There are GFCI outlets that have indicator LEDs on them, like this one:
If you put this in the living space, then connect the sump receptacle (a normal, non-GFCI receptacle) to the "load" side of this outlet, it will also be protected. If it trips, the light will be out and you'll know it.
To make it more obvious, you could plug a nightlight into this outlet.
Even better, plug in an "emergency rechargeable flashlight": the kind that plug into the wall, but turn on automatically when you unplug them or the power goes out.
This would more readily draw attention: if the light is on, there is a problem.
There used to be an exception to the code, that said that a sump pump didn't have to be on a GFCI if it was on a dedicated circuit, and it was connected using a single receptacle*. And by "single receptacle" they meant a non-duplex receptacle. One like this...
With that said, "officially" there should be no problem with having a sump pump on a GFCI circuit. Unofficially, there are sometimes problems with sump pumps on GFCI circuits. The manufacturers are supposed to reduce or eliminate any leakage current, However, nobody sent the memo to manufacturers so they don't always get it right. Because of this, you may find that a sump pump does trip a GFCI from time to time.
If the GFCI was tripping every time, and immediately. You'll want to first verify that:
- There is not a ground-fault in the sump pump.
- The GFCI wiring is correct.
- The GFCI is not faulty.
- The GFCI was manufactured within the past 3-4 years.
- The GFCI is rated for the proper current draw.
- The circuit wiring is correct.
If all of this checks out, you may wan to consider using a single receptacle to connect the sump pump. While it's not up to code, a slight electric shock hazard may be preferable to a flooded house. Though a house flooded with electrified water, might not be the best thing ever.
WARNING:
It is not safe, or up to current code to install a sump pump using a non-GFCI receptacle. And I am not telling you to do so.
I will say that a sump pump installation does not require the circuit to which the pump is connected to be upgraded, if the pump is connected to the circuit in a cord and plug configuration.
**citation needed*
Best Answer
NEC 210.70 Lighting Outlets Required 210.70(3) Storage or Equipment Spaces ...control shall be at the usual point of entry to these spaces...The lighting outlet shall be at or near the equipment..
A sump isn't specified as needing a dedicated circuit, but circuit ampacity, location of disconnecting means, and manufacturer instructions would come into play for the exact pump installed. If the sump is considered NEC 210.23(2) Utilization Equipment Fastened in Place it can't exceed 50% of the branch circuit rating of a shared circuit. Otherwise if not fastened in place then a cord connected plug is limited by NEMA and NEC 210.21(B)(2) to 12A on 15A plug and 16 on a 20A so circuit capacity to add lighting could be assumed adequate. AHJ interpretation could come into play.
If your installation or circuit ampacity requires a dedicated circuit for the sump, then Section 210.8 which specifies most of the locations GFCI protect is needed applies to receptacles not lighting outlets (at least through NEC 2017).