It is recommended to test your sump pump at least once a month by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit to ensure that it is working properly. It's also a good idea to test your sump pump after heavy rain or flooding to make sure it's still in good working order.
There are two main types of sump pumps: pedestal and submersible. A pedestal sump pump sits above the sump pit and uses a long shaft to connect to the impeller, while a submersible sump pump sits in the sump pit and the motor is sealed to protect it from water damage.
If your home is prone to flooding or water leakage in the basement or crawl space, or if you live in an area with high water table, a sump pump may be necessary to protect your home from water damage.