Sump pump inflow

aaccckkk!!

How can you tell if one of the inflow drains is cracked or broken? Why is the water that drains into the sump pump not filled with dirt? My sump pump is in a storage closet on a lower, finished level. Not so much rain that pump rarely kicks on. Sometimes bottom of pit dries up without my noticing it. Why should bottom of pit always have water?

TarheelTerp

If installed correctly both the tub and all the pipes are surrounded by gravel
and even filtering membrane that will prevent dirt flowing in.
So... if you don't have dirt that is a VERY good sign.
Xray vision?
If your water table is low, or at least lower than the bottom of the tub, then there's no water to (normally) show up. Mine is like that. Dry as a bone 300 days a year.

aaccckkk!!

Thanks for your reply - I'm actually an old homeowner but new to sump pumps. I think my next move will be to a rental!