9 Best Battery Backup Sump Pumps In 2024

Battery Backup Sump Pumps Compared

1. Wayne ESP25

We compiled these battery-backup sump pump reviews after thorough research and found the Wayne ESP25 to be the absolute winner. While each of the sump pumps above may be the best fit for specific situations, the Wayne ESP25 is the best battery-backup sump pump available in the market for most users.

This versatile machine is capable of driving out about 2900 gallons of water per hour at zero feet. Since sump pump battery-backup systems are intended to be installed on a raised position the ESP25 has 10 feet of lift. Plus, it creates a 12-volt charge with a 75-amp battery and is well-suited for deep cycle, maintenance-free, and marine-cycle batteries. However, batteries have to be purchased separately.

To top it all, the Wayne ESP25 is made from durable material – the body is constructed from epoxy steel, and the base from cast-iron. Unlike plastic variants, this pump will not break, and the materials used to construct it are resistant to corrosion.

Also, this battery-backup for an existing sump pump is equipped with an alarm and lights that go off every time there is a problem or when the backup gets activated. The lights also show charging levels, and there is also an indicator for the health of the attached battery.

2. Superior Pump 92910

Coming in 2^nd in our battery-backup sump pump reviews is the Superior Pump 92910, which as per our expert opinion, is the best submersible sump pump with battery backup. Superior has an exceptional track record for producing brilliant pumps and has 150+ years of experience in the industry.

If you have the Superior Pump 92910 in your house – you can be at ease even when torrential rains and storms cause power outages. The device features a 12-volt DC sump pump battery-backup system and a vertical float switch that triggers when the main pump stops working. Furthermore, it is designed to perfection with is a stainless steel shaft and a thermoplastic housing unit along with some copper parts – all are durable materials and can withstand all adversities.

The Superior Pump 92910 can seamlessly drive out water at the rate of 1,380 gallons per hour; the best part is that water can be moved up at least 25 feet. Also, this sump pump battery-backup system has an alarm feature that goes off every time there is a change in the system – you also have the option to mute it if required. Best of all, it has a reasonable price point; you get a lot more for what you pay.

3. WAYNE BGSP50 Guardian

Coming in strongly at number three is the best basement sump pump with battery backup – WAYNE BGSP50 Guardian, a system known for its outstanding power and water draining capabilities. You have the option to power this WAYNE battery backup sump pump on AC power, direct from the wall socket. In the off chance when you are left with no electricity, the backup battery kicks in immediately.

On one full charge, the battery can provide backup for six straight hours, draining out close to 11,000 gallons of water. The best part is that while operational, the WAYNE BGSP50 Guardian makes little to no sound – you will not hear it running in other areas of your house. This best-rated sump pump with battery backup comes equipped with two pumps made of durable cast-iron – if there is a problem with one, the other one can get the job done.

A display with well-placed lights indicates the system status. It tells you:

To top it all, the WAYNE BGSP50 Guardian is regularly updated via WIFI (OTA) to ensure that it works at its full potential. Plus, you can use the associated Android and Apple mobile apps to monitor progress.

4. WAYNE WSS30VN

Included next in our battery-backup sump pump reviews is the WAYNE WSS30VN – undoubtedly one of the best-rated sump pumps you can buy. This WAYNE battery-backup sump pump has been rigorously tested, and the results are impressive. 

The battery can provide one million full cycles – a claim that has been authenticated by various failure analysts and found to be true. The WAYNE WSS30VN runs on a 12-volt 75 AMP battery, which allows it to pump out 5,100 gallons of water per hour at zero feet.

To limit the chances of the pump clogging up due to debris and other particulates – this WAYNE battery backup sump pump features a top suction mechanism. If you feel that sump pumps are supposed to be noisy devices, you will be relieved to know that the WAYNE WSS30VN isn’t annoying in the least – it is surprisingly quiet when operational.

Also, the battery-powered backup sump pump has a dedicated alarm system that alerts users of new developments. Weighing in at 45 pounds, the device is easy to carry plus installation is quite simple – everything is preassembled, you just have to put it in the sump and connect the power supply.

5. Zoeller 508-0005 Aquanot 508

If you want a sump pump battery backup system that is a great bargain and good value for money, you need to buy the Zoeller 508-0005 Aquanot 508. The Zoeller battery backup sump pump comes pre-assembled, so it is quite easy to install even if you have very little knowledge.

For backup power, the device requires a 12-volt battery that will have to be purchased separately.  You need to buy a deep cycle battery sized 27, 29, or 31.  Its dimensions should be a maximum of 13 x 7.5 x 9.5 inches so it can easily fit the provided case.

Also, the battery should deliver at least 2hr 55 min of reserve capacity. The control box on the Zoeller 508-0005 Aquanot 508 features an LCD screen that gives a comprehensive outlook of the device's usage. The screen shows:

An alarm sets off every time there is a change in any of these values. However, the control box provides you with the option of silencing the alarm for a day. At zero feet you can pump out a maximum of 2,340 gallons of water per hour, at 10 feet you can pump out water at 1,800 GPH, at 15 feet the number goes down to 1,200 GPH, and at 20 feet you can only drain out 360 gallons of water per hour. Beyond 20 feet, the Zoeller battery backup sump pump will shut off.

Also make sure to check out our complete guide to Zoeller sump pumps.

6. Basement Watchdog BWE

If your purchase decision depends on budgetary constraints, let us introduce you to the sixth battery backup in our list – the Basement Watchdog BWE. The Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump fits seamlessly in narrow and small sump pits without any compromises on functionality. Even during significant power breakdowns, you can rest assured that a flooded basement will be the least of your concerns.

It can move 2,000 gallons of water per hour out of your basement at zero feet and can drain out 1,000 gallons per hour of water at 10-feet. Apart from its price, many people opt for this sump pump battery backup system because of how convenient it is to install next to the primary sump pump, plus maintaining it is also quite easy.

The Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump also has an emergency system that gets triggered when an issue arises. Once the alarm sounds, you can quickly know what the problem is from the control panel. The best part is that the Basement Watchdog BWE comes with a sensor that indicates battery power, and it also has two float switches. If one switch malfunctions, the second switch will activate the machine when water levels rise, and electricity goes out.

7. PumpSpy PS2000

The PumpSpy PS2000 is a technological marvel with outstanding features. This is why we included this 120-volt battery backup for sump pumps in our battery backup sump pump reviews. The product is backed by proprietary technology that continually monitors the sump pump from PumpSpy servers and installs updates as they are introduced. This ensures that your sump pump battery backup system will always be up-to-date and fully functional.

This system also monitors changes to the configurations and sends out a notification to the user via text message, e-mail, or on a mobile app in case of a problem. Furthermore, there are no subscription charges for this service; anyone who purchases the PumpSpy PS2000 can avail it free of cost.  Also, it is the best battery backup for the existing sump pump, as it can be easily attached to any sump pump.

The best part is that a backup pump is also included, which is capable of draining 20 gallons of water in just 38 seconds. The PumpSpy PS2000 mobile application is available on Google Play and Apple’s App Store. Once installed and configured, you can receive instant push notifications regarding any changes in the primary pump, the backup pump, and the battery.

8. Pump Sentry 822 PS

Coming in at number eight in our selection of best battery backups for existing sump pumps is Pump Sentry 822 PS – a 1200 watts’ interface between the power outlet and the sump pump. Its housing is made from durable aluminum, which can be placed on a surface or wall-mounted. However, you’ll need to buy a deep cycle marine battery that is of 12-volts and is up to 12 amps. The unit can be placed in narrow and small spaces, plus its aluminum housing keeps it protected from adversities such as corrosion, debris, etc.

The Pump Sentry 822 PS features a:

If you are receiving adequate electricity, the Pump Sentry 822 PS will run on AC power, but in the off chance, when there is a power breakdown, the machine will continue running on the sump pump battery backup. When electric power gets restores – the sump pump will automatically start using AC power, and the battery will begin charging.

Also, the sump pump battery backup system can easily be connected with 1/3 HP sump pumps. Additionally, the 822 PS is UL and CSA approved and out of the box, you receive battery cables – there is no need to buy any additional power cords.

9. Weize 12V 75AH Deep Cycle Battery

Last but not least, we bring for you the best deep cycle battery for a backup sump pump, the brilliant Weize 12V 75AH Deep Cycle Battery. As you can see from the majority of reviews that battery backups usually don’t come with a battery as part of the package – you need to purchase one separately.

The Weize 12V 75AH Deep Cycle Battery stood out because whether you want to make your own battery backup sump pump or you want to add a battery backup for the existing sump pump – this is one of the best options out there. This 12-volt 75 Amp has a heavy-duty calcium-alloy grid, which allows it to perform exceptionally in cyclic and float applications.

Plus, it is an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology with valve regulation, this allows it to be used in open spaces as well as enclosed areas, and chances of leakages are next to none. The Weize 12V 75AH Deep Cycle Battery is recommended for Wayne ESP25 Back-Up Pump, but it can also be used with other sump pumps.

You can also use this as a backup for:

Battery Backup Sump Pump – Buyer’s Guide

Type Of Battery

If you are deciding on adding a battery backup to a sump pump, you have two options – Solar battery or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Battery. A solar-powered sump pump battery backup requires you to place solar panels outside, but close to the backup battery.

An AGM battery-powered backup sump pump will require you to choose between deep cycle, marine, maintenance-free, and wet cell batteries. These usually supply DC and, if properly maintained, can last for a decade.

Size

Power & Voltage

A battery-powered backup sump pump does not require A/C power, so it will not be at par with your main sump pump. Don’t go for the cheaper variants that won't have enough backup or power to sustain throughout an outage.

Build Quality

The best battery backup sump pump needs to be made from durable materials so the machine can last for the long-haul. Here are some options to choose from:

Battery Charging

Sump pumps might come with a battery charger. Pay attention to the voltage of the charger – some take longer to charge than others. Knowing the voltage is essential for areas with frequent power breakdowns because you may not have enough charge between outages for the sump pump battery backup to run efficiently. Typically, two devices are needed charge batteries – an AC to DC converter, and a relay. Power is supplied from the socket to the relay, which then transfers it to the sump pump.

Pump Capacity

Ensure that the pump capacity of your battery-powered backup sump pump is enough to fulfill your requirements. If power outages are frequent where you live, you need to find a backup unit that is quick to charge with enough power capacity to drain out all water and moisture quickly. Ideally, the chosen pump should be over and above 35 to 60 GPM or more than 36,000 gallons per hour.

Ease of Installation

While choosing the best backup battery sump pump, remember to check the ease of installation to your existing sump pump, or will you need to customize the current setting. The good thing is that generally, a sump pump battery backup system is easy to install, it’s plug and play. However, you need to make sure that the chosen battery powered backup is compatible with your primary sump pump.

Other Features

An excellent choice is to go with the automatic option, which begins water evacuation when the primary sump pump halts its operations for some reason. Plus, you should choose a battery backup sump pump with an alarm that goes off when there is an issue. 

Price & Warranty

The cost of a backup battery sump pump varies between different models available in the market. The stainless steel or cast iron models are more expensive than the plastic variant. The warranty also varies between them; you should consider a brand that offers the most coverage.

How Battery Backup Sump Pumps Work

Most sump pumps have an automatic start/stop system, which is activated as soon as it detects water levels rising in the basement. It gets activated by access moisture or water caused by excessive rains, seepage of groundwater, etc. and the pump drains water through well-placed pipes. Well pumps work similarly. 

Typically sump pumps use AC power, so chances are they might not work during power outages – a common occurrence during adverse weather conditions. And that’s why it is essential to have a sump pump battery backup system, as it gets triggered if the existing sump pump fails to work when needed.

Benefits of Using A Backup Sump Pump in Your Home

Water damage leads to structural losses as well as mold and mildew infestations, etc. Therefore, a sump pump is required to pump the water out of the pit and away from the building to keep the basement or crawlspace dry. However, your house remains prone to water-related damages without a backup source. Here are some of the benefits of installing battery backup for the existing sump pump to keep it working even when:

Battery Powered Vs. Water Powered

Your choice between water powered backup sump pump vs. battery-powered backup depends on the amount of pressure you require and how often you suffer from power breakdowns. When the primary sump pump stops – the water backup sump pump activates by using city water. They remain connected with the drainage system, and a separate drain is used to keep flooded water away from the main water supply.

It is kept slightly elevated above the primary sump pump and requires at least a PSI of 40 to pump away gallons of water. The backup kicks in when there is a power outage or when the main pump malfunctions due to various reasons if the primary pump needs a helping hand, the backup pump runs on AC power. In contrast, when there is no electricity, it shifts to battery usage.

Also, it runs on a minimum of 40 PSI and can drain out 2,000+ gallons of water per hour if the vertical lift has at least a 10-feet rise. The water-powered option does not require electricity; it runs solely on water pressure so it can function for an extended period. The battery powered backup system will give as much time as its charge allows. However, water is drained out at a much quicker pace than water-powered backup sump pumps.

Installation of Battery Backup for Existing Sump Pump

If you are wondering how to add battery backup to the existing sump pump and whether you can do it yourself, the answer is yes, you can. Before commencing, please ensure that the purchased sump pump battery backup system is compatible with the existing sump pump.

Watch this video for a step by step guide on how to install a battery backup sump pump.

Storage, Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Ideally, a battery should be placed within the box. To ensure that everything runs smoothly, you should keep it maintained, and if an issue arises, get professional help to troubleshoot your device.

Maintenance 

Even if you buy the best rated sump pump with battery backup out there, its functions depend on how well you are at maintenance and upkeep. As a rule of thumb, it is best to run diagnostics every four to six months – remove the lid and then press the float switch, if water pumps the unit is working fine.

Also, check if the battery has enough fluids and its caps are clean from particulates, plus assure that all sensors are functioning correctly. Due to moisture, the chances are that the battery terminals may corrode – make it a point to clean them thoroughly regularly. Also, ensure that the pump and cord are running smoothly – if not, replace them.

Watch this video to understand how to carry forward with the maintenance and testing of your primary sump pump and its backup sump pump.

Trouble Shooting

How To Make Your Own Battery Backup Sump Pump

Following is a breakdown of how to make your own battery backup sump pump for ½ HP sump pump:

FAQs

How much does a battery backup sump pump cost?

There are many sump pump battery backup systems available in the market, and they can cost as little as $150 and can go up to $500 or more.

What are some ways to prevent flooding during power outages?

A good sump pump will keep your basement clear of excessive moisture and water, and if there is an outage or a problem with the primary sump pump, a sump pump battery backup system will activate and work for up to 24 hours.  To further enhance protection, a generator can be used to run the main sump pump as well as to charge the battery. All in all, if all else fails, you should be equipped with a backup electric sump pump.

How long will the battery backup last when charged once?

It all depends on the size of the battery and its amps. A 40-amp battery can pump out about 2,000 gallons of water per hour for 48 hours. Some batteries last for up to 12 hours, depending on the amount of water that needs to be drained out.

Do I need a plumber to set up a battery backup sump pump?

We think that setting up a battery-powered backup sump pump is doable even if you have very little knowledge; just follow the instruction provided in the manual or watch a YouTube video. However, if you can’t make head or tails, it is better to call in an expert.

How often should you replace sump pump battery?

Since the backup only gets activated during an outage or a malfunction – it is safe to assume that the battery will last for a good number of years. However, if you have bought a cheap battery, longevity will not be one of its strong suits.

Does insurance cover a sump pump failure?

The water damage caused by the sump pump failure may be covered by insurance, and if not, you can add this clause to your insurance policy; however, your subscription amount will be hiked. Your sump pump may not be covered by insurance, but it may have come with a decent warranty policy.

What are the top-rated battery backup sump pump brands?

Top brands include WAYNE, Superior Pump, Zoeller, Basement Watchdog, PumpSpy, and Pump Sentry.

Where is the best place to buy these sump pumps?

You can visit many local vendors and hypermarkets such as Wal-Mart, Menards, Lowes, etc., or you can buy the best battery backup sump pump online from accessible sources like Home Depot, Amazon, eBay, etc.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that no one wants a flooded basement – it distorts the air quality, and the subsequent damages can be quite costly. This is why you need to deploy a sump pump and a battery backup for the existing sump pump to keep your home free of excessive moisture.

We analyzed a good number of sump pump battery backup systems by considering various integral aspects of each to find the best possible option for you. Rest assured that the machines mentioned above in our battery backup sump pump reviews are the best in their class.

The one that stood out the most to us and, according to us, is the best battery backup sump pump is the Wayne ESP25 – it offers excellent value for money and all the features you’d need in a battery backup.