The Complete Guide to Pumps

A second pump that sits in the same pit as your primary pump. Connected to a marine deep-cycle battery and charger. When the primary fails or power is out, the backup activates automatically via its own float switch. Runs 6-24 hours on a full charge depending on water volume and battery size.

Primary and backup pump in one package with a shared controller. The controller manages both pumps: primary for normal operation, backup for power failure or primary pump failure. Some combinations also activate the backup during high-volume events when the primary cannot keep up alone.

Uses municipal water pressure to power a venturi pump -- no battery needed. Pros: unlimited runtime during power outages (as long as city water flows). Cons: uses 1 gallon of city water for every 2 gallons pumped, increases water bill, requires adequate municipal pressure (40+ PSI). Not available on well water.

How to properly install check valves and route discharge lines for sump and ejector pumps.

How to install a recirculation pump for instant hot water at every fixture.

How to install a sewage ejector pump for below-grade bathrooms and laundry rooms.

How to install a sump pump in a basement pit, including basin prep and discharge routing.

How to clean and inspect your sump pump, well pump, or utility pump for peak performance and long life.

How to maintain your sump pump battery backup system so it works when the power goes out.

How to test your sump pump every quarter to make sure it works when you need it most.

How to recognize when a pump is failing and should be replaced rather than repaired.

What happens financially when a sump pump, well pump, or ejector pump fails -- and how prevention compares.

What plumbers charge to install sump pumps, well pumps, and ejector pumps.

How much electricity pumps use and what they cost to run monthly and annually.

What sump pumps, well pumps, sewage ejectors, and utility pumps cost by type and capacity.