Is Your Sump Pump Running a Marathon? How to Stop the Endless Cycle
You already know how crucial a sump pump is for protecting your crawl space from flooding. These hidden superheroes is your best friend at keeping your home dry and safe.
But what if your sump pump runs constantly? The incessant noise isn’t just annoying, but can be unnerving. Is there really that much water to pump out? If your sump pump sounds like it’s training for a marathon, it’s time to take a closer look. Let’s examine some common reasons why your sump pump might be constantly run and how to fix it.
1. The Obvious Answer: Water
Let’s address the most common reason for a sump pump that doesn’t stop running. Too much water. Have you experienced recent heavy rainfall? Has water been rising in your area? Do you have a plumbing leak? A constantly running pump in these situations is normal (although, if it’s a plumbing leak you’ll want to fix that)
Here are some other things to check:
- Check the Discharge Pipe: Is the pipe leading from your sump pump to the outside clear of debris and ice? A blocked pipe is a common cause of a backed up system. A blocked pipe water to back up and trigger the pump constantly.
- Inspect the Sump Pit: Rocks, excessive dirt, and other problems can cause the float switch to stick, or at minimum not allow the entire pit to fill up.
- Evaluate Drainage: How is the grading around your house? Look for pooling at the base of your foundation or where there is an obvious slope towards your house. If this is the case, improve the drainage to pull water away from your home. You may also consider lengthening your downspouts and installing drain tile in your crawl space which will accomplish this.
Need an expert to check this out? Contact Vance Insulation for a free inspection.
2. The Float Switch Fiasco
There is a mechanism that tells your sump pump when to turn off and on. This is called a float switch. If it is not working properly, this switch may run continuously.
- Stuck Switch: If there is a tangled cord or something stuck near the switch, carefully free it and it should solve the problem immediately.
- Malfunctioning Switch: As with any appliance, float switches and other parts can wear out and fail. If cleaning or repositioning the switch fails to solve the problem. Replacing the switch is a relatively simple fix.
3. Pump Problems: Age and Wear
Your pump’s lifespan is around 7-10 years. If you have had it around that long, it’s likely to struggle to keep up and lead to constant running.
- Worn Impeller: The impeller is the part of the pump that moves water. A worn impeller can reduce the pump’s efficiency, causing it to run constantly to try and remove water.
- Pump Size: A sump pump that is too small might not be adequate to serve your needs. Consulting a plumber can help you determine the right size pump for your home.
4. Electrical Issues: The Silent Culprit
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the pump itself, but with the electrical supply.
- Power Supply: You may have a problem with your power supply, check your circuit breaker to make sure it’s not tripped.
- Wiring Problems: Got exposed, damaged, or loose wiring? This can cause issues. Be sure to unplug the unit before checking the wiring or any location on your sump pump.
5. Less Common Issues:
- Check Valve Problems: The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the sump pit. If it’s malfunctioning, the pump might cycle on and off more frequently.
- Frozen Discharge Line: In colder months, the discharge line can freeze, preventing water from escaping and causing the pump to run continuously.
What to Do Next:
Once you’ve checked the basics and the problem still exists, it’s time to call a professional. Vance Insulation will diagnose and determine whether or not replacing the unit is necessary. Ignoring a constantly running sump pump can lead to costly water damage so it’s crucial to address the issue promptly.
