Check out our special Offers! | Learn more
We Offer Financing | Learn more

back to blog

How To Keep Your Sump Pump Working During a Power Outage

A sump pump installed in a basement of a home with a water powered backup system.

Stormy weather often causes power outages in Ohio homes, which can create problems for homeowners. Blackouts aren’t the only thing that families have to worry about when violent storms pass through.

Heavy rain and wind can compromise your home, leaving you with flooding in the basement. While sump pumps can prevent basement flooding, these systems rely on electricity, which can become a critical issue during a power outage.

In this blog post, the plumbing professionals at Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air explore how to ensure your sump pump remains operational even when the power goes out.

Does a Sump Pump Work Without Power?

A standard sump pump requires electricity to operate. When a power outage occurs, your sump pump becomes inoperative, leaving your basement at a higher risk of flooding. This can be particularly concerning during severe storms, which are often the cause of power outages in Ohio.

Without power, the water collected in your sump basin will have no way to be pumped out, potentially leading to significant water damage and costly repairs.

Importance of a Battery Backup for Your Sump Pump

One of the best solutions to this problem is a battery backup system for your sump pump. A battery backup system is designed to automatically take over when the main power supply is interrupted. Here’s how it works:

  • Automatic activation: When the power goes out, the battery backup system automatically kicks in, ensuring that your sump pump continues to operate without any manual intervention.
  • Duration: Depending on the battery’s capacity, it can keep your sump pump running for several hours. This protects you during prolonged power outages, giving you peace of mind that your basement will remain dry.
  • Protection: A battery backup system ensures continuous operation of your sump pump during power outages, reducing the risk of basement flooding and subsequent water damage. It’s a reliable safeguard that can save you from expensive repairs and the loss of valuable belongings.

What To Do During a Storm Without a Battery Backup

If you find yourself facing a storm without a battery backup for your sump pump, here are some immediate steps you can take to minimize the risk of flooding:

  • Move valuables: Relocate important items and valuables to higher ground to protect them from water damage.
  • Monitor your basement: Look for signs of water accumulation in your basement. Early detection can help you take prompt action to mitigate damage.
  • Use a generator: If you have a portable generator, you can use it to power your sump pump during a power outage. Follow all safety guidelines when using a generator indoors or near your home.

These precautions can help you manage the situation and protect your home until power is restored. 

Choose Schneller Knochelmann for Sump Pump Repair & Installation

Whether you need a sump pump repaired or want to install one in your home, Schneller Knochelmann has the solutions you need to keep your basement dry.

With nearly 100 years of local service experience, our team understands the unique needs of Ohio properties. We ensure their systems remain fully operational, no matter how many power outages strike.

Request sump pump installation or repair in Ohio by contacting our team. Book your appointment today.

$79 Furnace Tune-Up

Learn More
$29 Plumbing Safety Evaluation
Learn More
$500 Off
Tankless Water Heater Installation
Learn More
Free Estimates
on Replacements
Learn More
Free 2nd Opinion
On Sewer or HVAC Estimates
Learn More
Easy Payment Plans Available
w/ Multiple Options to Choose From
Learn More