Battery backup sump pumps can be your only line of defense against water damage in situations where your main pump breaks down, or you are caught in a violent weather event such as a hurricane, without electricity. Its just as powerful as your main pump, but will turn on automatically under the right circumstances. It isn’t recommended to use battery backup pumps for extended periods of time, as the battery will need replacing eventually. Here a few steps to properly operate your backup pump.

Know How Your Sump Pump is Powered. Battery backup pumps are the contingency plan in the event the main pump breaks down or can’t handle increasing amounts of water. Most devices automatically turn on in these circumstances, but older models may not have this technology. Check your owner’s manual to see if your backup pump is automatic, and if not, learn how to activate it. Most battery pumps can also be powered by AC while used as a supporting pump when the main unit is being overcome with water, and it shouldn’t discharge its battery while on AC power.

Be safe around electricity. Never walk on wet floors without turning the power off first. If you can’t get to your shutoff, because its in your wet basement, call an electrician immediately. Never let your pump become exposed to snow or rain, for increased electrical safety. When you remove the plug from the socket, tug on the plug, and never on the cord. Pulling on electrical cords can result in sparks. Also, avoid using extension cords. Secondly, don’t use any attachments that aren’t recommended by the manufacturer, because this may cause fire or shock. If your sump pump has a computer control box, don’t operate it in the event it becomes damaged. Also, never handle your unit if your hands are wet, as you run the risk of electrocution. Be sure all plugs and batteries are disconnected and the power is completely off before cleaning and performing maintenance of your pump.

Choose a battery. Before letting your backup pump go on its own, ensure it has a fully charged battery. A car or marine battery isn’t ideal as both of these batteries require occasional use to work when you need them to. Many pumps have batteries that are guaranteed to lose no charge due to lack of use.

Turn it on, then let it go. New models of the backup pumps will automatically turn on when they are needed. Make sure if your unit doesn’t have this feature, that you turn your unit on when it is needed. Many of the backup models that don’t automatically turn on feature a smoke alarm style feature that rings a loud warning when its time to turn the pump on.

Following these steps will ensure that your battery backup pump installation is not only easy, but safe.