Water-Powered Backup Sump Pumps for the highest reliability!

Unbeatable reliability and performance

Reliability of the primary sump pump is very important but it is absolutely critical for the backup sump pump, which is the "last line of defense" against basement flooding.

No electricity or batteries needed. During a heavy rainstorm or snow melt, you do not have to worry about a power outage or sump pump failure, or about batteries on a battery back-up sump pump.

When called upon, the water-powered backup pump can run infinitely, as long as municipal water is available – not limited by a battery charge.

This pump requires no cleaning or maintenance. There is no impeller or motor – no rotating or moving parts to break or wear off. It is constructed of heavy duty, corrosion-resistant materials (Schedule 80 polypropylene) for practically unlimited longevity.

How a water-powered pump works

This is a truly simple and elegant design – no batteries and no moving parts! Pressurized municipal water pushes through a Venturi nozzle and as it speeds up, its pressure drops down. This creates suction. The sump pump ("ejector") draws water from the sump pit by suction just like through a giant soda straw. This is a well-proven and reliable principle - that’s how they make vacuum in school labs.

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Backup sump pump operation

The operation is fully automatic – it works whether you are home or away. The backup pump has its own float switch, which activates the pump when water level in the sump pit rises too high – above the level normally allowed by the primary sump pump. This simultaneously activates an audible alarm (needs a 9V battery) to let you know that it is operating and that there is something wrong with the primary pump or the power supply.

The hydraulic (not mechanical) tethered float switch is not dependent on electricity or a battery. Its activation height is fully adjustable. It is connected to the pump by flexible pressurized tubing, which is clipped on to the suction pipe. To help with the limited space inside sump pits, the minimum needed lift of the grapefruit-sized float is only about 1.5–2 inches. It does not need to drop down to a vertical position. There is an adjustable timer on the pump, which sets how long the pump works in each pumping cycle as needed to empty the sump pit (typically set at 20-30 seconds).

The best value among water-powered back-up sump pumps!

Location, Location, Location! What makes our pumps particularly unique is their location outside the sump pit:

• Not exposed to the grime and debris inside the pit or to corrosive salts from a water softener. Other back-up sump pumps have to be placed inside the pit right above the main pump.
• Do not have to push all the water up from the pit like other pumps. Our pumps sit high and dry on the ceiling and let the city water flow through and pull up just the sump water.
• The highest performance in its category – the combination of pumping rates and lift. They generate such a high vacuum (over 28" Hg) that they easily pull water 10 ft and more above the sump pit bottom. At the same lift, their pumping rate is several times higher than other back-up sump pumps.
• Do not interfere with the primary pump or its float inside the sump pit, which can cause pump failures. Many residential pits are just too small for a second sump pump.
• The suction pipe reaches to the bottom of the sump pit and in each cycle, the pump empties the entire pit. The ejector runs for full 15 to 45 seconds (adjustable). Other backup sump pumps empty the pit only partially, which means frequent pump cycling and a short life of the pump.
• Twice as efficient than other pumps. At 60 psi municipal water pressure, our pumps consume 1 gallon of city water to remove 2 gallons of sump water, and even less at a higher pressure.
• The discharge pipe from other pumps connects to the main discharge pipe right above the main check valve and the strong turbulence may damage the check valve. This would allow water pumped by the backup pump to run down back into the sump pit through the primary pump, causing basement flooding.
• Our pumps come with a very complete installation kit, making the installation quick and easy for homeowners or contractors.

These are the most reliable pumps on the market – backed up with a 3-Year Manufacturer's Warranty, the longest in the industry (and longer than the typical life of some pumps).

How to choose the right pump size

The volume of water drawn by the ejector depends on the city water pressure. The higher the water pressure, the higher the pumping rate. Pumping rates in GPH (gallons per hour) for all models based on a 10-ft lift:

The higher the needed "lift" from the bottom of the sump pit, the lower the pumping rate. But up to a 15-ft. lift, it does not decrease dramatically.

Choose your installation option

The standard classic set-up has its own suction pipe from the sump pit and its own discharge hose, which can lead to a separate discharge or be connected to the primary pump discharge pipe. The suction pipe is straight and its stainless steel suction screen protects the pump against debris.

A separate discharge avoids the risk of a clogged or frozen primary discharge pipe but in case the backup discharge pipe freezes up too, the included pop-up pressure relief valve will spill water onto the backyard, allowing the backup pump to operate. If the discharge hose is connected to the main discharge pipe (using a Y-connection), install the pop-up valve on the main piper and make absolutely sure that the primary check valve is in good working order.

The Easy-Install Kit greatly shortens the installation time – by about half, according to experienced plumbers. It uses the already existing discharge pipe from the main sump pump for suction and discharge. It draws water through the primary pump, which modestly increases the pressure drop but it is great for tight pits. The backup pump and the installation kit can be quickly assembled on a table and then, inserted into the existing discharge pipe. This option is available for all our models and there is no price extra.

The classic set-up	The Easy-Install Kit
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Separate suction piping. Separate or joint discharge.	Uses the existing discharge pipe. Sized for 1-1/2" PVC piping (or 1-1/4")

How the Easy-Install Kit works

When the primary sump pump operates, the discharge water flows through the discharge piping as usual. It cannot force its way through the backup pump because the loop includes a check valve.

The float switch of the backup pump is placed above the normal high level in the sump pit. It is connected to the pump by flexible pressurized transfer tubing clipped on to the suction pipe. When lifted, it relieves the pressure inside the backup pump, turning it on instantly. The backup pump then uses the existing pipe for suction and also discharges to the existing discharge pipe. The kit includes a two check valves to prevent the discharged water from flowing back into the sump pit.

When the primary pump is turned back on, the float of the backup pump stays down and the backup pump is on standby again.

A complete kit for do-it-yourself installation

The illustrated pump and accessories kit is for the classic set-up with separate suction and discharge pipes. (The Easy-Install Kit is just as complete but some accessories are different.)

Pump (ejector) One-way check valve One-way backflow control valve Mounting clamps and screws PVC fittings 6-ft. flexible PVC discharge hose Plastic cable tie straps Discharge relief tee Hydraulic float and transfer tube Suction screen to keep out foreign objects Independent water alarm with a 9 V battery Fully illustrated instructions for do-it-yourself installation

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The pump is mounted on the ceiling joist above the sump pump. The flexible 6-ft. discharge hose allows for various arrangements for taking it through the exterior wall. Alternatively, the discharge hose can be "teed" into the primary pump discharge.

The included high water alarm provides an audible warning that the backup pump is working and there is something wrong with the power supply or the primary pump.

You will need to purchase locally the needed copper, PEX, PVC or CPVC piping, as approved in your area and fittings to "tee" into the municipal water supply pipe and bring water to the pump, as well as the PVC suction pipe.

As an example, check out an actual installation of the RB-750 pump by a homeowner - layout, connections, and discharge.

Do-It-Yourself "Push-On" Plumbing Kit

For homeowners who have never done any plumbing whatsoever but could handle a Lego set. Or for plumbers who want to save almost half of the installation time. No soldering, no torch, no glue, and no special tools! No fire hazards or burned fingers. You can tackle the job with a tubing cutter and a pair of channel pliers.

These state-of-the-art push-on fittings make connecting the backup pump to your 3/4" water service quick and easy. Just push a tube into the fitting until it reaches a positive "bottom" and it is sealed! Fast and easy secure connections. No frustrating leaks. If needed, you can turn the fittings to line them up properly. Each connection can be disassembled if needed. The kit includes:

• 1 Tee to tap into the main 3/4" supply line    
• 1 Ball shut-off valve
• 1 Elbow
• 8 Ferrules to reinforce PEX or CPVC piping
• 4 Pipe hangers and 8 screws
• 18" Flexible stainless steel tube
• 1 Male adaptor for the pump

You need to buy straight lengths of 3/4" tubing – PEX or CPVC or copper piping. Using flexible piping, PEX or copper, reduces the number of needed elbows. Feel free to mix copper or PEX tubing. PEX has flexibility and a low price. One push-on elbow is included and you can order extra elbows if needed. The flexible stainless steel tube means that "close is good enough" when bringing in the water piping – it greatly saves on elbows and time. There is no extra shipping cost when ordered with the pump.

Unlike store-sold products, these fittings are the latest design – all-metal (brass), without plastic parts for maximum durability.

Backflow prevention is about safe water

Every water company receives each month several calls from homeowners complaining about "blue water" from their faucets. They and perhaps also their neighbors have been drinking their own toilet tank water which has been colored by toilet bowl cleaner. Instead of a "plumbing code approved" toilet flush valve, they had bought a cheap one.

If a hydrant is turned on or a water main breaks, the sudden loss of water pressure may cause "backsiphonage" and draw pollutants or contaminants into the potable water distribution. If your neighbor is using his garden hose to fill a swimming pool, or to spray pesticides on his lawn, or to flush his radiator, the contaminants may end up in your drinking water due to a sudden backflow. According to an US EPA study, a great majority of homes have a cross-connection to a health hazard.

In spite of regulations and building codes regarding backflow prevention, many products sold to trusting homeowners do not meet these standards. Conspicuous among them are the old-school water-powered pumps that sit inside the sump pit. Avoid them! Submerged in sump water and with a discharge pipe filled with water, they are sure to contaminate the drinking water during a sudden loss in main water pressure. Just check with your local Building Department.

Our pumps have built-in backflow prevention. When hanging on the ceiling with suction and discharge pipes dry, they do not hold any sump water. The main ejector valve has a solid rubber diaphragm, which reliably isolates sump water from the municipal water, and a patented integral check valve which closes the main valve drip-tight by using the pressure of municipal water.

However, if your Building Department insists on a separate and officially approved backflow prevention device, all our pumps have an option for an integral Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB), which is approved by all backflow prevention authorities (ASSE listed 1001, IAPMO listed, CSA certified). The discharge pipe from the pump should be sloping, self-draining – otherwise, the water would run out of the AVB valve. Not suitable for the Easy-Install Kit. A separate discharge outlet is preferred.

Sufficient water flow to the pump

Insufficient water pressure or flow will reduce the pumping rate of the pump or it may not operate at all. Minimize the length of piping and number of elbows to the pump. if you are on a private well, the water pressure is not sufficient and you have to use a battery back-up pump.

1. City water pressure: Required 40 to 100 psi at the pump – a normal range for residential service. You can check with your local water supplier or Building Department, or test it with a standard static pressure gauge.
2. Type of piping: Install using copper or plastic piping approved in your area. Do not connect to or install using galvanized iron pipe (reduced flow due to calcium buildup and a risk of rust or debris breaking loose). Connecting pipe sizes:
   RB-750 ... ½" or ¾"      HB-1000 ... ¾"      CB-1500 ... ¾" or 1"
3. Flow restrictions: The pump must be “teed in” before any devices that reduce pressure, such as filters, stop & waste valves, back-flow preventers, water softeners, or pressure regulator valves (PRV). But if the pressure is too high, connect after a PRV.
4. Household water flow: Pressure alone is not enough - what counts is how much water flow it delivers! Use the "bucket test" below.

The "Bucket Test" of water flow:
Remove the garden hose from an outside spigot and place a 5-gallon bucket under the spout. Open fully the spigot and measure with a watch how long it takes to fill the bucket to its full mark (usually a couple inches from the top). This test is not valid if the line to the hose spigot connects after a water filter or water softener.

The water line to the hose spigot is usually only 1/2" and the spigot itself further restricts the flow. But these restrictions are similar to those inside the pump. (Do not test at the laundry tub, which often has smaller supply tubes and a more restrictive faucet.) You must be able to fill the bucket within the following maximum time for each pump model:
      RB-750 ... 40 seconds (7 gallons/minute)      HB-1000 ... 30 seconds (10 gpm)      CB-1500 ... 20 seconds (15 gpm)

Customers' Feedback

Works like a champ!

I am amazed how well it works!

I am just a software engineer. It took me about 3.5 hours and it was not difficult at all.

The RadonSeal HB-1000 water-powered backup sump pump worked perfect when we tried it.

I actually got very worried because it was quiet and I didn't think it worked. Then, I noticed the water going down in the sump.

(See more at Testimonials page!)

Prices and shipping

Each pump is available in the classic design (separate suction and discharge piping) or with the optional Easy-Install Kit at the same price.

Normally shipped the same or next business day. Delivery by courier in 3 to 5 business days. Valid for the lower 48 states. For express shipping or shipping to other states or Canada, please inquire first about the shipping costs.

Shop with Confidence

Backed up with a 30-Day Customer Satisfaction Guarantee and a 3-Year Manufacturer's Warranty – the longest in the industry.

1. 30-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee Within 30 days of shipment, if not completely satisfied with the pump, it can be returned to the manufacturer for a full refund of the price less shipping charges. You must phone us first and provide your name, address, and phone number. (Please purchase a shipping insurance in case it gets damaged during the return shipment to have a claim against the shipper.)
2. Limited Three-Year Warranty The manufacturer warrants the pumps against defects in material and workmanship for a period of three years from the date of shipment. The manufacturer, at its option, will replace or recondition the product at no charge. Shipping the product back to the manufacturer is at your cost.

Follow-up service: Service and replacement parts are available.

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telephone (203) 225-0366 or toll-free 1-800-472-0603

MADE IN USA
Products not sold through retail stores. Available exclusively from:
Radon Mitigation & Concrete Waterproofing Co.
Novion Inc., 18 L'Hermitage Drive, Shelton, CT 06484 USA
RadonSeal™ is a registered trademark. Copyright © 1998-2009. All rights reserved.

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