Down spouts and sump pumps extensions

[Doc_Bob]

As I ride my bicycle to and from work, I notice that many folks have 50-foot extension on the sump discharge pipes. I have the same thing on mine. What I find curious is that many have no extension or small 3-4 ft extensions on the down spouts for their roof gutters. My down spout extensions are about 15 feet.



Simple question, am I unnecessarily worrying about 1-2 thousand gallons coming off of my roof during a downpour? Should I make my extension longer or shorter? I think I know the answer, but thought I would find out what folks in this forum do and think.
Bob

 

[MikePA]

The further away from the house you can get, the better. Having said that, if you aren't seeing water getting into your basement, 15 feet should be fine.