May 08/2021

Why Is My Sump Pump Constantly Running?

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, over 60 percent of homes in the U.S. suffer from below-ground wetness. A sump pump is an invaluable device, especially if you live in a property that lies in areas under the waterbed, prone to floods, or get a lot of snow. Though it works around the clock, it should not be running constantly. If your sump pump is constantly running, then it runs the risk of wearing out its motor prematurely. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey has plenty of experience with sump pumps and we are happy to share some insight on sump pumps that are constantly running. We recommend you check three common culprits: the float switch, check valve, and discharge pipe. If you have any specific questions or concerns, feel free to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey.

Check the Float Switch

The float switch is what senses when the sump pump should turn on. The float rests on the surface of the water in the sump pit and rises or falls along with the water level. When the water rises to a certain level, it lifts the float and triggers the switch that initiates the pumping sequence. Water is pulled out and discharged through the discharge pipe until the water level, and float, returns to the neutral point.
If the float switch gets stuck, it will keep the pump activated. Check to make sure that the float and its arm are not tangled or stuck on electrical cords. If it is tangled, then turn off the power and untangle the parts. If there is no obstruction, then the float switch may be faulty and need to be replaced. Check the other possibilities before replacing the float switch though.

The Check Valve

A check valve allows water to flow out of the sump pit but prevents that same water from returning. If the check valve is faulty, then it will allow the wastewater to return into the sump pit, causing a nonstop loop that continuously triggers the sump pump.
Take a look at your check valve. It should be held in place with sturdy ring clamps and not worn out. If the check valve is improperly installed or worn out, then remove it to take with you to the local hardware store for a replacement purchase. Head back home and swap out the old part with the new one.

Clogged Discharge Pipe

The wastewater pumped out of the sump pit needs somewhere to go. That is where the discharge pipe comes in. However, the discharge pipe can become clogged with sediment and debris, sending water back up to the sump pit. This is obviously going to activate the sump pump and lead to an ever-running pump.
Grab a plunger or drain snake to loosen up the blockage. If these methods do not work, then you can call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey to hire a m. We are available around the clock to take your call and dispatch a professional plumber.