In regions like Nova Scotia where rain and flooding are common, having a sump pump is a necessity for most homeowners.
Sump pumps are crucial in keeping basements dry and protecting your home from water damage.
But when your sump pump runs nonstop, something’s wrong, and ignoring it could mean higher energy bills or costly repairs.
Here are a few reasons as to what could be going on if your sump pump is constantly running.
7 Reasons for Sump Pump Constantly Running
If you have noticed that your sump pump is continuously running or cycling on and off frequently, you likely have a mechanical, electrical, environmental, or installation issue.
To help you determine the problem and how to fix it we have compiled eight of the most common reasons why a sump pump would continuously run.
- Stuck Float Switch
A stuck float switch is one of the most common culprits of a constantly running sump pump.
A float switch sits on the water’s surface in a sump pit, or basin, underneath your basement floor. As the water level rises the float switch also rises triggering the pump. Once activated the pump moves water through the discharge pipe and out of your house.
A jammed float switch will cause the pump to keep running. Luckily, this mechanical failure is usually a quick fix.
Simply inspect the float for obstructions or debris and ensure that the switch moves freely. If it is tangled or jammed, turn off the power manually before cleaning it out.
- Check Valve Failure
Another common mechanical issue could be a check valve failure.
The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit after it’s been pumped out. If the valve is broken, water keeps re-entering the pit, making your pump work overtime.
Simply replacing the check valve should solve this issue.
- Environmental Triggers
Sometimes, it’s not a mechanical failure but the environment itself that’s causing your pump to run non-stop.
For homeowners who live close to an underground spring or in an area with a high water table, the sump pump has to continuously work, even when it hasn’t rained.
Heavy rains and snowmelt can also overwhelm a sump pump, especially if it’s not sized appropriately for your home. The water keeps flowing in, and the pump can’t get a break.
The only option in such cases would be to install a second pump to handle the excess workload and be a backup in case the first pump fails.
- Underground Leak or Leaking Discharge Pipe
When an underground sewage line bursts or the drain line from a pool or sprinkler system has a leak it causes your pump to run more frequently or even constantly.
The same is the case with a leaking discharge pipe. Discharge pipes are usually made from PVC and they can easily break, crack, or get clogged causing water to seep right back into the sump pit.
Calling a professional plumber would be the best way to deal with such an issue.
- Faulty Wiring
Electrical problems can also mess with your sump pump’s operation.
Faulty wiring or a GFCI outlet malfunction can cause the pump to turn on or off intermittently or stay on without shutting off.
Regular electrical inspections can help catch these issues before they become bigger problems.
- Broken Impeller
Every sump pump has an impeller or fan that spins to push water out from the sump pit and through the discharge pipe.
If the impeller is stuck or broken it won’t move water. The motor will keep running as the water level in the sump pit will not decrease.
Replacing the impeller would resolve this issue.
- Improper Installation
If your sump pump is too small for your home’s needs or was installed incorrectly, it might run continuously just trying to keep up.
Always ensure the right size pump is installed in the lowest point of your basement.
Cost Implications
A sump pump that runs continuously will inevitably drive up your energy bills. It will also wear out your motor resulting in expensive repairs or replacements down the line.
Investing in a high-efficiency pump might cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run, especially when combined with regular maintenance.
Preventive Strategies
When selecting a sump pump, make sure it’s the right size for your basement and consider adding a battery backup to keep things running during power outages.
For DIY maintenance, regularly clean the sump pit, inspect the float switch, and test the pump before rainy seasons to ensure everything is working smoothly.
Advanced Sump Pump Technologies
Modern sump pumps come with tech upgrades like Flood Alert Sytems that have remote monitoring capabilities.
These allow homeowners to keep an eye on their system via smartphone, ensuring they catch issues early.
Common Misconceptions
There are a few myths out there about sump pumps. One is that they should never run frequently. That’s not true. A sump pump can run constantly if you live in a flood-prone area or have a high water table.
Another misconception is that sump pumps have unlimited capacity. They don’t. Every pump has its limits, and if it’s constantly running, it might be overwhelmed.
Many homeowners also have the misconception that a sump pump installation is a one time investment. That’s not the case. Every sump pump has a lifespan and even the best models need replacement at some point, depending on usage.
Sump Pump & Plumbing Services Near Me
If your sump pump is running constantly, don’t wait for a flood to figure out what’s wrong. Whether it’s a stuck switch, high water table, or electrical fault, addressing the issue early could save you a lot of hassle and money.
At Mechanical Flood Protection we offer comprehensive flood protection services to protect your house and basement from flooding. We operate all across Nova Scotia and have a 5-Star Rating on Google Business Review with plenty of amazing reviews.
Contact us today at +902-397-4938 for a free no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should a sump pump be replaced?
A sump pump should be replaced every 7-10 years depending on usage and how well you maintain it. Signs such as frequent malfunctions, unusual noises, or reduced efficiency, also indicate that your sump pump needs to be replaced.
Can a constantly running sump pump cause flooding?
Yes. Even if your sump pump is constantly running it can cause flooding. This is because issues such as a stuck float switch, faulty check valve, or an underground leak can cause your motor to burn out or become overwhelmed resulting in flooding.
What regular maintenance is recommended for sump pumps?
Routine maintenance, like cleaning the pit, checking for debris, testing the float switch, and inspecting the discharge pipe can all help prevent problems before they occur and increase the lifespan of your sump pump.