Q: Hi Jim, I currently have a Zoeller 1/3 hp M53 as my primary pump and as the backup there is a small unlabeled pump that runs off a battery backup system. I moved in to the house six months ago. I live in an area with a high water table and I have a finished basement with 10 foot ceilings, so the pumps get a lot of work. I didn't trust the battery backup system so I had a generator installed that will power the circuit that the primary pump is connected to in the event of a power outage. However, the backup pump will not run off this circuit, it will only run off the battery (it is DC only I think). So, I am thinking it would be smart to replace the backup with a pump that is connected to the same circuit as the Zoeller and will kick in at a higher water level (so only when the first one fails). The thing I don't like about the Zoeller is that the float is not adjustable. Given the high water table it is constantly turning on. I'd like to go with something like the StormPro BA-33M as the primary since it has an adjustable float. Do you think the StormPro BA-33M compares favorably to the Zoeller M53? Then, what would you recommend for the secondary? This would need to have an adjustable level, too, that it is even higher than the primary's. I'm worried that I won't be able to get it high enough while still having the level high on the primary so that it doesn't kick on all the time. What is the range of the StormPro's adjustable float? How would you recommend I set this up? Thanks a lot! Matt 847 800 4011 by Matt Edelstein from Illinois on May 15, 2011
A: All battery backup systems will include a control box with a charger that is always plugged into an electrical outlet so that shouldn't be an issue. However, if you prefer, the StormPro BA-33M is an excellent choice. You could probably use the same model for your secondary pump and just adjust the float for the extra pump at a higher level. The vertical float switches that are supplied with these pumps actually clamp onto your discharge pipe at any height your require. The switch activates at a 6 1/2" differential. Please make sure that each pump is plugged into a seperate outlet/circuit rated at 12-20 amps if you plan on running both primary pumps to avoid tripping circuit breakers. by Jim, Product Expert
Q: Pedestal vs Non Pedestal sump pump?? by Jim Olson from California on January 03, 2011
A: Pedestal sump pumps have become less common and manufacturers are making fewer of them every year.
Here are some advantages of submersible pumps.
If you want a pump that's quiet, less likely to burn out, and can handle a high volume of water, a submersible pump is the style of pump to buy.
Noise Level - The motor and impeller are underwater, these pumps aren’t as loud as a pedestal style pumps, that have their motor exposed above the sump pit.
Running Temperature – By having the motor below water, a submersible pump runs cooler especially during extended periods of use. Pedestal style pumps have no cooling fans, so their motor is cooled by the air around the pump, which is very ineffective during long run times.
Output & Solid Handling- Submersible sump pumps have higher outputs compared to Pedestal style sump pump. They're also able to handle solids that may be present that would otherwise clog a Pedestal pump. by Jim, Product Expert