In the past few years we’ve had more than a few violent rainstorms where we lost power.
Because of this, I’ve decided that a battery powered emergency sump pump would probably be a good investment.
Unfortunately those kinds of pumps seem to be kind of pricey. I’ve gotten quotes from $1200 to $1500 (installed) for an Aquanot pump. I also got a quote from American Residential Services (ARS), but it was $3000 to install a “Tranco” pump … but I’ve determined that ARS companies seem to quote prices that are about double what normal vendors charge and use products that are not normally supplied.
I’ve got a couple of on-site estimates scheduled (one today, another on Monday) so I’ll probably be deciding soon.
I figure that $1200 is more than it would cost if we ended up having a real flood, even with insurance.
What about a generator? What is the cost of a good Honda generator vs. the sump pump?
A generator has to be started … which doesn’t help much if you’re not at home. Also, the backup sump pump will take over if the primary pump fails for any reason.
You might want to check out the water-powered sump pumps that are now available. The need no power, you just hook them up to your municipal water supply.
The Basementsaver water powered emergency basement pumps are easily self installed and will only cost you a fraction of the price that you mention. These backup pumps are also incredibly efficient in operation. Suggest you take a look at http://www.basementsaver.com