Basement Watchdog DFK-961 - 1/3 HP Combination Primary and Backup Sump Pump System

Unfortunately not, Sebastian. That combo system includes the BWC1 Basement Watchdog Dual Vertical Float Switch & Controller, which contains two large floating rings enclosed within a protective cage. Water will lift the bottom float by a 1/4", which will activate the pump. If for any reason the lower float does not activate the pump, the water will rise and activate the second switch. As the pump evacuates the water from the pit, the floats will drop. The pump will run for an additional 10 seconds to extend the cycle after the float returns to its original position. Note: When mounting the float switch, position the bottom of the cage at the height you want the pump to activate. If you prefer, you could change out that BWC1 with a Pro Series DFC2 - Deluxe Controller System w/ Dual Vertical Float Switch. This switch operates pretty much the same as the BWC1 EXCEPT for the fact that you can set the timer mechanism to run the pump from 5 - 45 seconds, thereby providing a longer pump runtime. Please note that this is ONLY for the primary or main pump in that DFK-961 combo system. There are no provisions for the switch operation on the backup pump.

Thank you for your interest in Sump Pumps Direct. The Basement Watchdog 1/2 HP Combination Primary and Backup Sump Pump, model BW4000 will fit in a sump pit as small as 12” wide and 14” high (the size of a 5 gallon bucket). It measures 18“ inches from the bottom of the pump to the top of the "Y" connector where it will be attached to the discharge pipe.
The Basement Watchdog 1/3 HP Combination Primary and Backup Sump Pump System, model DFK-961 will fit in a sump pit as small as 10” wide and 14” high (the size of a 5 gallon bucket). It measures 17-3/4“ inches from the bottom of the pump to the top of the "Y" connector where it will be attached to the discharge pipe.

Thank you for visiting Sump Pumps Direct. You bring up a very good and important point, Mark! Most primary (1/4HP - 1/2HP) and battery backup pumps discharge to a 1-1/2" discharge pipe and will be installed separately but due to the discharge system already in place, be piped or "Y'd" together. In MOST cases, the total pumping capacity by both pumps at the same time will be handled by that 1-1/2" discharge pipe and will not cause any extra stress or back-pressure on those pumps. That being said, for optimum performance of both pumps, they should be connected to separate discharge pipes. Again, that is not always possible. In cases of extreme high water tables and frequent possible flooding where high capacity pumps are required, you should definitely run a separate discharge pipe for each pump you have installed.

Yes, the controller will keep the battery charging and the pump running indefinitely if needed. This is true for the Basement Watchdog model BWE and the BWSP stand alone battery backup systems as well.

You can use a standard marine deep cycle battery, however the Basement Watchdog Emergency Standby Battery has been designed to run the backup pump for a minimum of 6 hours continuously. However, most of the time the pump will turn on and off, and the battery will run the pump intermittently for days. In addition the unique materials in the battery enable it to last for 5-7 years in standby service.
To extend the run time of the pump, use the Basement Watchdog 7.5 Hour battery. It will run this pump continuously for 12 hours. Why will it run longer than 7.5 hours? Because the 7.5 hour battery is rated for other Basement Watchdog pumps that draw more power (amps). The emergency pump puts less drain on the battery, so the battery lasts longer.
NOTE: The battery will not run the primary pump.

The use of automotive batteries is NOT recommended. Automotive batteries are not designed for this application. They will only run the pump for a short time and will have a shorter life than a standby battery.
The battery fluid sensor and cap are designed to fit the Basement Watchdog batteries. Measuring the battery fluid is one of the most important features of the system; since about 80% of backup sump pump failures are the result of a battery that has dried out.

The control box that is included does also act as a battery charger.

Since the primary pump is independent of the backup system, pretty much any submersible pump pump will work. The BW1033 would be a direct replacement because that's the pump used in the system.

A built-in check valve is really a convenience in that you will not need to worry about it for the rest of your installation. All sump pumps require a check valve to keep water from flowing back into your basin once the pump shuts off. The dual style pump you speak of, I believe, is actually a Combo or Combination primary and battery backup pump already plumbed together for easier installation. They are a great idea for those that are looking to install a brand new system, i.e. primary pump and battery backup system or those that are looking to replace their old primary pump and add the battery backup system.

The recommended battery is the Basement Watchdog model 30HDC140S. It will give you about 12 hours of continuous run time.

No, the battery box does need to be purchased seperately. It is available HERE for $12.99 plus shipping.

The DFK-961 uses a BWE backup pump with 1000 GPH @10' lift.

Yes, the kit includes 1 Basement Watchdog 1/3 HP (BW1033) AC pump (2200 GPH @ 10 lift) and 1 Basement Watchdog Emergency battery backup system (BWE)(1000 GPH @ 10 feet). The battery is sold seperately.

These combination pump systems from Basement Watchdog have built-in check valves. An additional float switch is not needed.