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Non solar sump pump backup system

Alpatron77

New Member
Joined
Feb 19, 2025
Messages
11
Location
Cincinnati
I am new to solar and backup power, looking for recommendations to run a backup single sump pump, emergency backup only. Is it possible to run the sump pump directly off of my 110 outlet and have the system kick over once the power is out? Also do I need a transfer pump switch relay with my inverter?



No solar for this setup.

What battery charger and batteries and other equipment would you recommend for setup?



I was planning on going with a minimum of 3-4 12 volt 100 amp each batteries. This is system might be needed once or twice a year with bad storms.

Also i understand that the inverter will have a constant draw on the batteries. Can I keep this system on 24/7 or will need a cutoff switch and routinely charge the system?



Recommendations please



Inverter:

Xantrex xpower plus 3000 watt modified sine

Peak surge 5000 amps

  • no built in charger


Sump Pump:

Liberty model 287

1/2 hp 8amp 120 volt

Starting amps 23
 

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Last edited:
With once or twice a year usage, an inverter generator.
How many horsepower is the sump pump?

How long are your typical outages?
Freezer and refrigerator could consume 6 to 7 kw in 24 hours.
 
With once or twice a year usage, an inverter generator.
How many horsepower is the sump pump?

How long are your typical outages?
Freezer and refrigerator could consume 6 to 7 kw in 24 hours.
1/2 horsepower Liberty model 287 pump
Outages usually between 30 minutes to 4 hours.
 
The inverter shown is designed for use on a running vehicle like a service truck where the alternator is constantly charging the battery. Without that it will drain a car battery in minutes, with some very large battery cables think 0000 awg and 350 amp Anderson connectors so you can use your car as a generator. For the sump pump consider using a 12v bilge pump from a boat. It will have a lower current draw than trying to run an ac pump on an inverter you'll be able to pump more water per charge. Consider 6v golf cart or scrubber batteries rather than 12v trolling motor batteries more capacity for your money. For the freezers fill any empty space with plastic bottles full of ice and get a small generator.
 
The simplest solution is often the best. The same brand pump you have, sells battery backup versions at home depot. If you were powering more than the pump, then maybe building something custom would be worth it.

If you want to kick it up a notch, get the small sump pump that works on the battery, then parallel a battery to it if the factory charger can handle it.
 

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