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The pump runs continuously, what do I do?
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Make sure the float switch is properly mounted with the round float hanging below the metal bracket. Make sure the bracket is straight, not on an angle. Once the float switch is activated, it starts a timer that will run the pump about 40-60 seconds before it shuts off. This way it will empty all the water in the sump pit. The pump will not be damaged if it keeps running after all the water has been discharged from the sump.
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No water is being pumped out of the sump pit, whatís wrong?
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The first thing to check is the installation of the pump. Make sure the pump is plugged into the back of the control unit. Second, if a check valve has been used in the installation, make sure it is installed correctly. If it is upside down, no water can pass through it. Make sure the arrow on the valve is pointing up. If you are using 2 check valves, both check valves must be installed below the “Y” connector. Check the operation of the check valve on the main pump. Finally, make sure a 1/8” hole has been drilled in the PVC pipe about 3” above the pump. (See the next tip for further info.) |
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| Why drill the 1/8" hole in the PVC
pipe? |
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The purpose of the 1/8” hole is to prevent the pump from becoming air locked. A pump that is air locked cannot pump water. This hole should be drilled approximately 3” above the pump at a 45° angle directed downward, so the water will flow back into the sump pit. |
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Can I connect two batteries together?
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| Only if they are used on the Basement Watchdog Big Dog system. To do this, the two batteries need to be hooked up in parallel (+) to (+) and (-) to (-). A special cable can be ordered directly from the manufacturer by calling Glentronics at 800-991-0466 option 3. We also recommend using batteries that are the same size and age. |
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Why use a Basement Watchdog battery?
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The Basement Watchdog batteries have been designed specifically to work with the Basement Watchdog backup systems. They are the only batteries that accommodate the fluid sensor, a very important feature for maintaining battery performance. They are constructed to provide longer pumping times than most other batteries, and to last longer in a standby mode…usually 5 to 7 years. |
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What do I use the yellow cap for?
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The yellow cap is used with Basement Watchdog batteries to accommodate the fluid sensor. It is to be placed in the second cell from the positive post. ***Please note that some Basement Watchdog batteries have only 2 long caps with a hole already present in the top of the battery case. If you have this battery the yellow cap will not be needed.***
If you have misplaced your yellow cap please call Glentronics at 800-991-0466, option 3 for a replacement.
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| Why is the battery fluid low alarm
on even after the cells are filled to the proper
level? |
| Be sure to add fluid to all six battery cells, and then place the sensor rod in the correct cell. Acid is only added the first time to activate the battery. Distilled water is used all subsequent times. The sensor rod should be in the second cell from the positive (+) terminal of the battery. If it is in any other cell, it is not measuring correctly. Make sure all 2½ inches of the sensor is inserted in the pre-drilled hole in the battery cap, or in the hole in the battery case, depending on which battery you own. An arrow on the top label points to the correct location. |
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Explain clean battery terminals.
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Over time, corrosion forms on the terminals that connect the battery to the unit. This corrosion is common, but if it is not cleaned off, the battery will not charge properly. The Watchdog has the ability to detect this corrosion and will sound an alarm when it needs cleaning. Use a stiff wire brush or sand-paper to clean the battery terminal posts, the rings on the end of the battery cable, and the wing nuts until they are shiny. See the manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. |
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Why does my battery smell like rotten eggs when I fill it with acid?
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| The smell of rotten eggs is common when the battery is new. When you fill the battery with acid, the initial reaction between the plates and the acid produces sulfur dioxide. It smells like rotten eggs, but it is harmless and will dissipate within a short time. |
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| How long do I have to charge the battery after I add the acid? |
| By adding the acid you are activating the battery. After adding the acid, the battery will be charged 80% to 90% within 15 minutes. It can be used immediately, and the system will complete the charging process once the charger is plugged into the wall. |
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How often should I add water to the battery?
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| For the Basement Watchdog A/C-D/C system, water should be added approximately once a year. For the Basement Watchdog Special or Emergency system, water may be needed every 6 to 9 months. As the battery ages this time may be shortened. If you are adding water every few months, the battery may need replacing or your system may be overcharging the battery, and it needs to be serviced. |
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How long does it take to fully charge a battery after is has been used extensively?
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| It depends on the size of the battery and the sump pump system that is doing the charging. The Big Dog system has a powerful 20-amp charger that will charge a discharged battery in approximately 6 hours. The chargers on the Basement Watchdog Special and Emergency systems are less powerful trickle chargers, and they will take several days to recharge a battery. You could take the battery to a service station for a quicker charge, or hook the battery up to an automotive charger if you have one. Be sure to disconnect the control unit from the battery if you are using an automotive charger. If you don’t the control unit may be damaged and the warranty voided. |
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I just placed my new battery on the system and it is alarming that the battery is low.
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| Give a new battery approximately 24 hours to come to a full charge. If the battery light is still on after 24 hours please contact our service department for additional troubleshooting tips. They can be reached at 800-991-0466 option 3. |
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How do I silence the alarm on my system?
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| On the Basement Watchdog Big Dog and Special systems hold the white button for approximately 5 seconds to silence the alarm for 24 hours. On the Basement Watchdog Emergency slide the switch, located on the front panel, to the left. Please note that not all alarms can be silenced since immediate attention is needed. Please refer to your instruction manual for details. |
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Where do I find the serial number?
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The serial number labels are located on the back of the control units (the boxes with all the lights), not on the pump. |
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On the Basement Watchdog A/C-D/C system, the serial number is on the back of the blue control unit. |
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On the Basement Watchdog Special, the serial number is on the back of the black control unit on the top of the battery box. |
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On the Basement Watchdog Emergency system, the serial number is on the back of the yellow control unit. |
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| Why does my carbon monoxide detector alarm go off
near the battery?
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| Because a carbon monoxide detector cannot differentiate between sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide. Sulfur dioxide, which is emitted by the battery, is not harmful. Move the carbon monoxide detector a little further away from the battery. |
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Does my warranty start from the date of purchase or the date of installation?
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The warranty on all Basement Watchdog products begins at the date of purchase.
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Where can I get help?
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Glentronics, Inc. technical service: 800-991-0466
Website: www.basementwatchdog.com
E-mail: mail@glentronics.com
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