Sump pumps: not running, running constantly and upkeep

A sump pump sits in a pit in the basement or crawl space and pumps water out before it can flood the floor. The usual trouble is a pump that's not running, often a power or float problem, or one that runs constantly, which can be normal in heavy rain or point to a stuck float or failed check valve. If the basement is flooded, don't step into water that could touch outlets or cords.

Common problems
How long it should last

Typical lifespan: about 10 years with maintenance

Signs it is near the end:

  • The pump is silent or hums when water is high in the pit.
  • It runs when it's dry out, or cycles on and off often.
  • Water leaves the discharge pipe slowly, or flows back into the pit.
  • Repairs are adding up on a pump close to 10 years old.
Basic upkeep
  • Check that the pump is plugged directly into a working outlet, never an extension cord.
  • Pour water into the pit and make sure the pump starts and the float moves freely.
  • Unplug the pump before you reach into the pit, and wear gloves.
  • Look at the discharge pipe outside for ice or a blockage.
  • Keep debris out of the pit.
Common fixes

  • Furnace won't heat?

    FurnaceFall

    The furnace runs but the house stays cold, which is usually a clogged filter, a thermostat setting, or an ignition fault.

  • Heat pump not heating?

    Heat pumpFall

    The heat pump runs but the house stays cold, which is usually thermostat settings, a clogged filter, or an iced-over outdoor unit.

  • Washer won't drain?

    Washer

    Water is left in the drum after the cycle, which is usually a clogged pump filter or a kinked drain hose.

  • Fridge not cooling?

    Fridge

    The fridge section is warm or warming. The cause depends on whether the freezer is still cold, and the first fix is often free.

  • Washer won't spin?

    Washer

    The drum fills and washes but won't spin, which is usually an unbalanced load, the lid switch, or a drain problem.

Sharpen the read

Diagnose your sump pump in seconds, for free

No account, no phone number. Fixology’s AI reads your photo and tells you what’s likely wrong, how worried to be, and whether it’s a DIY fix.

Snap one of these:

  • the pump and float in the pit
  • the discharge pipe and check valve
  • the outlet the pump plugs into
  • the pit water level

Add a note or more photos next. Nobody calls you.

Fixology helps you understand your home — it isn't a substitute for a licensed pro on serious gas, electrical, or structural work.