How To Stop a Sump Pump From Constantly Running? A Guide for Winnipeg Residents
King's Services
Sump pumps are highly efficient at keeping basements dry, even during severe storms. However, regardless of how dependable they are, sump pumps are still mechanical systems. They are bound to break down at some point.
As the leading emergency plumber in Winnipeg, the King’s Services crew receives calls from homeowners about different issues plaguing their sump pump. A common one is a sump pump constantly running even when there is no rain. Unfortunately, there are several reasons your sump pump may run non-stop.
In this post, we’ll discuss how to stop a sump pump from constantly running. Some of them are easy fixes, while others may require you to seek professional guidance.
How To Stop a Sump Pump From Constantly Running
If your sump pump runs non-stop, here's what to do.
Check for a Stuck or Damaged Float Switch
The float switch is a crucial part of your sump pump system. You can think of it as the water level sensor. It monitors the water level in the sump pit and triggers the unit to turn on (or off) depending on the water level. If the float switch gets stuck or tangled by dirt and debris, your sump pump may run continuously.
Thankfully, fixing this problem is easy. Check the float switch to ensure it moves up and down freely, if it doesn’t, check for any debris or obstructions around it and remove it. If you find out that the switch is damaged, you should consider replacing it with a new one.
Check for the Source of Water Entering the Sump Pit
Let’s dig out Occam’s Razor for this one: Sometimes, the easiest answer is the correct one. If your sump pump is running constantly, it’s possible that water is flowing into it. Some of the most common causes include melting snow and a high water table. However, a damaged plumbing pipe can also trigger the system.
If you hear your sump pump running, check to see if you have water in the sump pit, and then try to address the source.
Some of the things you can do include cleaning gutters and downspouts to redirect melting snow away from your foundation, setting up better drainage around your foundation, and addressing any plumbing leaks. For problems such as a high water table, you should consider installing a second sump pump to reduce the load on the main unit.
Re-evaluate the Sump Pit Size
One of the most effective tips on how to stop a sump pump from constantly running is to check the sump pit size. Your sump pump might run non-stop if the sump pit is too small. The unit will cycle on and off because it will never have enough time to clear the water before the pit fills up again.
Check your sump pit to confirm that it’s at least 30 inches deep and 18-24 inches wide. This is the general recommendation for most sump pumps, so yours might need to be deeper and wider depending on your home’s topography.
Check for a Frozen or Blocked Drain Line
The drain line or discharge pipe helps carry water from the sump pump away from your home. If the pipe is blocked, the sump pump will struggle to expel water from your home. Thus, your sump pump will run continuously.
Check the discharge pipe to ensure water is flowing through it freely. If it isn’t, connect your wet/dry vacuum to clean up the clog. You should also check the insulation on the discharge pipe to ensure it’s durable enough to prevent the pipe from freezing during Winnipeg’s winters.
Check for a Malfunctioning Check Valve
The check valve in a sump pump is a one-way valve that is installed in the discharge pipe to help keep water from flowing back into the sump pit. If the check valve malfunctions, water can flow back into the pit and cause your sump pump to run continuously.
If your check valve is damaged, faulty, or even missing, you have to install a new one to prevent the backflow that keeps your unit running non-stop.
Check for a Broken or Clogged Impeller
This is another top tip on how to stop a sump pump from constantly running.
The impeller in your sump pump is a component that looks like a fan. Its spinning motion helps push water up from the sump pit and into the drain line or discharge pip.
If you have a broken or clogged impeller, your sump pump motor will run, but the impeller won’t spin. Therefore, water won’t exit the sump pit. As a result, your sump pump will keep running forever.
Re-Evaluate Your Sump Pump Size
If none of the above points apply in your situation, then it’s highly likely that your sump pump is too small for the amount of water entering your sump pit. You’ll need to call in an experienced plumber to determine the right pump size for your home in this case.
Why You Should Never Ignore a Sump Pump Constantly Running in Winnipeg
A sump pump running constantly is bad news. Apart from the fact that it will leave you worrying about a phantom flooded basement, there are other things it can cause. These include the following:
Your Sump Pump Might Stop Working
If your sump pump keeps working when there’s no water in the pit, it might overheat and die. This could mean not having any protection in the event of flooding.
You’ll Have a Higher Energy Bill
Sump pumps run on electricity. Your bill will most certainly rise if your sump pump keeps running non-stop.
You’ll Replace Your Sump Pump Sooner
Sump pumps should last up to 15 years. Your unit may not reach even half of its lifespan if it runs all day.
Wondering How To Stop a Sump Pump From Constantly Running in Winnipeg? Call Us!
Do you want to learn more about how to stop a sump pump from constantly running? Want to find out why there’s
water in your sump pump? Call King’s Services in Winnipeg today at
431-532-5623 to schedule a consultation.
