High Water Alarm for Sump Pump

High Water Alarm for Sump Pump

High Water Alarm for Sump Pump: How the PTLevel Can Help

When it comes to protecting your basement or crawl space from water damage, a sump pump is the first line of defense. Adding a high-water alarm and a monitoring device like the PTLevel can enhance your system’s reliability and provide peace of mind. Here’s everything you need to know about high water alarms and how they work with sump pumps.


What can the PTLevel do for my Sump?

- high and low liquid level alerts via SMS and email
- no monthly fees required (some upgrades available with the Premium Account)
- constant liquid level monitoring (The Wired WiFi reports every 2 minutes, the Long Range Wireless reports as often as every 4 minutes)
- view your liquid level history over time
- easy, do-it-yourself installation with no special tools or skills
- 2+ years battery life with the Long Range Wireless PTLevel (or no battery requirements with the Wired WiFi)

What Does a High Water Alarm Mean?

A high water alarm alerts you when the water level in your sump pit exceeds the normal range and approaches a critical level. This warning helps you act quickly to avoid flooding, which could result from a pump failure, overwhelmed system, or excessive groundwater.

Each PTLevel comes with 2 free alert points; that means you get notified via SMS or email every time your liquid level goes above or below that level. The alert point is set by you. We recommend for sump monitoring that you set a high alert and a low alert. If the level goes above you high point, you know your sump is either not working or not keeping up with the water demand. If you get a low alert, you know your pump is likely stuck "on" which can cause unnecessary pump damage or pump burn out.

How Much Water Should Trigger a Sump Pump to turn on?

A sump pump is designed to activate when water reaches a preset level. Often the present level is about 6 to 12 inches below the top of the sump pit. This range depends on the pump’s specifications and the size of the pit.

What to Do When a High Water Sump Alarm Goes Off?

  1. Check the Sump Pump: Ensure it’s operational and not clogged.
  2. Verify Power Supply: Confirm the pump is receiving power. Check for blown fuses or tripped breakers.
  3. Inspect the Discharge Line: Ensure it’s not frozen, clogged, or obstructed.
  4. Use a Backup Pump: If the primary pump fails, activate a battery-powered or secondary pump.
  5. Call a Professional: If you can’t resolve the issue, seek expert assistance. (Google "Sump Pump Repair Company" and you should have some local choices!)

Can You Put an Alarm on a Sump Pump?

Yes, you can install a high water alarm in your sump pump system. Devices like the PTLevel monitor water levels and send alerts to your phone or email when water exceeds the threshold.

As of 2017, the Ontario Building Code requires all new homes to have a sump. The Ontario Building Code and insurance companies do not require sump pump alarms.

Can You Put a High Water Alarm in a Basement Sump?

Absolutely! The PTLevel is a perfect solution for monitoring basement sump pits. Its sensors provide real-time updates, and the system’s enabled alerts through SMS texting and email ensure you’re informed wherever you are.

What Triggers a Sump Alarm?

A sump alarm from the PTLevel is triggered by:

  • High Levels: Rising water levels beyond a specific threshold (selected by you).
  • Low Levels: Lowering levels beyond your low level setpoint.

How High Should the Water Level Be in a Sump Pump?

The water level should remain low, ideally just enough to cover the pump’s intake. Excessive water levels can indicate a problem with the pump or drainage system.

Is It Normal for a Sump Pump to Run Every 20 Seconds?

No, frequent cycling can indicate:

  • An undersized sump pit.
  • A stuck float switch.
  • A high water table.
  • A malfunctioning check valve.
    You may need to investigate and adjust the system to avoid wear and tear on the pump.

Can I Monitor My Sump Pump Remotely?

Yes, with devices like the PTLevel, you can monitor your sump pump remotely. The PTLevel uses WiFi to provide real-time data and alerts, allowing you to track water levels from your smartphone or computer.

How Much Does It Cost to Put in a Sump Alarm?

Depending on the model the PTLevel costs between $250-$350 CAD or $210-$300 USD, including free shipping within Canada and the USA. While the PTLevel may be a larger investment, its long-term benefits include precise monitoring, wireless alerts, and easy installation into all sumps. Plus it includes excellent customer support and a 2 year warranty.

By pairing your sump pump with the PTLevel, you can ensure your home stays dry and protected, even during extreme weather conditions. The peace of mind provided by remote monitoring and real-time alerts is priceless!


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