Product Manual

Page 8
Battery Instructions
The Basement Watchdog Emergency Standby
Battery has been designed to run this system 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.
• The use of automotive batteries is NOT recom-
mended. 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.
Do not use the enclosed battery cap on any
battery except a Basement Watchdog battery.
Do not drill a hole in the cap of another brand
of battery to accommodate the fluid sensor.
Batteries emit explosive gases, which can
cause serious injury or death.
PREPARING THE BASEMENT WATCHDOG
STANDBY BATTERY
The Basement Watchdog batteries are shipped dry
(without acid) so they never lose power before you
take them home. A battery is activated when the
acid is added, and then it slowly begins to
deteriorate as it ages. By adding the acid just
before use, the battery will always be fresh. Use
1.265 specific gravity battery acid to fill the battery.
It is available where you purchased the battery.
Wear eye and clothing protection. If battery
acid contacts skin or clothing, wash
immediately with soap and water. If acid
enters eyes, flush with water for 10 minutes
and get medical attention. Review the safety
instructions on page 1.
1. Remove the battery box top by pushing in the tabs
on the front and back of the box and lifting up.
2. Place the battery box on the floor. Place the dry
(unfilled) battery into the battery box. Remove
the foil seal on the top of the battery.
3.(a) Carefully push in the perforated tab at the
top of the acid pack. Lift up the large tab and
pull out the dispensing hose. Hold the hose
upright above the pack and squeeze the hose
forcing all the acid back into the pack. (b)
Position the acid pack and battery as shown at
the right. Pinch the end of the hose together
and cut off the tip. Insert the end of the hose
into each cell. Control the flow by pinching the
hose with thumb and forefinger. Fill each cell
of the battery to a level just covering the
battery plates, and then go back and top off
each cell equally. It is important to have the
cells filled equally or the battery will not
operate properly. The acid should reach a level
just below the cap rings. (Diagram E)
A newly filled battery will sometimes require
additional acid after about ten minutes. Re-
examine the fill level and add additional acid, if
necessary. The battery acid may bubble at this
time and give off a sulfur-like smell, but this is
normal. After the battery has been filled, screw
the caps on the top of the battery.
When you fill the battery for the FIRST time, it will
be the ONLY time you add acid to the battery. In
the future, when the fluid level is low, add distilled
water to the cells. Never add more acid.
Do not throw an old battery in the
trash. Take it to a service station or
recycling center.
2nd LEVEL
1st LEVEL
PLATES
CELL WALL
1. FILL TO 1st LEVEL, COVER THE PLATES

2. THEN FILL TO 2nd LEVEL, JUST BELOW
THE BOTTOM OF THE CAP RINGS
BATTERY TERMINALS
BATTERY CAP RINGS
CROSS SECTION OF BATTERY
Diagram E
1
2
3a
3b
CAUTION
!
DANGER
!
DANGER
CAUTION