Sump Pump Running Constantly After Heavy Rain: Is It A Problem?

Heavy rains can fill your sump pit really fast, but does that mean that a sump pump should run constantly? It is reasonable to think that your sump pump should run more during heavy rains. But, if a sump pump is running constantly, you would be wrong to ignore it.

A sump pump running constantly is a sign that there is an overflow of water in your sump pit. No matter the weather conditions, a sump pump running constantly is a cause for action.

Before fixing the problem, you should find out what is the problem. There are a couple of reasons why a sump pump will run non-stop. We will cover them all below.

The most common cause of a pump running continuously, is a stuck or tangled switch.

If your switch is fine, water may be flowing back into your pit. That could mean that the check valve is broken. Remember: the check valve stops the water from flowing back.

If the valve is working, and the sump pump still won’t stop, your sump pump and pit may not be the appropriate size. Either the sump pump can’t handle the overflow or the sump pit is too small.

The least likely, but still a possible cause, is that the sump pump is not installed properly. Either your discharge point is not far enough from your home or the discharge liners do not have a big enough fall, meaning they are too horizontal.

Most problems you can fix yourself, with a little bit of research. Some problems may require a professional.

Recap: common causes of a overdriving Sump Pump

• Tangled switch
• Broken valve
• Size of the Sump Pump in Relation to the Sump Pit
• Faulty installation
• Discharge lines too horizontal
  

Identifying and solving the problem

The best way to identify the cause of a sump pump running constantly is by a process of elimination. It’s best to start with parts that you can check easily with little effort. The sump pump switch and the check valve are the best places to start.

If you have a sump pump that uses a float switch activator, your switch is probably clogged. Read our tips on fixing a clogged sump pump here. If the switch still doesn’t work after troubleshooting, the best way you can fix this is by just buying a more expensive model with better quality. You should also consider switching to a model that uses a different kind of switch.

Broken check valves can be the cause of your sump pump is running constantly. Check valves are important for a well-functionating sump pump. Without them, the water would flow back in the sump pit and cause overflow problems. Be sure to regularly change your check valves.

If you eliminated the obvious suspects, the problem may be more serious and cost you more. Installing a sump pump can be complicated. Everyone makes mistakes during installation, even professionals. If you don’t know a single thing about your sump pump and how it was installed, be sure to check that the sump pit is big enough, and the sump pump is powerful enough. Seek the help of a certified professional if you don’t feel confident doing this.

When you have eliminated every cause and the sump pump is still running constantly, most likely the drainage point is not right. The drainage lines should be on a slope or have a big enough fall so the lines won’t clog. If the lines are fine, check the drainage point. The place where the water is pushed away, should be a dry-well and far enough from your home. It is best when the drainage point is approved by the neighborhood or the local government. You can fix this problem if you are really handy. Otherwise, seek help from a professional.

Be sure to keep your sump pump functional

Learn from your mistakes, don’t let this happen again. Maintaining your sump pump may look costly or hard to do, but it is nothing compared to the damages that a failed sump pump can do. If you don’t know anything about your sump pump, call someone to inspect it. It is best to be safe.

Weather conditions should not affect your sump pump

When installing your sump pump you should always consider how it can endure heavy rains and cold winters. Your sump pit can be enough during dry days, but when heavy rains hit it can be filled within seconds. Make sure that your sump pit is big enough. During winter, the drainage lines can freeze. To prevent this, your lines need to have a big fall. If the water flows fast and frequently, it’s not possible for the lines to freeze.

Related questions

How long can a sump pump run continuously?

The sump pump can run until it burns out. It depends on the model, but sump pumps usually can run for 6-24 hours. That is why you need to act fast if your sump pump is running constantly.

Does the quality of the sump pump matter?

It surely does. If your house is naturally prone to flooding, you may need 2 sump pumps. Quality sump pumps may not give you problems quite often, but they still need maintenance.

Did the sump pump running constantly cause any damage?

If the sump pump didn’t burn out, you should be fine. There will not be any significant damage if you solve this problem after a day or two, but ignoring it may cause serious damage.