When I moved in here 2 years ago the sump pumps (have 2) very rarely came on - I did have backup issues (the sewer & sump pumps are on the same line) The reason was tree roots. Recently we decided to air compress the pipe lines to rid the roots. Now, all of a sudden my sump pump decides to run about every 10 min. there is also a few water spots on the floor - never noticed before. Now we have had a lot of rain in the past month - but why did the pumps not kick in then - Is this because the water is settled in the ground. Just curious.

Do the sump pits fill with water or dothe pumps just kick on by themselves? Regards, Tom

They fill with water.

Then that would indicate a raising ground water level. Be thankful that you have sump pumps to carry it away.
Another could be a underfloor leak in the water system. Is this clear water in the sump? Regards, Tom

Yes it is clear water. The house was built in the late 40's (Wartime houses). I do live close to the river and I am the last house on the Hill (low end) so I assume that is part of the reason.