How often should an AC condensate pump run?

A residential HVAC condensate pump should never run continuously or at regular set time intervals; instead, it is designed to operate strictly on an intermittent, as-needed cycle governed entirely by the volume of moisture dripping from your indoor evaporator coil. During peak summer cooling operation when humidity is high, the pump might cycle on for a few seconds every ten to fifteen minutes to empty the accumulated water before shutting off automatically. On cooler or drier days, the pump may only cycle on once every few hours. If your condensate pump runs constantly without stopping, it indicates a stuck float switch, a clogged discharge line preventing water from escaping, or an oversized continuous water leak. You can troubleshoot by inspecting the reservoir. You can verify normal operation when the pump cycles on briefly to empty water and stays off between cycles.