AquaGuard is a basement waterproofing system that uses interior drainage and a sump pump

AquaGuard is an interior waterproofing system designed to manage water that enters your basement. Instead of stopping water at the foundation wall (exterior waterproofing), AquaGuard collects water that has already come inside, channels it along the basement floor, and pumps it out through a sump pump. The system consists of a perimeter drain line, a collection basin, and an electric pump that runs when water reaches a certain level.

The system is installed along the interior perimeter of your basement, typically running around the base of the walls where they meet the floor. When groundwater or seepage enters through cracks, porous concrete, or the foundation joint, it flows into the drain channel. From there it moves to a sump basin (a pit dug into the floor), where a pump automatically activates and sends the water outside and away from your home.

AquaGuard is manufactured by Basement Systems, a company that franchises the installation through licensed dealers in different regions. The system comes with a warranty that varies by component — the pump, basin, and drain line each have their own coverage period. You will need to contact a local AquaGuard dealer to get a site inspection, pricing, and installation timeline for your specific basement.

Key Takeaways

  • AquaGuard collects water that enters your basement and pumps it out, rather than preventing water from entering in the first place.
  • The system includes a perimeter drain channel, a sump basin, and an electric pump that operates automatically when water accumulates.
  • Installation is done by licensed dealers in your region, and the cost and timeline depend on your basement size and water conditions.
  • The system requires electricity to run the pump and periodic maintenance to keep the drain channel and basin clear of debris.
  • AquaGuard covers water seepage and minor flooding but is not designed to handle major foundation cracks or severe structural water intrusion without additional repairs.

How the AquaGuard system is installed in your basement

Installation begins with the dealer inspecting your basement to identify where water enters and how much water typically accumulates. They will assess the foundation condition, check for existing cracks, and determine the best location for the sump basin — usually in a low corner or the area where water collects most.

The installer cuts a trench along the interior perimeter of your basement, typically 6 to 12 inches deep and several inches wide. A plastic drain channel is laid into this trench. The channel has a sloped design that directs water toward the sump basin. The trench is then backfilled with gravel and sealed with concrete or a concrete cap, leaving the drain channel buried but functional beneath the floor surface.

The sump basin is a plastic or concrete pit installed in the floor, usually in a corner. An electric pump sits inside the basin. When water rises to a preset level (typically 8 to 12 inches), a float switch triggers the pump to turn on. The pump pushes water up through a discharge line that runs outside your home, typically to a spot at least 10 feet away from the foundation. Once the water level drops, the pump shuts off automatically.

What the AquaGuard warranty covers

AquaGuard warranties are component-based, meaning each part of the system has its own coverage period and terms. The sump pump itself typically carries a warranty of 5 to 7 years, depending on the model. The basin and drain channel usually have longer warranties, often 10 to 25 years, though this varies by dealer and the specific product line you choose.

Warranties generally cover defects in materials and workmanship — meaning if the pump fails due to a manufacturing flaw or the basin cracks from a material defect, the dealer will repair or replace it at no cost during the warranty period. However, warranties typically do not cover damage from power outages, improper maintenance, or normal wear and tear. You should ask your dealer for a written warranty document that spells out exactly what is and is not covered, as terms can differ between dealers.

Some dealers offer extended warranties or service plans that cover maintenance visits, pump replacement after the standard warranty expires, or emergency service calls. These are optional add-ons and cost extra. It is worth asking whether your dealer offers these and what they include.

Maintenance tasks to keep AquaGuard working

The drain channel can accumulate sediment, dirt, and debris over time, especially if your basement has active seepage. You should have the channel inspected and cleaned periodically — most dealers recommend once a year or more often if you live in a very wet climate. A clogged channel reduces water flow and forces the pump to work harder.

The sump basin itself needs to be checked regularly to make sure it is free of debris and that the pump intake is not blocked. If sediment builds up in the basin, it can damage the pump or prevent it from operating smoothly. Some systems include a sediment filter or screen to reduce this problem, but you will still need to inspect and clean it.

The discharge line — the pipe that carries water outside — should be checked to make sure it is not frozen, clogged, or disconnected. In winter, water can freeze in the discharge line if it is not buried below the frost line or if it is not insulated. In summer, debris or animal nests can block the line. Test the pump occasionally by pouring water into the basin to confirm it activates and pumps water out.

The pump runs on electricity, so a power outage will stop it from working. Some homeowners install a battery backup pump or a generator to keep the system running during an outage. Ask your dealer whether a backup system is recommended for your area and what the cost would be.

AquaGuard versus other interior waterproofing options

Interior waterproofing systems like AquaGuard all work on the same basic principle: collect water inside the basement and pump it out. However, different brands and dealers offer variations in pump size, basin design, drain channel material, and warranty length. Some systems include a backup pump or battery backup as standard; others offer it as an option.

The main difference between AquaGuard and other interior systems is brand reputation, dealer network, and warranty terms. AquaGuard is one of the largest and most widely available interior systems in North America, which means you are more likely to find a dealer in your area and to have parts available if something needs repair. Smaller or regional brands may offer lower upfront costs but may be harder to service later.

Interior systems like AquaGuard are less expensive to install than exterior waterproofing (which involves digging around the outside of your foundation) but do not prevent water from entering your basement — they manage it after it arrives. If you have active seepage or recurring flooding, an interior system is often a practical choice. If you have a single large crack or a structural issue, you may need to repair the crack first or combine the interior system with targeted exterior work.

When AquaGuard may not be the right solution

AquaGuard is designed for seepage and minor to moderate water intrusion. If your basement floods regularly with several inches of water, an interior system alone may not keep up with the volume. In that case, you might need a larger pump, a backup pump, or additional drainage solutions like a French drain or exterior grading work.

If water is entering through a large crack in the foundation, a hole in the wall, or a severely deteriorated joint, the AquaGuard system will collect that water, but you should also have the crack or hole repaired. Leaving a major defect unrepaired means the system will have to work harder indefinitely, and you risk water damage to your belongings or structural issues over time.

AquaGuard requires electricity to operate. If your basement is in an area prone to power outages and you do not install a backup power source, the pump will not run during an outage, and water can accumulate. In flood-prone areas or regions with frequent storms, a battery backup or generator is worth considering.

How to get a quote and schedule installation

To learn more about AquaGuard for your basement, contact a licensed dealer in your region. Basement Systems maintains a dealer locator on their website where you can enter your zip code and find dealers near you. You can also search online for "AquaGuard dealer near me" or "basement waterproofing [your city]" to find local options.

When you contact a dealer, they will typically offer a free in-home inspection. During this visit, they assess your basement, identify where water is entering, and discuss your options. They will provide a written estimate that includes the cost of materials, labor, and any optional add-ons like a backup pump or extended warranty. Installation timelines vary but typically range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the size of your basement and the dealer's schedule.

Ask the dealer for references from past customers, details about their warranty and service plan, and whether they offer any guarantees on their workmanship. It is also worth getting quotes from at least one other waterproofing company so you can compare pricing and approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AquaGuard stop water from entering my basement?

No. AquaGuard collects water that has already entered your basement and pumps it out. It does not prevent water from seeping through the foundation walls or floor. If you want to stop water before it enters, you would need exterior waterproofing, which is more expensive and invasive. AquaGuard is a management system, not a prevention system.

What happens to AquaGuard if the power goes out?

The pump will not run without electricity, so water will accumulate in the basin and may back up into your basement. If you live in an area with frequent outages or severe storms, ask your dealer about a battery backup pump or a generator. These add to the cost but keep the system running during power loss.

How often does the AquaGuard pump run?

This depends on how much water enters your basement. In a dry season or a basement with minor seepage, the pump might run only a few times a week or less. In a very wet basement or during heavy rain, it could run continuously. The pump is designed to handle this, but frequent running means higher electricity costs and faster wear on the pump.

Can I install AquaGuard myself?

AquaGuard installation requires cutting a trench in your basement floor, installing a sump basin, and running electrical lines to the pump. This is not a typical DIY project. Installation must be done by a licensed dealer to maintain the warranty and to may support the system is properly sized and configured for your basement. Improper installation can lead to poor drainage or pump failure.

What does AquaGuard cost?

Pricing varies widely based on your basement size, the amount of perimeter to be drained, local labor costs, and the specific pump and basin you choose. A typical installation ranges from several thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. Get a written estimate from your dealer that breaks down materials, labor, and any optional services so you know exactly what you are paying for.