Sump pump · triage
Sump pump keeps running with no rain
The short answer
Look in the pit. Water flowing back after each cycle points to a failed check valve; a float stuck up keeps it running dry; water steadily coming in means a high water table or a leak, possibly from your own supply line.
Pump power and waterUnplug the pump before touching anything in the pit. If the outlet or cord is wet, don’t touch it; use the breaker.
Know your shutoffs
Every outcome on this card
This weekA failed check valve
Replace it this week.
- Note how often the pump cycles
- Replace the check valve on the discharge pipe A common, inexpensive part; or a plumber.
- Check the discharge outlet outside isn’t blocked
This weekA stuck float or switch
Fix before it burns out the pump.
- Unplug the pump
- Free the float from the pit wall or debris
- Plug in and pour in a bucket of water to test If it doesn’t shut off, replace the switch or pump.
This weekSteady inflow
Find out where it comes from.
- Do the two-hour water-meter test If the meter moves with everything off, a supply line may be leaking.
- Check that gutters and downspouts drain away from the house
- Consider a backup pump or battery backup A pump that runs constantly will fail sooner.
Related
Written from
Original casaq guidance, updated 2026-10-05. General guidance, not a diagnosis; licensed-pro review pending. Severity levels: Emergency now / Today / This week / This month / Watch. Send a correction.
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