How Often Should the Sump Pump Run?

You likely have a sump pump if your home has a basement. The sump pump is a simple part vital to your home’s water system. It protects the basement from flooding, saving you from paying for expensive repairs in your home.

Even though the sump pump is essential in our homes, most people don’t know how it works. Specifically, most homeowners don’t know how often the sump pump should be running.

You have come to the right place to know how long the sump pump should run. This guide will discuss how the sump pump works and how often it should run. Read on to learn more!

How Often Should a Sump Pump Run?

A sump pump should run only whenever it is needed. In simpler terms, a sucking pump should only run whenever specific water levels are met. Although this is not a direct answer, it is the most accurate.

For instance, your sump pump should run pretty often if you live in a rainy area. In extremely rainy conditions, sump pumps can run several times a day. In contrast, dry areas with less rainfall will likely use a sump pump less often.

Why Is My Sump Pump Constantly Running?

If you notice that the sump pump is running excessively or constantly, there are several possible reasons why. Elemental factors, such as ground grade around your area, could be one of the factors.

It could also indicate that your sump pump has broken and needs urgent mechanical repairs. Here are some of the common reasons why your sump pump is constantly running:

Elemental Factors

Elemental factors often cause a sump pump to run occasionally. However, these factors will not make it run constantly. Nonetheless, you will notice the sump pump running even when it is not raining. Here are some of the common elemental factors that cause the sump pump to run constantly and what you should do about it;

Negative Ground Grade

A negative ground grade around your home’s foundation might result in rainwater draining toward your home instead of away. This increases the chances of flooding and causing damage. To fix it, install a sump pump and build up a grade to redirect it. A general contractor or landscaper can get this job done appropriately.

Drain Tile and Groundwater Level

The drain tile and groundwater level around your home might also force water to collect at the lowest level, like your basement. You may not be able to prevent that, but investing in a good sump pump will prevent flooding possibilities.

You should also try adding waterproof paint that prevents water entry into the basement. Professionally sealing your basement will also help.

Broken Underground Water Main

When there is a broken underground water main, you can experience many problems. You can test this by shifting off the water main to see if the problem is averted. You can also test for chlorine within the sump pump and see if the conditions are met.

How a Sump Pump Works

How a sump pump works is straightforward. On any regular day, your sump pump should be on standby. This means that the device should be running nonstop. Remember that the sump pump only activates whenever your home starts to flood.

These devices come with a type of float switch crucial for operations. High water levels can activate the float switch, and it turns on the pump prompt. A part of the sump pump is submerged within the pit.

As your home becomes over-saturated, water will build up in the pit. With high water levels, the float switch activates, and water is drained from the pit. It is then safely taken from your home to a drain, detention pond, dry well, or another reservoir.

This protects your home greatly because it prevents groundwater from flooding the entire floor or basement.

A Broken Sump Pump

If your sump pump is constantly running when there is no water within its surroundings, something is wrong with it. Since sump pumps are exposed to excessive water, they frequently break down. Whenever you notice that your sump pump has mechanical problems, it is vital to fix it immediately.