Why it matters
The CITS-50 pairs a 1/2 HP cast iron primary with a PSC copper-wound motor and a battery backup, preassembled and preplumbed. Basement Watchdog states the primary moves 73 GPM (4,400 GPH) at 0 ft and 59 GPM (3,540 GPH) at 10 ft.
The backup controller monitors pump, power and battery around the clock, sounding an alarm and describing what to do. Add the CONNECT Wi-Fi module (sold separately) for text, email and app alerts. It works with AGM or wet-cell batteries, and two batteries in parallel double the runtime.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Good fit if
- Owners who want alerts
- Finished basements
- Replacing a tired primary
Look elsewhere if
- Small pits
- Owners who won't maintain a battery
- Tight budgets
Pros and cons
Pros
- Cast iron primary
- 24/7 monitoring
- Wi-Fi capable
Cons
- Wi-Fi module extra
- Battery extra
- Higher price
Limitations to weigh
- Battery backups need a separate 12 V deep-cycle battery unless one is included; check the battery's age every year.
- Fit a check valve on the discharge so water in the pipe doesn't fall back into the pit after each cycle.
- Maximum head is where flow drops to zero; at your lift the pump moves less than its maximum flow. Size it with the sizing calculator.
Specifications
Every figure below comes from the source shown in brackets. Where the maker doesn't state something, we say so instead of estimating.
| Material | Cast Iron (Primary); Plastic (Backup) | Retailer |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (seller) | 8.75"L x 11.75"W x 18"H | Retailer |
| Product weight | 27 lb | Retailer |
| Max flow (maker) | 73.3 GPM | Retailer |
| Max head / lift (maker) | 25 ft | Retailer |
| Voltage | 12 V DC | Retailer |
| Model number | CITS-50 | Retailer |
| Warranty | Warranty | Retailer |
Alternatives worth comparing
More backup sump pumps we cover
- Liberty Pumps PC257-442 Combo
- Pumps-A-Lot WP25 Water-Powered Pump
- Liberty Pumps SumpJet SJ10 Water-Powered Backup
- Superior Pump 91012 12 Volt Utility Pump
All backup sump pumps, compared in one table · Every Basement Watchdog product we cover
Final verdict
The combo to choose if you want monitoring.
Where to buy
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