Can a sump pump be plugged into a GFCI outlet?

My web search turned up an old article by you where you say, “actually, your sump pump shouldn’t be on a GFCI but rather on a dedicated non-GFCI outlet because sump pump motors can sometimes wreak havoc with GFCIs as can freezers and refrigerators so be sure they are plugged into unprotected outlets or you may end up

Does sump pump require dedicated circuit?





The power supply to a sump pump should not only have a dedicated outlet, but should also be a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. The sump pump needs its own circuit breaker to prevent tripping of the breaker and the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is essential in preventing electrical shock.

What type of outlet is needed for a sump pump?

Electrical Wiring for a Sump Pump Circuit
The wire size that should be used for the 20 amp septic sump pump circuit should be #12 gauge. The sump pump should be protected by either a GFCI outlet or a GFCI circuit breaker.

Can I plug my sump pump into a regular outlet?

While most electrical outlets near water in your home need to be GFCI protected for health and safety reasons, your sump pump is one device that needs to be connected to an outlet without GFCI. The reason being is that water can trip the circuit, turning off any device plugged into it.

Why is my sump pump tripping my GFCI?

Your septic pump or sump pump breaker may have tripped due to a water leak or moisture. The GFCI breaker will detect the presence of water or moisture in the pump wiring or inside the motor and will trip instantly. That is also why it is advisable to plug your pump into a GFCI breaker.

Do you need a GFI for a sump pump?





There is no NEC requirement for GFCI protection for a sump pump. The 2008 NEC removed the exception for 120 volt non-GFCI receptacles in dedicated spaces in garages and unfinished basements. If the location of the sump pump *receptacle *requires GFCI protection then you must have GFCI protection.

Does a sump pump need a 20 amp circuit?

Re: Sump Pump Wiring ???
It need not have 20 amp receptacles, however. If it’s a 15 amp circuit, either #12 or #14 could be used, as a lower amp circuit can always safely use wire rated for a higher amp circuit.

How many amps does a sump pump draw?

If the motor is like 80% efficent, then your continuous could be 373/0.8 = 466 watts. But they say the startup draw can be 1.5x-2x the continuous draw.. so you might consume up to 900+ watts. That’s roughly 7.8 Amps.

Are GFCI required in basements?

GFCI receptacles are required in bathrooms, garages, crawl spaces, basements, laundry rooms and areas where a water source is present.

Can I use a surge protector with a sump pump?



Sump Pumps
Because most power strips are not designed to be used in damp or wet conditions, they’re unsuitable for use with a sump pump. Instead, plug a sump pump into a GFCI outlet, preferably one installed some height above the floor in case flooding ever does occur.

Do sump pumps need to be AFCI protected?

Yes, you need AFCI protection.

Why would a pump trip a GFCI?

The reason the pump works in non GFCI outlets is that GFCI are designed to “trip” when they detect an electrical bleed. It is a safety thing. Now sometimes the GFCI go bad and need to be replaced. It is recommended to check your GFCI monthly.

Can a sump pump electrocute you?



Even a small amount of water on a basement floor can put you at risk for electrocution. While electricity is needed to run the sump pumps and wet-vacs that help remove water from a basement, the risk of electrical shock is high. Safety experts suggest using a generator to power your sump pump or wet/dry vacuum instead.

What should water level be in sump pit?

The water should not be that high in the sump. It should be down to around the 2-3″ level inside.

What happens to sump pump when power goes out?

Unfortunately, they almost always run on electricity and will stop pumping water if the power goes out. When this happens, water still continues to flow inside without a way to leave, causing build up of water which happens quickly. Sometimes a sump pump may even lose power even if the rest of the house doesn’t.

Should sump pump sit at bottom of pit?

Most sump pumps are placed on a bed of gravel at the bottom of pit with a discharge pipe hooked to the circular ring on the left side of the unit. If installed properly, your sump pump collects all excess water surrounding your house.

Should a sump pump be fully submerged?



Pedestal Sump Pump
It becomes activated by the float that is mounted on the side of the pedestal. The pedestal’s motor isn’t sealed and therefore can’t be completely submerged. It can short out the motor, as well as create a shock risk in standing water. Sump pumps were designed to be submerged in water.

How far from house should sump pump discharge?

Drain Your Sump Pump Away From Your House
You’ll want your sump pump’s discharge point to be at least 10 feet (3.05 m) away from your home’s foundation. If you want to be extra cautious, 20 feet (6.10 m) is also a good option. Extending the distance in this way can protect your home’s foundation from water damage.