Quick answer
A sump pump that runs constantly is either handling ground water that keeps coming in, or failing to move water out: a stuck float switch, a failed check valve that lets water drain back, a clogged intake, or a frozen or blocked discharge line. Unplug it, free the float, clear the intake, and check the outside discharge. Fixr puts sump pump repairs at $150–$500, about $300. Call (888) 217-6781 to reach a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
A sump pump that runs all the time, even in dry weather, is either moving water it should not have to, or failing to move it out. Both wear the motor out early, and a pump that burns out is how a basement floods on the next storm.
Watch the Pit While It Runs
| What you see | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Water level drops, then refills quickly | High water table or heavy ground water: the pump may be working as designed |
| Pump runs, water level does not drop | Clogged intake, failed impeller, or a frozen or blocked discharge line |
| Water drains back into the pit when the pump stops | Failed check valve on the discharge pipe |
| Pump runs with the pit nearly empty | Float switch stuck in the up position |
| Pump short-cycles: on and off every few seconds | Pit too small, float set too tight, or a bad check valve |
Check These First
- 1Unplug the pump before reaching into the pit.
- 2Free the float. Make sure the float moves freely and is not caught on the cord, the pit wall or debris.
- 3Clear the intake screen. Gravel, silt and debris collect at the bottom.
- 4Check the discharge outside. The pipe should be open and running clear, not frozen, crushed or buried.
- 5Listen to the check valve. A loud thump when the pump stops is normal; water rushing back is not.
Talk to a plumber about this
One call reaches a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
A Second Line of Defense
If the pump runs because water keeps coming in, a battery backup pump and a high-water alarm are cheap insurance against a power cut during a storm. See sump pump failure for what to do if the basement is already wet.
What a Repair Costs
Fixr puts sump pump repairs at $150–$500, about $300 on average. A float switch starts at about $75, and replacing the discharge piping can run up to about $600. See sump pump repair.
When to Call
Call if the water level does not drop while the pump runs, if the motor is hot or humming without pumping, or if the check valve has failed. (888) 217-6781 connects you to a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more, because the companies taking calls change minute to minute.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my sump pump running constantly?
A stuck float switch, a failed check valve, a clogged intake or a frozen discharge line, or a high water table that keeps refilling the pit.
Is it bad if my sump pump runs all the time?
It wears the motor out early, and a pump that burns out is how a basement floods on the next storm. Find the cause, and consider a battery backup.
How much does sump pump repair cost?
Fixr puts sump pump repairs at $150–$500, about $300 on average. A float switch starts at about $75.
Sources
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Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.