A backup sump pump or backup power source for the main sump pump is something many professionals recommend. Doing so has many benefits, of course, and can save you a lot of money in the long run. That said, the precise nature of these benefits will depend on the type of sump pump you have.
Main-Powered Pump
There are many benefits to having your sump pump connected to your property’s main electricity supply. First and foremost, sump pumps of this nature have a longer lifespan than battery-powered alternatives. They are also very low maintenance and can operate autonomously in many cases. This makes them ideal for larger homes or homes where accessing the pump on short notice may be hard.
However, the main drawback for this kind of sump pump is the fact that it cannot be relied upon when a storm causes a blackout. If there is a power outage in your area, a main-powered sump pump will stop working altogether. Installing a backup pump or backup power supply is an easy way to address this. Many backup pumps or power supplies will be set up to activate when the main power fails, making the transition relatively seamless.
Battery Powered Pump
Battery-powered main sump pumps have the benefit of not being affected by power shortages or blackouts in and around your home. This is why many backup sump pumps are battery-powered as a matter of course. However, there are many homeowners who choose to use a battery-powered pump to just support their main sump pump.
One of the main downsides to battery-operated sump pumps is the fact that their batteries can run out and will need to be replaced over time. This can be incredibly inconvenient, especially if it fails in the wettest months of the year. However, investing in a backup battery or power source can address this problem effectively. Likewise, regular maintenance and inspections should alert you to a failing battery before it becomes an active problem.