alarm, a high water level alarm, and a reverse polarity alarm. The LED indicator lights announce you when events such as a power fault, a full charge, a partial charge, and a low charge are occurring. Moreover, it is backed up by an impressive 5-year warranty against defects in parts and manufacturing.
PROS
- Top suction design minimizes clogging while filtering out all debris
- Can run continuously on a full battery for up to 26 hours
- 9-foot long cord ensures convenience when it comes to placement
- Easy to use due to the electronic control panel it features
- Manufacturer warrants it against defects in parts and workmanship for 5 years since you purchase it
CONS
- Costly acquisition
- No way to silence the alarm
VERDICT
The Wayne WSS30V ensures clogging is reduced at a minimum, eliminating the need for interferences like vents or weep holes in the installation. It is highly efficient and easy to use, the continuous operation it provides ensuring safety won’t be an anymore.
3. Wayne ESP25
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Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/3
- Flow rate: 3,300 GPH @ 0’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 26 hours
- Discharge size: 1/2”
- Battery compatibility: 40 amp/hour or 75 amp/hour deep cycle battery
- Cord length: 6’
- Weight: 16.3 lbs.
- Warranty: 2 years
This time, the Wayne company makes an appearance in our top due to the ESP25 model that will never fail you as it switches to battery power in case there’s a power outage. Therefore, it never actually stops operating, especially seeing how
it can run for as long as 26 hours continuously when it is switched to the backup operating mode. To make your life easier, it features an adjustable reed float switch that ensures an automatic operation.
The LED indicator lights show the user when events such as low power, partial charge, full charge, and a power fault occur. To ensure that you are always kept on your feet and aware of what is happening in the basement or the area of the house that you decide to place it in, it sends off alarms when the water level rises, when the battery is low, or when the polarity reverses. Thus, you won’t have to keep your eyes peeled on the device at all times as it announces when you should inspect it.
The bottom suction plus filter feature is probably the biggest highlight of this model as it ensures superior overall performance. Additionally, the electronic control panel that it comes with makes it a dream to operate it.
PROS
- Smart charging technology ensures it can continuously run for up to 26 hours on a full charge
- Can pump out up to 3300 gallons per hour at 0 feet head
- Durable construction made with corrosion-resistant thermoplastic
- Backed by a 2-year warranty for parts and labor
- Fully submersible design enhances its efficiency
CONS
- Some customers have complained about the size of the charger/transformer, stating that over time it could slip out as it is massive
- Expensive acquisition
VERDICT
It delivers an impressive performance in terms of water removal as it can get out up to 3300 gallons per hour at 0 feet head, so the ESP25 is an acquisition you surely won’t regret making.
4. Zoeller 508-0006 Aquanot 508 ProPack53
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Zoeller 508-0006 Aquanot 508 ProPack53
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/3
- Flow rate: 2,580 GPH @ 5’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 7 hours and 30 minutes
- Discharge size: 1.5”
- Battery compatibility: 27, 29, 31 group size batteries
- Cord length: 9’
- Weight: 40.8 lbs.
- Warranty: 3 years
The case it features
accepts all group size 27, 29, and 31 batteries as the maximum dimension it can fit is 13 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 9.5 inches in height.
It features an LCD screen that ensures an intuitive operation, displaying voltage, and other useful information. As it is one of the more modern entries on the market, you can connect it to your home security alarm to be alerted when flooding occurs.
Design
The material used for the manufacture of the base is thermoplastic, which means that it is not only resistant to impact up to a point, but high or low temperatures won’t affect it either. Overheating is prevented as the system is oil-filled and hermetically sealed.
To ensure a user-friendly experience, it features LED light indicators for the system status, showing when it is charged, charging, or when it is low on juice. The intuitive buttons it features help as well, existing a button with which you can scroll through the setting selections and one that turns off the alarm.
Mention-Worthy Features and Specs
- Comes with a 9-foot long power cord.
- Features a powerful 0.33 HP motor.
- A 3-year warranty is provided for it.
Performance
The automatic operation it provides makes it a convenient option to go for, and it provides a 43 gallons per minute flow rate at 5 feet head. When it is fully charged, you are provided with up to 7.5 hours of runtime.
As the working temperature of the system ranges from 40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, you needn’t worry that the harsh conditions in the basement might affect it. Additionally, as it provides burnout protection and overcharge protection, safety and longevity are a guarantee with it.
PROS
- Comes with an automatic charger/controller which features a useful alarm in case of emergencies
- On the LCD screen, you can view information about the power status and other settings
- The box is lockable to ensure complete safety
- Features glass-filled thermoplastic vortex impellers
- Comes fully assembled, all you
CONS
- Is quite noisy
- Requires plumbing knowledge to operate correctly
VERDICT
As it comes fully assembled and ready for use, there is no hassle involved with it. Furthermore, it delivers a plethora of features, the most prominent being the alarm which alerts you when it is depleting of power or when the water levels are increasing worryingly, the danger of a flood being imminent.
5. PumpSpy Technology PS1000
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PumpSpy Technology PS1000
Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/3
- Flow rate: 3,600 GPH @ 0’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 6 hours
- Discharge size: 1.5”
- Battery compatibility: 75 amp/hour SLA battery
- Cord length: 6’
- Weight: 14.3 lbs.
- Warranty: 3 years
We start with the bad side of this acquisition, more precisely the fact that this is quite a costly investment. However, taking into account its performance and the fact that it puts at your disposal 24/7 internet monitoring for free, it’s safe to say that it is worth every cent. If you install the companion app on your smartphone, you will receive text messages or e-mails announcing the state of your pumping system in case of emergency.
This system is quite impressive performance-wise as it can get out up to 3600 gallons of water at 0 feet, and approximately 2400 gallons of water at 10 feet lift. The operating temperature span it delivers ranges from 40 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, so no matter how old or hot it gets in the basement, it won’t have any issues operating.
When the backup mode is activated, you are provided with up to 6 hours of use before it runs out of juice. It features a durable thermoplastic housing, and the 14.3-pound weight makes it a cinch to carry it whenever it’s needed. Additionally, a 3-year warranty is put at your disposal by the manufacturing company. During this period, if anything happens to the system, it will be repaired or replaced without costing you a cent.
PROS
- Free internet monitoring service included
- Removes 3600 gallons of water per hour at 0 feet lift
- Whenever an emergency arises, you are notified via e-mail or text message on your smartphone due to the companion app
- Resistant thermoplastic housing
- Manufacturer covers it against defective parts and poor workmanship for 3 years
CONS
- The battery is not included
- Some complained about customer support services
VERDICT
Failure is an issue of the past once you acquire the PS1000 as it provides automatic switching to its back-up when needed. It might not be your best selection budget-wise as it is a bit expensive, but it completely makes up for this flaw as it provides free internet monitoring 24/7.
6. Liberty Pumps 441
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Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/3 HP
- Flow rate: 2,460 GPH @ 0’ head
- Discharge size: 1.5”
- Battery compatibility: 27, 31 group size batteries
- Cord length: 8’
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Warranty: 3 years
The high output 12V submersible pump of the system ensures you won’t be faced with flooding issues anymore. As it can even serve you when the power goes out, there is no situation in which it won’t operate, so your basement will be kept water-free at all times.
It features short circuit protection to ensure long-lasting service and durability. Other mention-worthy safety-enhancing features of the system include the Solid State overload protection and over-charging protection.
It is compatible with group 27 and group 31 marine-type deep cycle batteries. It features 3 LED lights that show you what the charging status is at any moment to keep you updated with its current situation. In case there is an emergency pump operation, it will alert you visually through the LED indicators, as well as through audible means due to its alarm.
The box where you place it is made with non-corrosive polyethylene and features a lock strap to ensure it will sit in place. What delighted us is the fact that it is easy to install, the slip-on connectors being the ones that we must thank for this aspect. Furthermore, it is backed by a 3-year warranty for defective parts and faulty workmanship, so you won’t have to pay a dime for repair or replacement services when needed.
PROS
- Automatically starts its operation when the main pump fails
- Compatible with group 27 and group 31 batteries
- The box is made with non-corrosive polyethylene
- Slip-on connectors make the installation process easy
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
CONS
- Expensive acquisition
- Flimsy design as opposed to other entries
VERDICT
It is one of the more costly options on the market, but it is worth the investment as it provides a reliable operation, replacing the main pump whenever it fails without any hiccups. Thus, no power outage or defect will be able to cause the flooding of the crawl space or basement ever again.
7. Superior Pump 92900
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Specifications:
- Horsepower: 1/2
- Flow rate: 1,380 GPH @ 0’ head
- Continuous pumping on full battery: Up to 3 hours
- Discharge size: 1.5”
- Battery compatibility: 24, 27 group size batteries
- Cord length: 10’
- Weight: 12.5 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 year
A battery is not included when you purchase it, so you should know that the right types of batteries for it are 24 or 27 group size deep cycle marine batteries. The corrosion-resistant thermoplastic construction ensures that it will be by your side for a long time, so you do not have to worry that this investment might fail you after only 1-2 years of using it as this isn’t the case.
When it is switched to the backup mode, it can operate for up to 3 hours continuously. Thus, in the event of a power outage, you are ensured that a flood won’t occur. For it to be able to operate, the temperature should range from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
It features an electronic control panel that makes the operation intuitive and simple for anyone using it. It features LED indicator lights that announce when a power fault is happening and that keep you informed about the charge status.
In case the voltage is too low, it automatically turns off, so there is no need to worry about safety or durability as it is more than capable of taking care of itself. Besides, it sends off audible alarms when it is running out of power, and when the water level is high.
PROS
- LED indicator lights let you know if there is a power fault and how the charging process is going
- Great price to quality ratio – an affordable selection to go for
- Features a convenient clog-resistant impeller
- Automatically shuts off when the voltage is low
- 10-foot long cord exceeds the industry standard, making it a more convenient selection to go for
CONS
- When fully charged, it runs continuously for only about 3 hours
- It isn’t a maintenance-free system
VERDICT
Designed for increased safety in use, an aspect which is clear once you check out the automatic shut-off it boasts in case of low voltage, and a hard to beat product in terms of pricing as it is intended for those who do not have a lot of money to spare, this is our top recommendation for people who are on a budget but don’t want to sacrifice quality in performance.
Sump Pumps 101
The sump pump has the role to remove the water that accumulates in the sump basin which is usually found in basements. There are a lot of situations that lead to the accumulation of dangerous water levels in the basin, the most common being drains of the waterproofing system in the basement, water that funnels into the basin, or even rain and natural groundwater in case the basement is situated below the water table level. Thus, it is easy to understand the pump’s importance as it prevents a disastrous flood from occurring.
Seeing just how important it is, it was inevitable for variations to appear. This is where battery back-up models come in, being the preferred choice of modern people as they offer continuous operation. On this market, you will encounter two types – DC and AC/DC models.
When the AC power is out, the backup system is going to switch to DC battery power to prevent flooding. While the power is on, it will automatically use the AC wall current to not deplete the accumulator uselessly. When making the purchase, another aspect you must consider is the type of battery the sump system is compatible with. Most commonly, deep cycle batteries and lead-acid batteries are used in these systems, but this is something you can easily check by looking at the spec sheet.
What you need to keep in mind is that this is an investment you must make if you want to spare yourself of the hassle involved with a potential flood, the system guaranteeing that the basement and all the belongings you place in it will not ever fall victim to this dreaded occurrence.
Is It an Acquisition Worth Making?
- It Works Regardless of the Water Supply: There is another type of sump pump that people use, more precisely the water-powered type. Unlike water-powered models, backup systems do not rely on the water supply to work but rather on AC and DC, which is a good thing because if they were to rely on it, their operation would be drastically limited.
- Easy to Install: Another major strong point is the fact that it is easy to install, a professional installation not being necessary. All you have to do is connect it to an existing discharge pipe or to a separate pipe, and you are done with the procedure, being able to enjoy your new purchase.
- A Power Outage Does Not Affect Its Operation: In case of a power outage, it continues to operate relying on the power provided by the accumulator. Therefore, the possibility of a flood occurring is impossible. Of course, this operation is not unlimited as the battery will be able to provide power for a limited period.
- Excellent Pumping Power: If you make the right purchase, you will get to enjoy excellent pumping power as well. A quality sump pump delivers a flow rate of up to 3000 gallons per hour or more at 10 feet of head, thus ensuring it is perfectly able to handle the incoming flow of water without a problem.
- Versatility in Use: Another main is the fact that it is a necessity for most homes, probably even yours. After all, you do not want to face the costs of draining the water out of the basement or to be forced to replace certain valuables you keep in this area of the house because they have been destroyed by water. Thus, the installation of a backup system is not optional for most as it is rather mandatory.
Buying Guide
The useful guidelines we will provide in the following help you make an acquisition that is worth the cash to ensure the product rises to expectations. Here are the tips that we provide and come in handy to ensure the product you end up with is worth the hassle:
- Check Construction Quality: It can either boast a plastic construction, a cast iron construction, or stainless steel and cast iron construction. Each build comes with its own set of advantages, so it is more of a personal preference from this point of view.
The plastic construction models are usually less expensive and they are preferred by many as they are quite durable and corrosion-resistant. These systems are ideal when a lower performance is required or when you simply do not have the budget for a more expensive option. The systems that boast a cast iron construction have more increased weight and the heat distribution is far superior. It is the added weight that allows them to stay inside the basin without moving an inch. Furthermore, the density of this material is what offers its superior heat distribution and that helps the motor run cooler, thus increasing the life of the pump.
The third kind, systems made with stainless steel and cast iron, are corrosion-resistant, they offer an excellent heat distribution, boast superior performance, and are heavy enough to stay at the bottom of the basin without moving.
- Look for Automatic Operation: What you need from it is for the operation to be as simple as possible. This is why we recommend you invest in a model with an automatic operation, more precisely one that automatically switches to using the accumulator power when a power outage occurs. It is an important element to take into consideration as you might not always be at home when the power goes out, thus not being capable to switch from AC to DC yourself.
- Invest In a Submersible Model: It needs to feature a submersible tethered float switch as the simple design promotes ease of use. Additionally, the tethered float switch allows more complex adjustability, providing a superior pumping range for turning the system on or off.
- In What Situations It Sends Off Alarms: Another important element to look into is in what situations it sends off audible alarms. Since it is installed in the basement, it is not convenient for you to have to go down and check it once every few hours to see if everything is alright. This is where the alarms shine as they will announce when it is time to check the system. When you scout the market, make sure the model you choose sends off alarms in as many situations as possible, the most important being when the battery has been depleted of power and when the water level is high.
Brands We Recommend
In every market, there are a few companies that manufacture better quality products than others. When it comes to sump pumps, the three major brands it is recommended for you to purchase from are Wayne Pumps, Zoeller, and Superior Pump.
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Wayne
Wayne is the company that probably releases the most high-end products, this being easy to see once you check out our ranking. In addition to designing and producing sump pumps, the company also produces pool, well, utility, sewage, lawn, and effluent pumps.
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Zoeller
The Zoeller brand is another name that you will stumble upon often as the dedication and passion the company puts into designing and manufacturing every product has made it a customer favorite worldwide. Being one of the most respected and renowned companies on the market, the principles and values it takes into account are quality, durability, and reliability.
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Superior Pump
What has made it become one of the biggest brands at the moment is the fact that this once small family-owned business has never strayed from its principles, trying to innovate the market with each product released and always paying attention to the quality of the products offered to customers. The hard-working employees at this company focus on even the smallest details when manufacturing the systems, ensuring the products they release are of impressive durability to not fail loyal customers who rely on them to prevent floods from occurring.
Rating Our Picks
Construction
The construction of the system is the first indicator of its durability. As you can see, there is a variety from this point of view when it comes to the models that we chose as being the best. Of course, this variety also separates them when it comes to their durability, some models being superior to others.
Battery Compatibility
For the system to be as convenient to use as possible, it must feature generous accumulator compatibility as well. As you can see, all the products in our top are compatible with more than a single type of battery, so there is enough versatility from this point of view.
Technology
In our top, two kinds of technologies appear, more precisely switch mode and smart charging. The switch-mode technology might come with its own set of impressive advantages, but it is inferior to the smart charging technology which makes the entire operation more automatic, going a lot smoother and easier.
Continuous Operation When the Accumulator Is Fully Charged
One of the most important elements to look into when making this purchase is how long the battery will deliver continuous power supply to the system. As we are aware of the importance of this aspect, we made sure for the models that are capable of providing the best operational time to receive a higher rating.
Operating Temperature
The operating temperature of the backup system shows what the favorable conditions for the product’s operation are. Thus, it is an important element to take into consideration as you would not want to be stuck with a pretentious product that fails to run when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Audible Alarms
For the product to be of truly high quality, it must announce when certain events are taking place, events you need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and safe operation. The more the better from this point of view, and as you can see, all of the models featured in our top send off alarms in certain situations.
LED Indicator Lights
The indicators come in handy as they show you how certain processes are developing, making the operation of the system easier and more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you add battery backup to an existing sump pump?
Yes, you can. Acquire the backup battery, set it up following the provided instructions, enclose the battery in a special box for insulation, make the proper connections between the backup battery and the sump pump, test the installation, and if everything is alright, then you can let the setup be. Otherwise, go over the installation process once more to check where you proceeded differently than instructed and repair your mistake.
How long do battery backup sump pumps last?
The answer to this question depends on the amount of water entering the sump basket, basically how often the pump is required to run.
Do you need a plumber to install a sump pump?
To make sure the procedure is followed through properly, it is preferable to hire a professional who has already gone through this installation task before and knows what steps to go through. When it comes to the need to hire a plumber, seeing how chances are for pumps to need to be fit or laid, the services of a plumbing expert might be needed.
Does a sump pit need to be vented?
If the sump pit is properly sealed, there is no need for venting as the gasses are sealed inside, partially venting outside anyway when the pump starts its operation.
Should I unplug my sump pump in the winter?
It is advisable to never unplug it as water can drain into the sump pump at any time of the year, even during winter. Just because snow covers everything and the ground is frozen, it might not be frozen past the bottom part of the foundation, so water can still seep in.
Conclusion
A flooded basement is the last thing any homeowner wants to come home to, but without the small detail of battery backup for the pumping system in charge of getting rid of the water, in events like a power outage, the unwanted occurrence could easily take place. Here, we rounded up your best battery backup selections and before you make up your mind, we recommend you review some options once again to get a clearer picture of what the market has best to offer.
Best Battery Back Up Sump Pump on the Market:
Basement Watchdog BWSP 1730
Likely the smartest acquisition you could make as it provides upward to 60 hours of runtime so that it passes you through a lengthy power outage with no issues, the Basement Watchdog is a mighty ally in preserving home safety and preventing basement floods. Among the upsides that make it desirable for heavy-duty applications, as well as normal residential use is the fact that it pumps at a staggering speed of 2500 GPH at a 0’ lift. Moreover, it boasts broad compatibility as it works with all maintenance and maintenance-free AGM batteries.
Editor’s Choice:
PumpSpy Technology PS1000
While the PS1000 might not be the best in terms of operational durability as it only serves you up to 6 hours when the power goes out, you can bet that it doesn’t get overwhelmed by any situation, heavy rain, and other misfortunate events not presenting a flooding danger for the basement area as it can pump upward to 3600 gallons of water per hour at 0’ head. Moreover, it is quite compact, which makes it suitable for small basins.
Best Battery Back Up Sump Pump for Small Basin:
Zoeller 508-0006 Aquanot 508 ProPack53
We cannot deny the excellence of the Aquanot 508, a product that took the market by storm as it can continuously pump the water for up to 7 and a half hours until the battery fully runs out of power. It can withstand operating in harsh environments, which is exactly what you would expect from a qualitative system, not suffering damage in case the temperature goes below 40F or over 120F. As it boasts a rather small footprint, the compact design makes it ideal for small basins where space is of the essence, and not just any pumping system fits. Furthermore, considering its durable design and impressive performance, we can say that it is reasonably priced.
Best Battery Back Up Sump Pump for the Money:
Wayne WSS30V
It might not be the cheapest option out there, but in terms of price-to-quality, it is the best, by far. Considering the wide range of features it includes, like the LED lights that indicate the system status and when major issues appear, as well as the alarm that goes off when the accumulator is no longer relied on, it is worth every cent, other systems that boast its traits and capabilities coming at much more expensive prices. Other highlights of this product include the runtime of up to 26 hours when it solely relies on the battery and the heavy-duty 3840 GPH flow rate at 10’ head.
Best Battery Back Up Sump Pump with Alarm:
Wayne ESP25
These systems come with their own sets of features, yet none of them are more useful than alarms that alert household members of important events related to the pumping system. A product that is complete with alarms for rising water levels, low battery, or the reversal of polarity, the ESP25 relieves you of having to check up on the status of the system yourself by announcing you when your attention is needed.
