Smart Sump Pump Buying Guide

After a disaster, a common sentiment among homeowners is the wish that they had been better prepared. Keeping a basement dry is no small feat, as catastrophe can strike at any moment—from heavy rains and overflowing gutters to bursting pipes or melting snow. Because water moves quickly, preparation is essential for those who want a chance to save their homes. 

When equipped with a smart sump pump system, a property is better armed to combat water than ever before. A smart backup sump pump is an investment that often pays for itself. 

Water Damage Can't Be Reversed 

If a primary sump pump fails during a heavy rainstorm while the homeowners are away, water can pour in unchecked. In a matter of minutes, floors can be covered, and within hours, a basement can become a cesspool of liquid waste and debris. Most homeowners are away from their property for much of the day, making immediate notification of a flood threat vital. 

For those with vacation or rental properties, a smart backup pump offers essential peace of mind. A wireless sump system can pay for itself almost immediately the first time it prevents a flood. The average cost of water damage repair is approximately $2,437, but it can exceed $7,000 depending on the severity. Costs skyrocket if mold develops or if basement equipment—such as HVAC systems, water heaters, and laundry appliances—is damaged. A fast response is the best way to avoid expensive repairs. 

Getting the Right Pump 

To select the best sump pump for a property, homeowners should: 

Select the right-sized pump:  

The pump must handle the necessary gallons per hour (GPH) at the specific discharge height (vertical lift). While a 1/4 HP pump handles 1,000 GPH at a 10-foot lift easily, it will struggle to move 1,500 GPH over 15 feet.  

Determine the type of system:  

Owners may choose to upgrade a primary pump, add a backup to an existing unit, or install a combination system featuring both. 

Choose a smart sump pump 

Once the size and type are determined, selecting a pump with a wireless live monitoring alarm allows for real-time alerts via text, phone call, or email. Alternatively, an existing pump can be upgraded by adding a smart alarm. 

Upgrading and Backing Up 

Upgrading a current setup with added intelligence is a straightforward process. Even in areas with a low water table or for properties with only a crawl space, a smart pump provides the benefit of knowing when a danger exists. A smart primary pump provides protection by sending an alert if high water is detected, which often indicates a pump failure or power loss. 

Every homeowner needs a backup for instances where the primary pump fails or the power goes out. A smart backup system puts control of the situation into the palm of the user's hand. 

Smart Battery Backup 

This system consists of a DC battery-powered pump that handles incoming water if the primary pump loses power, fails, or becomes overwhelmed. These units stand guard at all times and can handle emergencies lasting up to eight hours. Unlike older backups where a dead battery might go unnoticed until a flood occurs, smart systems monitor battery health constantly. Real-time conditions are available through apps like NightEye or Z Control. These systems even alert the user if a Wi-Fi signal is lost, providing a level of control that traditional backups cannot match. 

Smart Water-Powered Backup 

As an alternative to battery power, water-powered backup pumps use the pressure from a municipal water supply to discharge incoming water. These are highly reliable because they require no electricity or batteries. However, they use one gallon of fresh water for every two gallons removed, which can be costly during extended use. They are also less robust than battery units, typically handling under 1,000 GPH at 10 feet of lift. When paired with a smart wireless alarm, they provide constant monitoring and peace of mind. 

Smart Combination Pump Systems 

For maximum basement protection, a smart combination system provides both a primary pump and a battery backup in one easy-to-install package. These systems are designed to work together, saving the frustration of trying to sync mismatched units later. Many are specifically designed for storm protection, featuring high-output backups that can move 1,800 GPH at a 10-foot lift, along with redundant alarms and intelligent battery maintenance. 

How Smart is Smart? 

The most important factor in a smart system is its ability to alert the owner of a liquid invasion. Some systems provide alerts for high water, pump failure, low temperature, and power failure before a pipe bursts or a floor is submerged. Features like remote pump testing and live monitoring are especially useful for frequent travelers or owners of remote properties. 

Ready for Anything 

With the right backup solution, water damage is no longer a certainty. At a minimum, a water alarm or an electronic float switch should be installed. Electronic switches have proven more accurate and longer lasting than the mechanical float switches manufactured a decade ago.