Sump pump vs. sewage ejector pump: running cost
A sump pump is cheaper to run: about $16 a year versus $16 for a sewage ejector pump at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $1 difference.
| Sump pump | Sewage ejector pump | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 800 W | 1,000 W |
| Watt range | 400–1,300 W | 600–2,000 W |
| Typical use | 18 minutes a day | 15 minutes a day |
| Energy per year | 88 kWh | 91 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 14¢ | 18¢ |
| Cost per day | 4.3¢ | 4.5¢ |
| Cost per month | $1.31 | $1.37 |
| Cost per year | $16 | $16 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $38 | $40 |
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What drives the difference
- Sump pump: A 1/3 hp sump pump draws about 700-900 W while pumping; run time varies hugely with groundwater, from near zero to several hours a day in spring.
- Sewage ejector pump: Sewage ejector and grinder pumps of 1/2-2 hp draw 0.8-2 kW but run only a few minutes a day.
Ways to cut either cost
Protects the basement during outages.
See options on AmazonDiverting roof water away cuts how often the pump runs.
See options on AmazonAlerts you before a failing pump floods the basement.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a sump pump or a sewage ejector pump?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a sewage ejector pump costs about $16 a year versus $16 for a sump pump. That's $1 more.
How many watts do sump pump and sewage ejector pump use?
A sump pump typically draws 800 W (range 400–1,300 W). A sewage ejector pump draws 1,000 W (range 600–2,000 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.