How Often Should a Sump Pump Run?

Don’t let flash floods put a damper on your plans. Call Gladiator Services at 201-571-1715 for Hillsdale’s reliable sump pump services.

Does your house feature a basement or crawlspace? If so, you likely have a sump pump. The sump pump protects the lower-most areas of your home from water infiltration, flash floods, and other water disasters. 

If you aren’t familiar with sump pumps, you might have questions about them. For example, how often should a sump pump run? How does this equipment operate? Our team at Gladiator Services provides a few answers below! 

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a type of pump designed to fit into the corner of a crawlspace or basement. While all homes with subterranean levels should have sump pumps, these appliances are absolutely essential for:

• Buildings located near bodies of water
• Buildings constructed on a downhill slope where water travels
• Properties developed in a flood zone

These pumps can also assist with burst pipes leaking into the basement or crawlspace area. 

How Do Sump Pumps Work?

Like other varieties of pumps, sump pumps have basic float switches that detect surrounding water levels. When the float switch reaches a certain level, it initiates the water elimination sequence. The pump draws water from the crawlspace area, releasing it outside your home. There, the water will redirect and travel away from the building's foundation. 

You should have one of two different pump models in your home: the pedestal sump pump and the submersible sump pump. Both perform the same function. However, you can install them differently depending on the type.

Most submersible pumps stay in a dug-out hole. It takes up less space in your crawlspace. Many homeowners prefer this model because of its durability and quality. However, it requires substantial flooding to trigger the pump operations. It is also prone to prematurely rusted components.

On the other hand, pedestal sump pumps cost less than their submersible counterparts. They are also more sensitive to lower water levels. However, they also overheat more readily and make more noise. 

When Should Sump Pumps Run?

Sump pumps should remain on standby at all times. During dry, sunny weather, they shouldn’t operate or attempt to cycle water out of your home. However, they should switch on as soon as they detect excess water. 

Your sump pump should run when a sufficient water level collects around it and triggers the signal from the float switch. It should then start pumping water out of your house. Beyond circumstances involving basement floods, your pump should not remain fully activated. 

How Often Should a Sump Pump Run?

So, how often should a sump pump run on any given day? Your sump pump should only run when a sufficient water level triggers it. So, a house near a flood plain may have a sump pump that runs frequently during the rainy season. However, pumps in relatively dry areas with little rainfall won’t operate as frequently. 

In other words, your sump pump should only run when water floods your basement. Floods might occur due to heavy rainfall, copious ice melt, or burst pipes. Your sump pump should remain inactive under any other circumstances. 

Why Would a Sump Pump Run When It Shouldn’t?

Your sump pump might run at inappropriate times if a component sends the wrong message about the water level. For example, a faulty float switch could communicate a flood even though your basement is dry as a bone. That said, your sump pump may also run for other reasons. 

The check valve prevents pumped water from returning to your basement. If the check valve sustains damage, it may not function properly and allow pumped water to return to your home. Your pump will continuously detect high water levels, triggering the pump function. 

Another reason your pump may ceaselessly operate is a clogged intake screen. The clog prevents water from circulating through the pump. Therefore, the water level remains stable as the pump can't remove it. 

How To Prevent Common Sump Pump Issues 

Periodically inspect your pump to gauge its functions. If you see debris surrounding the device, remove it. Keep the area clean to ensure proper water detection and disposal.

You can also seal your crawl space or basement area inside and outside. Quality sealants will prevent excess water from infiltrating your home, thus limiting the sump pump functions. It could also save your foundation and belongings in the long run.

Ideally, you should maintain your sump pump every three to four months for optimal performance. If regular maintenance doesn’t improve how your pump operates, seek professional repair services from qualified technicians. 

When To Repair Your Sump Pump

Sump pumps may require professional repair services when their components don’t work properly or they have clogs deep within the pump system. Some common issues that require expert assistance include:

• Inappropriate pit size: Groundwater levels can change over the years, so your original pump pit may not fit your home’s current needs. A technician can test your current water levels and recommend a solution. 
• Not enough pump power: Most pump models can remove 25 gallons of water per minute. However, your needs may exceed this amount, depending on your location and water table. A professional can recommend the best pump size for your home and install it. 
• Broken components: Check valves, discharge lines, and other parts can fall into disrepair, causing your sump pump to stop working properly. An expert can diagnose and replace the problematic part. 

Choose Gladiator Services for Affordable Sump Pump Repair Services

How often should a sump pump run? The answer depends on your local water table and whether it affects your home’s foundational floor. If your sump pump doesn’t run when expected, contact our professionals at Gladiator Services. We’ll send a technician to inspect your pump and advise you of the steps to take to protect your home’s foundation. 

Have other pertinent plumbing questions? Call 201-571-1715 for answers from Gladiator Services’ plumbing experts.