self priming centrifugal mud pump

Why Is My Sump Pump Running Nonstop?

How a Sump Pump Works

A sump pump sits in a pit — usually in your basement or crawl space — and works to remove water that collects around your home’s foundation. It’s triggered by a float switch that rises with water levels. When it hits a certain point, the pump activates and pushes the water out through a discharge pipe, away from your house and hopefully toward a storm drain or safe drainage area. When everything works properly, your pump turns on and off based on need. But if the sump pump is running nonstop, there’s a good chance something has gone wrong.

Why Your Sump Pump Is Constantly Running

If you’re concerned about why your sump pump is constantly running, there are a few common culprits to consider.

Float Switch Issues

A stuck float switch is one of the most frequent problems homeowners experience. The float switch is what tells the pump to start and stop. If it gets stuck — often because of debris or sediment — it can cause the unit to keep running even when water levels are low. Regular inspection and occasional cleaning of the sump pit can go a long way in avoiding this problem. If you notice the switch isn’t moving freely or the pump starts when it shouldn’t, you might need a replacement.

Continuous Groundwater Intrusion

If your home is built in an area with a high water table or poor drainage, groundwater might be consistently entering your sump pit. That means the pump is just doing its job — but a little too often. This can be the reason why your sump pump is constantly running during wet seasons like spring.

Faulty Check Valve

The check valve keeps pumped-out water from flowing back into the sump pit. If it’s not working correctly, water may return through the discharge pipe and cause the system to run more than necessary. This issue creates a frustrating cycle of water being pumped out and then coming right back in. Replacing a worn or malfunctioning valve is relatively simple but makes a big difference in performance.

Improperly Sized Pump or Pit

If your pump is too small for your home or the pit fills up faster than the pump can handle, it could lead to nonstop operation. On the flip side, a pump that’s too powerful can short-cycle, wearing out the motor faster due to frequent startups.

Clogged Discharge Pipe

A blocked discharge line — often due to sediment or debris — can prevent the system from expelling water properly. This backs up water into the pit and causes the pump to keep running without making any real progress. If your sump pump is running nonstop, don’t overlook the discharge pipe, as this component could be behind the issue.

Internal Leaks or Cracks

Sometimes, water can leak back into the sump pit from small cracks in pipes or fittings, causing the cycle to restart again and again. This is more common in older systems with wear and tear, or it could be because the installation wasn’t carried out correctly. Look for signs of moisture around the discharge connection or damp spots near where pipes exit your home.

The Risks of Ignoring a Continuously Running Sump Pump

Letting your sump pump run nonstop without addressing the root cause can lead to several serious issues: Overheating and Burnout, Water Damage, Higher Energy Bills, Backflow Issues