Alarm that texts when the pit is high
A sump pit alarm that texts you can warn you before rising water becomes a basement flood. Here is what to look for in the sensor,…
Buying guides
Practical help choosing, installing and troubleshooting sump pumps before the next storm.
Backup Systems
Battery backup sump pump for storm outages
A battery backup sump pump can keep water moving when a storm knocks out power. Learn how to choose the right backup capacity, battery,…
Battery Tender for a Backup Sump System: What to Buy
A backup sump pump needs the right charger—not just any automotive battery tender. Match the charger to the pump system’s battery type,…
Best battery backup sump pump
The best battery backup sump pump is one that can handle your discharge height, runs from a suitable deep-cycle battery, and operates…
Best sump pump if power outages are common
If power outages are common, the best sump pump setup is usually a reliable primary pump paired with a properly sized backup. Compare…
Best sump pump if you already have a battery backup on the shelf
If you already own a battery backup, the best primary sump pump is one sized for your pit and discharge height, with a setup your backup…
Sump pump with a water-powered backup
A water-powered backup sump pump can keep removing water during a power outage without batteries, but it only works with an adequate…
Alarm plus backup if you travel during storm season
If you travel during storm season, a high-water alarm and a properly installed backup sump pump can provide warning and pumping capacity…
Cost of a pre-plumbed backup system versus DIY
A DIY sump pump backup can cost less upfront, but a pre-plumbed system may be worth the added expense when installation time, reliability,…
Cost of adding a battery backup to an existing sump
Adding battery backup to an existing sump usually costs more than the backup pump alone. The final amount depends on whether you need only…
Best For Situation
Best quiet sump pump
The quietest sump pump is usually a properly sized submersible model installed on a stable, vibration-damping base. Here is how to compare…
Best sump pump for a finished basement
The best sump pump for a finished basement is a dependable primary pump sized for your discharge height, paired with backup protection if…
Best sump pump for a high water table
The best sump pump for a high water table is one sized for continuous inflow and your system’s actual vertical lift—not simply the pump…
Best sump pump for a narrow pit
The best sump pump for a narrow pit is compact enough to fit without restricting the float or discharge pipe. Compare pump dimensions,…
Best sump pump for a rental property you manage remotely
For a rental property you manage remotely, the best sump pump is usually a complete protection system: a dependable primary pump, a…
Best sump pump for clay soil that dumps water fast
Clay soil can send water into a sump basin quickly, but the best pump depends on inflow, vertical lift, discharge piping, and clog…
Best sump pump if the pit is full of silt
A silt-filled sump pit can clog a pump, jam its float, and shorten motor life. The best solution is usually to remove the sediment first,…
How loud a sump pump is in a basement bedroom
A sump pump in a basement bedroom can be noticeable, especially during heavy rain, but excessive noise usually points to vibration, loose…
Price & Buying
Submersible sump pump with a vertical float
A submersible sump pump with a vertical float is a practical choice for many narrow or compact sump pits. Learn how the float switch works,…
Sump pump for an 8 foot basement pit
An 8-foot pit does not automatically require a specific horsepower. Choose a sump pump by measuring the total vertical lift to the…
Electricity cost of a sump that runs after every rain
A sump pump that runs after every rain may use less electricity than expected, but frequent or continuous cycling can signal a discharge,…
How much does a sump pump cost
A sump pump can be a relatively simple replacement or a larger installation project. The total cost depends on the pump type, installation…
When to Replace a Sump Pump Instead of Repairing the Switch
A faulty float switch does not always mean you need a new sump pump. Use the pump’s age, condition, switch design, failure symptoms, and…
Troubleshooting
Seasonal
Buying a spare primary pump before hurricane season
A spare sump pump can prevent a flooded basement when the primary pump fails during a storm. Before buying, match the pump to your basin,…
Sump pump for a lake-effect snowmelt week
A lake-effect snowmelt week can send large volumes of water toward your foundation while storms may also cause outages. Here is how to…
Ice guard for a sump discharge
An ice guard can reduce the chance of a frozen sump pump discharge, but it cannot fix poor drainage, an undersized pipe, or a blocked line.…
