Why is my Sump Pump Running Constantly after Heavy Rain?

Are you struggling with a sump pump constantly running after a heavy rain? You’re not alone. Many homeowners experience this frustrating issue after heavy rains, and it can be a sign of a serious problem.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why your sump pump might be running continuously, what you can do to fix it, and how to prevent it from happening again in the future.

By the end of this post, you’ll better understand how your sump pump works and what steps you can take to keep your basement dry and free your house from water damage.

Before we dive into the causes of a constantly running sump pump, it is important to understand what a sump pump is and what it does.

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a device that is typically installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. Its primary function is to remove excess water that has accumulated in a sump basin, which is a pit dug into the ground beneath the floor of the basement or crawlspace.

Why does my sump pump run constantly after rain?

Causes of a sump pump running constantly after heavy rain

Overworked Pump

One of the most common reasons why a sump pumps run constantly after heavy rain is because it is overworked. If your pump is not large enough or powerful enough to handle the amount of water coming in, it will constantly run to keep up.

Clogged Discharge Pipe

Another common cause of a constantly running sump pump is a clogged discharge pipe. Over time, debris can accumulate in the pipe and prevent water from flowing freely. This can cause the sump pump work itself to run constantly, as it is unable to push the water out.

Stuck Float Switch

The float switch is a critical component of a sump pump, as it is responsible for turning the pump on and off as needed. If the float switch becomes stuck in the on position, the whole sump pump may and will continue to run even when it is not necessary.

Broken Check Valve

A check valve is a one-way valve that is installed in the discharge pipe of a sump pump. Its purpose is to prevent water from flowing back into the sump basin after it has been pumped out. If the check valve is broken or malfunctioning, water can flow back into the basin, causing the sump pump run continuously.

Power Outage

If your home experiences a power outage during a heavy rainstorm, your sump pump may continue to run constantly once the power is restored. This is because the pump will have been unable to pump out all of the accumulated water during the outage.

Solutions for a sump pump constantly running

Install a Larger Pump

If your sump pump is overworked, one solution is to install a larger pump that is better equipped to handle the amount of water that is coming in. A larger pump will be able to pump out more water in less time, which can help to prevent constant running.

Clear the Discharge Pipe

If your discharge pipe is clogged, it must be cleared to restore proper water flow. This can be done using a plumber’s snake or by disassembling the pipe and manually removing the debris.

Check the Float Switch

If the float switch is stuck in the on position, it will need to be adjusted or replaced in order to restore proper pump function. This can be done by a professional plumber or by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace the Check Valve

If the check valve is broken, it must be replaced to prevent excess water from flowing back into the sump basin. This can be done by a professional plumber or by following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Install a Battery Backup

If your sump pump runs constantly due to a power outage, installing a battery backup can help ensure that your pump continues to function even when the power is out. A battery backup can keep your whole sump pump system running for several hours, giving you enough time to address the power outage.

Why Is My Sump Pump Running So Often In The Winter?

If you notice your sump pump runs more frequently during the winter months, it could be due to a few reasons. One possible cause is melting snow or ice that seeps into the ground and saturates the soil around your foundation, causing water to flow into the sump pit.

Additionally, winter storms can bring heavy rainfall that can quickly overwhelm the drainage system at a certain point, leading to increased sump pump activity.

Another factor could be the drop in temperature, which causes pipes to freeze and potentially burst, leading to water damage and the need for increased sump pump usage.

It’s important to ensure that your sump pump is functioning properly and has a backup power source in case of power outages during winter storms.

How often should a sump pump cycle during heavy rain?

During heavy rain, sump pumps should cycle as often as necessary to keep the water level in the sump pit below the point where it could cause flooding. The frequency of cycling will depend on the intensity and duration of the rain, as well as the capacity of the pump and the size of the sump pit.

 It’s important to make sure that the sump pump system is working properly and able to keep up with the amount of water entering the pit during heavy rain.

Why is my sump pump running every 30 minutes?

A sump pump running every 30 minutes may be normal, depending on the amount of rainfall and the size of your pump. However, if the frequency of the pump cycling increases, it could indicate a problem, such as a malfunctioning float switch or a pump that is too small for the amount of water it needs to handle. It’s best to consult with a professional to determine the cause and ensure the proper functioning of your sump pump.

Is it normal for a sump pump to run every minute?

No, it is not normal for sump pump to run every minute. If your sump pump is running this frequently, it may be due to a high water table, an undersized pump, or a malfunctioning float switch.

Running the pump this frequently can cause it to wear out prematurely, so it’s important to identify and address the underlying issue.

Conclusion

A constantly running sump pump after heavy rain is a sign that something is not right. Whether it is an overworked pump, a clogged discharge pipe, a stuck float switch, a broken check valve, or a power outage, there are several potential causes for a constantly running sump pump.

By understanding the causes of mechanical problems and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can help ensure that your sump pump run properly and protects your home from water damage.

FAQs

How do I stop my sump pump from running constantly?

To stop your sump pump from running constantly, you can try a few things. First, check the float switch to make sure it’s working properly and not stuck in the “on” position.

You can also adjust the switch to a higher level so that the sump pump runs and only turns on when there’s more standing water in the sump pit.

Another solution is to install a check valve to prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit once the pump has turned off. Finally, if the problem persists, you may need to consider upgrading your sump pump to a larger or more powerful model. 

Is it normal for sump pump to run every 30 seconds?

No, it is not normal for a sump pump to run every 30 seconds. If your sump pump is running at high demand or this frequently, it may indicate that there is a problem with the pump or the drainage system.

Is it normal for a sump pump to run every hour?

It depends on the amount of rainwater or water that is entering your sump pit. If your sump pump is running every hour, it may be a normal frequency if the area is experiencing heavy rain or if there is a high water table.

However, if the sump pump run every hour during dry weather conditions, it may indicate a problem with the sump pump pit itself or the drainage system.

Is it normal for sump pump to run for days?

No, it is not normal for a sump pump to run for days and this may indicate a mechanical issue or abnormal conditions. Typically, sump pumps should run for six to 24 hours during heavy rainfall, depending on pump quality. 

Although a sump pump should constantly work to remove water in the basement, continuous use can lead to long-term problems. If your sump pump constantly runs after heavy rain, it’s recommended to check

How do I know if my sump pump is working?

You can test your sump pump by pouring water into the sump basin and ensuring that the new sump pump turns on and pumps out the water.

Can a sump pump prevent all water damage?

While a sump pump can help prevent water damage in some cases, it is not guaranteed. It is important to take additional measures, such as waterproofing your whole basement floor, to fully protect your home from water damage.