As a homeowner, safeguarding your basement from flooding may not always be top of mind — until it happens. A soaked basement can wreak havoc on your property, damaging the foundation, furniture and stored items. The costs to repair water damage and restore your home can be overwhelming, not to mention the health risks associated with mold that often follow.
To protect your property and avoid the potential stress that comes with flooding, you can use a smart backup pump. The device provides intelligent and reliable solutions that ensures your home is shielded when your primary primary pump fails or when the power goes out.
What Is a Smart Backup Sump Pump and How Does It Work?
A smart backup sump pump is a secondary system designed to take over when your main device fails due to power outages, mechanical issues or overwhelming amounts of water. It provides an additional layer of protection by sensing when water levels rise above a certain point or when the primary pump isn’t working properly. Once it detects the issues, the backup pump automatically activates to continue removing excess water from the sump pit.
What makes these pumps smart is their ability to connect to mobile apps, allowing you to monitor the system remotely. With real time alerts and notifications sent directly to your phone, you’ll know exactly when your backup pump is active or if there’s an issue. This technology provides greater convenience and a higher level of reliability even when you’re away from home.
Why Do You Need a Smart Sump Pump Backup?
A smart backup system is a wise investment, especially if you live in an area prone to heavy rainfall, flooding or power outages. Here’s why you may need the device:
- To protect against power outages: One of the main reasons for pump failures is a power outage during a storm — the exact moment when you need it most. Without backup, water will start pooling in your basement. A smart pump mitigates this risk by using an independent power source to continue working even when the grid is down.
- In case of unexpected failure: Even the most reliable sump pumps can fail due to wear and tear, mechanical malfunctions or improper installations. A smart backup takes over instantly when this happens, reducing the chances of water damage.
- To reduce the load on your primary pump: During intense rainstorms, your primary pump may become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of water. This can happen when the device’s capacity is exceeded or it isn’t fast enough to keep up with the water entering your home. A smart sump pump provides additional capacity and ensures water is pumped out.
- If the float switch becomes stuck: The float switch signals your device to turn on and off based on the water level. If the float switch becomes stuck, the pump won’t activate even when the water levels rise. A smart device ensures water is still being pumped out.
- When the exit pipe is clogged: If the discharge pipe becomes clogged, your main pump might struggle to expel water, leading to buildup. A backup system can help by removing water and reducing the risk of flooding until the clog is addressed.
- When your pump is old: If your primary pump is older or has been used for several years, it may be more prone to failure. As pumps age, their components wear out, increasing the risk of breakdowns. Installing a secondary device can safeguard your basement.
Benefits of a Smart Backup Sump Pump
An intelligent smart pump backup system goes beyond simple emergency protection. It provides additional perks that contribute to your home’s long-term safety.
1. Reliable and Provides Real-Time Alerts
Most homeowners don’t realize there’s an issue with their sump pump until it’s too late. By then, the basement may already be flooded. The system sends notifications to your phone or device when it detects any issues, and you’ll receive alerts if the backup pump is activated. Real-time monitoring allows you to stay ahead of problems and prevent major water damage.
2. Prevents Mold
Since a smart backup system can keep your basement dry during power outages or pump failures, it can minimize moisture buildup. Excess moisture creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive. Mold usually develops within 24-48 hours after water exposure and can worsen allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions. Despite the potential health impact, prolonged mold exposure can deteriorate wood, drywall and insulation, leading to structural damage. A reliable backup system can protect your health and the integrity of your home.
3. Can Extend the Primary Pump’s Life Span
Heavy rain or flooding can overwhelm the primary pump because of the volume of water it needs to remove. Primary sump pumps that are constantly overworked are more likely to fail, leading to costly repairs or replacement. Having backup supports the primary system, reducing its workload and wear and tear.
4. Long-Term Cost Savings
The cost of flood damage, mold remediation and repairs to your basement can quickly add up, far outweighing the initial investment in a reliable backup system. Even a small flood can cause thousands of dollars in damage, not to mention the potential loss of valuable items stored in the basement. An intelligent sump pump saves you from these significant financial burdens by preventing flooding and water damage.
5. Easy Installation
Many smart pumps are user-friendly and may be installed without professional assistance, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts to save on installation costs. Some devices come with straightforward installation instructions, often designed to integrate with your existing system.
6. Peace of Mind
Knowing that your basement is protected against flooding can alleviate stress. The threat of flooding may cause constant worry, especially for those living in areas prone to heavy rainfall or storms. The peace of mind that comes from having a dependable backup system means you can focus on spending time with family, pursuing hobbies or simply enjoying your home.
Types of Smart Backup Sump Pumps
Backup systems come in a few different types, each suited to specific needs.
- Battery-powered backup sump pump: Battery-powered systems are the most common type of backup sump pump. These run on absorbed glass mat (AGM) or deep cycle gel batteries, so they’ll continue to work even when the power goes out. The life expectancy of these batteries typically ranges from three to five years, but their longevity depends on usage.
- Water-powered backup sump pumps: Water-powered backup systems use municipal water pressure. These systems don’t rely on electricity or battery, but their efficiency depends on the availability of high water pressure. They tend to have longer life spans since there are no batteries to replace.
- Smart combination sump pump: Combination systems include a primary and backup sump pump. This setup provides seamless protection, switching between the two pumps as needed. It’s especially useful for first-time homeowners looking to improve their home’s functionality or those looking to replace an aging system with a more robust solution.
Purchase an Intelligent Sump Pump From Zoeller
When it comes to safeguarding your home, you deserve a solution you can trust. Investing in an intelligent backup sump pump from Zoeller at Home means choosing quality and dependability. Our devices have undergone rigorous testing, so they perform reliably when you need them most. Our features provide continuous monitoring to notify you of any emergencies, giving you much-needed peace of mind. Purchase an intelligent backup sump pump from your nearest retailer today.
