A Quick Guide on How to Install Battery Backup Sump Pump
Sump pumps are critical elements for houses in rainy regions. These pumps prevent clogging of water in the basement in case of a heavy rain or flood. Having an active sump pump in your house can help you prevent a disaster and save a considerable amount of money in case of floods. It is a good idea to go with a battery backup sump pump instead of a conventional one that derives the power from the electrical grid.
The battery sump pump will function even in case of a blackout thereby preventing the chances of flooding as written in sump pump guides. Here is a quick guide on how to install a battery backup sump pump in your basement.
Step 1: Read the Manual
It is a good idea to read the manual that comes with the sump pump. This manual will most likely have a detailed explanation on how to unpack and install the sump pump correctly. A particular type of sump pump might require additional steps for installation before you can start using it.
Step 2: Dig a Sump Pit
You might need the help of a construction specialist with a jackhammer for this step. You need to dig a small sump pit in your basement. This pit will fill up with water in case of a flood thereby activating the pump before water levels rise above a certain level. You need to dig the hole in just right so that it does not hamper the foundation of your house.
Step 3: Insert the Detection Hose into the Pit
You can now place the detection hose from the sump pump into the pit. You also need to place the float of the device into the pit which helps with the detection purpose.
Step 4: Mount the Sump Pump
It is a good idea to mount the sump pump away from the ground. Select a solid wall or a pillar for the sump pump and drill a few holes into it to mount the pump in an upright position. You should not mount the pump close to the ground since rising water can damage the electrical connections on the pump.
Step 5: Connect the Pump to a Battery
Now, you need to connect the pump to a battery for it to start working effectively. Study the manual carefully to connect the wires in the correct position. Just like the pump, you should prefer placing the battery at a certain height from the ground.
Step 6: Check the Mechanism
Once you have made all the necessary connections, it is time to check the pump. Pour some water into the sump pit and let the float rise up. This should automatically activate the pump. If it does not, you need the help of an expert to fix the circuit for the pump.
It is always a good idea to go with the help of an expert in case you are not sure of the installation mechanism. Making the wrong electrical connections might damage the battery and the pump permanently.