Pros
- Easy installation praised in reviews, even during active water inflow
- Quiet operation and strong lift performance up to 25 feet
- Long-term reliability with units lasting 5-15 years in heavy use
- Versatile battery options including dual AGM for extended runtime
- Comprehensive controller simplifies maintenance and troubleshooting
Cons
- Vertical height may require plumbing adjustments in shallow sumps
- Backup pump underpowered for very high lifts in some setups
- Rare early failures reported with main pump float switches
The Basement Watchdog Big Combo CONNECT CITS-50 is a robust sump pump system designed for homeowners in flood-prone or high-water-table areas. It combines a powerful 1/2 HP cast iron primary pump with a reliable battery backup pump, all preassembled with check valves, elbows, and measured piping for straightforward installation. Ideal for those seeking peace of mind without professional help, it excels in keeping basements dry during heavy rains or power failures.
Standout features include two dual microreed float switches per pump for superior redundancy, a smart controller offering 24/7 monitoring of pump, power, and battery status, and compatibility with an optional WiFi module for remote alerts. Real-world performance shines in reviews, with users reporting quiet operation, impressive lift up to 25 feet, and seamless backup activation that prevented flooding over extended outages. The system pumps up to 4400 GPH from the primary at 0 feet, dropping to 3540 GPH at 10 feet, while the backup delivers 2600 GPH at 0 feet.
Build quality reflects over 30 years of expertise, using premium components like a permanent split capacitor motor for efficiency and an automatic 1.6-amp charger for battery maintenance. The compact 8.75 x 11.75 x 18-inch footprint fits most pits, though some users noted fit challenges in custom setups requiring minor PVC adjustments. Durability is proven in long-term use, but isolated reports of float issues highlight the need for periodic checks.
Drawbacks are minor: the backup may struggle with extreme heads, and installation demands precise measurements. Overall, this system earns high marks for reliability and user-friendliness, making it a top choice for proactive basement protection. Verdict: Highly recommended for DIY-savvy homeowners prioritizing performance and monitoring.
Key Specs:
- Power Source: AC & Battery
- Primary Pump: 4400 GPH @ 0 ft, 3540 GPH @ 10 ft (1/2 HP Cast Iron)
- Backup Pump: 2600 GPH @ 0 ft, 1850 GPH @ 10 ft
- Max Lift: 25 Feet
- Flow Rate: 73.3 GPM
- Voltage: 12V DC (Backup)
- Dimensions: 8.75"L x 11.75"W x 18"H
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Material: Cast Iron (Primary), Plastic (Backup)
- Model: CITS-50
Choose this if you have a deep sump pit and frequent water issues. Pair with Basement Watchdog AGM batteries for maintenance-free operation and add the BW-WiFi2 module for remote monitoring. Test floats regularly and ensure pit depth accommodates 19-inch subtract measurement for discharge pipe. Avoid if your setup has very low headroom without modifications.