A sump pump is designed to run regularly to keep water out of your basement and home. If your sump pump keeps running constantly, it’s a sure sign that something’s wrong. Let’s look at some common reasons yours might be running constantly and what you can do about it. And if your sump pump needs repair or replacement, our pros at Smouse Brothers are here to help.
Common Causes That Could Keep Your Sump Pump Constantly Running
Let’s look at some of the most common reasons that your sump pump is constantly running:
- The float switch is stuck in the “on” position because it’s jammed
- The discharge pipe is blocked with dirt and debris
- A faulty check valve
- The sump pump or liner isn’t the correct size
- The float switch is pinned to the side of the liner
- There’s a high water table or underground spring that’s feeding the sump pump with a continuous water supply
Although some cases, like a blocked discharge pipe, can be easy to fix, others are more complex. When in doubt, call the pros for sump pump services.
How Often Should a Sump Pump Be Running?
The answer to this question depends on your location and the local weather patterns. If you live somewhere that experiences a lot of rain, your sump pump may run a few times daily to push water out of your basement. To understand how often it should run, it’s best to grasp how your sump pump works.
The sump pump typically sits in a liner (or basin) in a sump pit. The sump pit is a gravel-filled space that’s dug out of the corner of your basement or crawl space. The sump pit effectively drains leaking water from your home. If it can’t keep up with the amount of water getting into the basement, the water will enter the sump pump, causing the float valve to activate. When this happens, it pushes the excess water out of your home via a discharge pipe equipped with a check valve to keep water from flowing back into your home.
If any of these components are clogged, faulty, or working inefficiently, your sump pump can begin to run more often (or constantly). When this happens, it can lead to an overworked pump that can become damaged or broken.
What You Should Do if Your Sump Pump Won’t Stop Running
If your sump pump keeps running, you can do a few things. Try these DIY methods first, and if they don’t work, call in the professionals.
- Examine the float switch: This switch senses moisture in the pump and tells it when to kick on. It floats on top of the water and, when triggered, tells the switch to turn on. Examine the float switch to ensure the arm and float are not stuck or tangled.
- Check your discharge pipe: Is the discharge pipe clogged with leaves or dirt? If so, clean it out! Without a way out, water will be sent back into the pump, causing a continuous cycle of water removal. Clean your discharge pipe with a plunger or drain snake to remove sediment and debris.
- Look at the check valve: The check valve is located in the discharge pipe. Its job is to keep water from returning to the sump pump once it’s removed from your home. If something is wrong with the check valve, it can make the sump pump run constantly. Is it positioned correctly? Are the ring clamps in good condition? Does it look worn out and damaged? If so, replace the check valve, and you may solve the problem.
Smouse Bros Can Help With Your Sump Pump Problems!
A sump pump that keeps running is a common issue for Missouri homes, but it should never be ignored. At Smouse Bros, we’re happy to help fix and repair all your home’s major issues. Contact us today for a free estimate with no obligation to purchase so you can determine whether we’re the right fit for you.
Call Today: (417) 988-8201
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