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Why My Sump Pump Constantly Running?

Your sump pump works around the clock to make sure your basement and property is not overcome with flooding and excess moisture. This does not…

May 05, 2026
Why My Sump Pump Constantly Running?

Your sump pump works around the clock to make sure your basement and property is not overcome with flooding and excess moisture. This does not mean that the sump pump is constantly running though. If your sump pump is running without stop, then you have a problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. A constantly running sump pump can wear out its motor and shorten the service life.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey, we have plenty of experience detecting, diagnosing, and resolving issues with sump pumps, and we are always ready to take your call for an emergency repair. But this article is not a sales pitch. It is an informative one. We hope to give you some insight into why your sump pump is constantly running and offer some tips to troubleshoot and fix the issue. You are always welcomed to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to speak with a live representative.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

Why My Sump Pump Constantly Running?

Potential Cause #1: Faulty Float Switch

The name is pretty self-descriptive. A float switch sits on the surface of the water in the sump pump and switches the sump pump on when the water level reaches a certain point. Water is pumped out until the float pump reaches its neutral position once again.
Inspect your sump pump and make sure it is not tangled or stuck. Remove any obstructions so that it can freely move. If there is no obstruction, then the float switch may be faulty and need to be replaced. Many home improvement stores have replacements for sale but make sure you buy the correct type for your sump pump model.

Potential Cause #2: Defective Check Valve

The sump pump relies on the check valve to send water away without the same water coming back into the sump pit. A defective check valve will allow water to re-enter the sump pit, creating a loop that will be constantly triggering the pump.
Check to see if the check valve is properly installed. It should be held in place with ring clamps, so it is not very difficult to remove and replace the part. It may also be that the check valve has wo out. Either way, head out to the local hardware store to get a replacement part and swap out the old part for the new.

Potential Cause #3: Clogged Discharge Pipe

The wastewater discharged by a sump pump travels through a discharge pipe. It is common for sediment and debris to clog the discharge pipe. If the discharge pipe is blocked, then water backups will have your sump pump running non-stop.
You can grab a plunger or drain snake to unclog the pipe, but we do not recommend chemical drain cleaners. If the drain snake or plunger does not loosen up the blockage, then consider calling Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey for a professional cleaning. Our live representatives and qualified plumbers are available around the clock. Do not ever hesitate to call. We are ready to take your call and have a nearby plumber dispatched to your location today.

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