Experts tell us that one of the best precautions you can take to protect your Chicagoland home from a flooded basement is to install a sump pump.

But sometimes during storms, you may lose power which also kills your sump pump, making it useless when it’s needed. So it may be wise to invest in a backup sump pump.

A backup sump pump system is an addition to your existing setup that will allow your sump pump to run even if the power goes out. There are two options when choosing a backup pump – battery-powered and water-powered. The question is, which unit works better and why? Let’s take a look at four main standards to compare both kinds of pumps:

1. Run Time
2. Longevity
3. Pumping Speed
4. Cost

1. Run Time

• With a brand-new battery, a battery-powered pump will run for about 7 to 8 hours. But, like any other battery, the older it gets, the more it weakens. After a few years, it may only run for 2-3 hours. So if you experience a long power outage, it’s likely your pump will stop working and your basement can flood.
• A water-powered pump’s running time is unlimited, one of its main benefits. With no battery requirement, there’s no need to worry about reduced run times.

2. Longevity

• As mentioned, batteries have a limited life span. One battery manufacturer recommends replacing a backup sump pump battery every three years.
• The best water-powered sump pumps available can last up to 20+ years, without the need to replace any parts. Just test it biannually by raising the float or unplugging your regular pump.

3. Pumping Speed

• Battery-powered backup sump pumps are usually either 1/4 HP or 1/3 HP and are rated to pump between 800 and 2,000 GPH, but that’s with a new, fully charged battery. After just one or two years, it may begin to pump slower as the battery charge weakens. If it’s required to run for a longer length of time, the pumping rate will continually slow until the battery runs out of power.
• High-performance water-powered sump pumps can pump from 1,800 to 2,830 GPH, depending on how high the water pressure is in your Chicago area home. And they can maintain that rate as long as needed no matter their age since water pressure is their energy supply.

4. Cost

• A battery-powered backup sump pump kit will cost anywhere between $200 – $900, depending on how powerful it is. Along with the pump kit, you will also have to purchase the battery separately. They’re about the size of a car battery and usually cost $150-$250, conditional on the quality and size of the battery. Plus, you’ll need to replace it every two or three years.
• A water-powered backup sump pump will cost between $250-$450, depending on the size and quality. If you don’t have a big issue with water seeping into your basement, then the low-cost models may work for you, although they have a shorter life span and lower pumping capacities.

If you end up with a flooded basement due to a faulty sump pump or no sump pump at all, call Chicago’s water damage restoration professionals, ServiceMaster By Simons. Our technicians are ready 24/7 to quickly dry and clean a flooded basement at your home or business and prevent further water damage.

Choose a Trustworthy Company

ServiceMaster By Simons is a reputable disaster restoration company you can rely on. We’ve been in business for many years and take great pride in serving the expansive Chicago metropolitan area and its surrounding suburbs. Our company stands as the preferred choice in Chicagoland for both commercial and residential disaster restoration services. Our expertise includes Fire Damage Restoration, Water Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation, and Smoke Odor Removal. With a team of highly skilled professionals who are certified by the IICRC, we’re equipped to handle insurance claims of any size. Call 773-376-1110 or contact us online.