what can I do for sump pump during power failure?

Question

recent power outages for hours-since I do not have an expensive battery back up sump-is there any other alternatives that I could use to ensure a working pump if no power?

Answer 1

A power inverter is available that turn 12 DC (car battery) into 120 volts AC.
1- Example Radio Shack has a 300 watt one for about $80.
(a one HP motor =746 watts) sumps come in 1/4 hp, 1/3 hp half hp and so on.
2- A 1200 watt inverter runs about $170.
3- Get one that plugs into your car's cigarette lighter and run an extension cord to the sump.
4- Check out you local auto store in the accessories dept.
5- RV stores carry them too and some will even handle 5000 watts.
6- Bottom line, how long will you need the power without having to recharge the battery ?

Answer 2

You can install a water powered sump pump if you are on a municipal water system. These pumps are small water powered turbines connected to your regular cold water supply. The pump turbines usually have a ratio of 1 gallon of water consumed to 6 or 7 gallons pumped out. I've seen these and they seem quite simple and reliable.

Answer 3

The only thing I could think of was the battery sump pumps, but if you can afford one of those, how about a back-flow prevention valve on the sewer line to prevent your basement from flooding through the sewer?

Answer 4

battery sump pump? absurd..... get a small generator..for a couple hundred bucks, well worth the price in an emergency

Answer 5

Some good answers,but what if one is not at home when there is a power failure?

Answer 6

You might want to consider getting a generator...........Maybe home-depot can help you..........good luck

Answer 7

get a bucket and start bailing