Is It Normal for a Sump Pump to Run Constantly During Rain?

Understanding What Is Normal During Rain

If you notice your sump pump running constantly during a storm, you are not alone. Many homeowners see a big jump in sump pump activity when heavy rain or rapid snowmelt hits. In some cases, this is normal. In other cases, it can point to a problem that needs attention before it turns into a flooded basement or a burned-out pump. This guide explains what normal operation looks like, how to spot trouble, and what fixes you can try at home. If you need help, Watertight Plumbing offers 24 hour sump pump service throughout Lake County, Illinois and Kenosha County, Wisconsin.

Every home drains groundwater a little differently. Soil type, sump pit size, pump capacity, the depth of your foundation, and the slope around your house all affect how often your pump runs. During a big weather event, your pump may run more than usual. That can be okay if it is handling real water volume and cycling on and off as expected.

Short, frequent cycles during a heavy downpour can be normal, especially with a high water table.
Continuous operation for part of a severe storm can be normal if water is pouring into the pit.
After rain ends, the pump should slow down and return to occasional cycling as groundwater levels drop.

It becomes abnormal when the sump pump runs constantly for hours or days during light rain or dry weather, or when it runs nonstop without moving much water. If the pump never gets a break, it can overheat and fail.

Signs Your Sump Pump Running Constantly Is a Problem

Watch for these red flags during or after a storm. They can indicate a repair issue or an incorrect setup.

The pump runs constantly even when no water is entering the pit.
The pump runs for a long time but the water level barely drops.
You hear rapid short cycling, where the pump turns on and off every few seconds.
The motor is hot to the touch or you smell burning or a rubber odor.
You see a tripped circuit or a GFCI outlet that keeps resetting.
The pit is almost empty but the pump continues to run due to a stuck float switch.
You see water backing up at the discharge line or gurgling at the foundation.
The pump is loud, rattling, or vibrating more than usual.

Common Causes of a Sump Pump That Runs Constantly

High Water Table or Extreme Weather

In areas with clay soil or a naturally high water table, your pump may run a lot during and after a storm. If you received several inches of rain or rapid snowmelt, heavy inflow can keep the pump busy. This can be normal, yet a backup pump or larger capacity pump may be a smart upgrade to reduce strain.

Undersized Pump or Sump Pit

If your pump cannot move water as fast as it arrives, it will run for long stretches. A small basin can also cause short, frequent cycles that wear out the motor. Upgrading the pump size, adjusting the float switch range, or installing a larger pit can help balance inflow and outflow.

Stuck or Faulty Float Switch

The float switch turns the pump on and off. If the float gets snagged on the side of the basin, tangled in the power cord, or fails internally, the pump can run nonstop. A new switch or a better switch style often solves this.

Failed or Missing Check Valve

The check valve prevents water from flowing back into the pit after the pump shuts off. If the valve is missing, installed backward, or worn out, water in the discharge line will drain back and trigger another cycle. That can make it look like the pump needs to run constantly. A new check valve is an easy fix.

Clogged or Frozen Discharge Line

A partial blockage reduces the flow rate and forces the pump to run longer. Outdoor discharge lines can clog with dirt, rocks, or leaves. In winter, a buried or shallow line can freeze. The pump will keep trying to move water and may overheat. Clearing the line or adding a freeze guard and proper pitch can prevent this.

Discharge Line Too Long or With Steep Lifts

Long runs or high vertical lifts can strain the pump. If the discharge line is undersized or routed uphill without relief, the pump may struggle and run continuously. Rerouting, upsizing the pipe, or using a more powerful pump can restore proper flow.

Water Reentering Near the Foundation

If the discharge pipe dumps water close to the house, it can cycle back to the drain tiles and sump pit. Downspouts that empty near the foundation can cause the same loop. Extending discharge pipes and downspouts 10 feet or more from the house usually stops the cycle.

Debris in the Pit or Pump Intake

Leaves, silt, gravel, or pet hair inside the basin can clog the intake screen or impeller. Flow drops and the pump stays on. Cleaning the pit and the intake screen can restore performance.

Plumbing Leak Feeding the Drain Tile

A broken underground pipe or a leaking interior line can send constant water to the perimeter drain and sump. This can make the pump run all the time even without rain. A professional inspection can find and repair hidden leaks.

DIY Troubleshooting Steps Before You Call a Pro

Unplug the pump or switch off power at the breaker for safety. Never reach into water with power on.
Inspect the pit. Is water still entering? If the pit is nearly dry but the pump keeps starting, the float may be stuck or the switch may be bad.
Check the float. Make sure it moves freely and does not rub the basin wall. Untangle cords and reposition the pump if needed.
Test the check valve. Look for an arrow showing flow direction away from the pump. If you hear water rushing back after shutoff, the valve may be failing.
Look at the discharge line outside. Confirm it is clear, pitched away from the house, and not buried shallow where it can freeze. Remove any blockages at the outlet.
Pour water into the pit to simulate inflow. Watch the on and off points. A healthy pump should clear the pit and shut off cleanly. If it short cycles, adjust or replace the float switch.
Listen for unusual noises like grinding or rattling, which can point to a clogged intake or damaged impeller.
Check downspouts and yard grading. Add extensions so water discharges well away from the foundation. Ensure soil slopes away from the home.
Reset the GFCI outlet if tripped, then monitor. If it trips again, stop and call a professional.
If you have a battery backup, test it and confirm the charger indicates a full charge.

Quick Fixes Homeowners Can Try

Reposition the float switch so it swings freely and does not hang up on the cord or basin wall.
Trim or tidy cords with zip ties so they cannot snag the float.
Install or replace the check valve if missing or noisy. Use a valve rated for sump pumps.
Clear the discharge outlet and add a freeze guard or air gap. In winter, use heat tape only on accessible exterior sections as directed by the manufacturer.
Add a 10 to 15 foot extension to the discharge pipe and downspouts to keep water away from the foundation.
Clean the pump intake screen and remove silt or gravel from the basin.
Add a lid to the pit to reduce debris and prevent objects from interfering with the float.
Place the pump on a flat brick or stand to keep it off sediment at the bottom of the pit.
Upgrade to a vertical float or electronic switch if your tethered float often sticks.
Install a high water alarm so you get an early warning if the pump cannot keep up.

If these steps do not improve the issue, or if you see signs of overheating, burning, or electrical problems, contact a licensed plumber. Watertight Plumbing can diagnose the cause and recommend dependable repairs or upgrades.

Is It Ever Okay for a Pump to Run Nonstop?

Yes, in a major storm or during rapid snowmelt, a sump pump may run for long periods. What matters is whether the pump is actually moving water and the water level is dropping as it should. After the worst of the weather passes, most pumps should return to normal cycling. If your sump pump is running constantly for hours after the rain stops, or it runs nonstop during light rain, there is likely a problem.

As a basic guide, a typical home pump often runs in cycles that last from 20 seconds to a few minutes, then shuts off until the water rises again. Continuous operation is usually a sign the inflow is very high or something is restricting discharge. Do not ignore nonstop operation for more than a short window during heavy rain. Prolonged runtime shortens pump life and increases the risk of failure at the worst time.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Constant Running

Test monthly. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to confirm the pump turns on, discharges water, and shuts off properly.
Clean quarterly. Remove debris from the basin, rinse the intake screen, and check the impeller for buildup.
Inspect the check valve every 6 months. Replace if you hear sloshing on shutoff or see water draining back.
Extend downspouts and discharge lines. Keep water 10 feet or more from your foundation.
Check grading around the home. Soil should slope away to reduce groundwater pressure.
Add a battery backup pump. This helps during power outages and reduces risk during severe weather.
Install a high water alarm or a smart sump monitor so you get alerts by phone.
Schedule an annual professional inspection. Watertight Plumbing can test flow, check the electrical circuit, and confirm your system can handle local storm patterns.

Battery Backups and Alarms Reduce Risk

Why a Battery Backup Matters

Big storms often bring power outages. A battery backup pump can run for several hours, sometimes much longer, depending on battery size and inflow. It turns on automatically when the main pump cannot run or when the water rises too quickly. This extra layer of protection can prevent a flood even if your primary pump is working hard.

Water Powered Backup Options

Some homes can use a water powered backup that runs off municipal water pressure. This is useful if you want protection without relying on a battery. It is not suitable for every house, so ask a professional if it works for your plumbing setup.

High Water Alarms and Smart Monitors

Alarms alert you when water rises too high in the pit. Smart monitors can send texts or app alerts, track pump cycles, and show you trends. If you see your sump pump running constantly, these tools help you react before a failure occurs.

When to Call a Professional

The pump runs constantly for hours after the rain stops.
You smell burning, feel a hot motor, or see smoke.
The GFCI keeps tripping or the circuit breaker will not hold.
You cannot clear a frozen or clogged discharge line.
You suspect the check valve is installed wrong or has failed.
You hear grinding, rattling, or metal noises.
Water keeps recirculating back to the pit even after you extend downspouts.
You want to upgrade to a larger pump, a bigger pit, or add a battery backup.

If you are in Lake County or Kenosha County, professional help is nearby. Watertight Plumbing offers fast, reliable sump pump repair and installation. For emergency service, call (847) 623-6810 in Lake County or (262) 484-4520 in Kenosha County. The team is licensed, bonded, insured, and available 24 hours a day.

Why Homeowners Choose Watertight Plumbing

Watertight Plumbing is a local, family owned company with more than 30 years of experience serving homes and businesses in Lake County, Illinois and Kenosha County, Wisconsin. The team understands how local soil and weather patterns affect basements, which means they can size and install systems that keep up during the worst storms.

Services include:

Emergency plumbing for sewer backups, gas leaks, burst pipes, and water heater failures.
Plumbing installation and repair for water lines, sump pumps, fixtures, and toilets.
Sewer services such as inspections, rodding, drain cleaning, and line repairs.
Water heater installation and maintenance for gas, electric, and tankless units.
Sump pump installations, repairs, maintenance, and battery backup systems.
New construction and remodeling upgrades for residential and commercial properties.

Watertight Plumbing services Kenosha, Zion, Waukegan, Gurnee, Libertyville, and nearby communities. If your sump pump is running constantly and you want a clear plan, their specialists can inspect your system, clean and test components, and recommend the right fix. From a simple check valve replacement to a complete sump system with backup and alarm, they deliver solutions that last.

FAQ: Sump Pump Running Constantly

How long should a sump pump run during heavy rain?

It depends on inflow. Short cycles every few minutes are common. In extreme weather, longer run times can be normal as long as the water level drops and the pump shuts off between surges. If it runs for hours after rain ends, call a pro.

Is it bad if my sump pump runs every minute?

Rapid short cycling can overheat the motor. It often points to a small pit, a poorly set float switch, or a failed check valve. Adjusting the float or upgrading the pit and valve usually helps.

Why does my pump run when the pit is almost empty?

A stuck float or a faulty switch can keep the pump on even when the water is low. Reposition the float, clean the pit, and replace the switch if needed.

Can a bad check valve cause constant running?

Yes. Without a good check valve, water drains back into the pit after the pump turns off. The pump then restarts and repeats the cycle. Replacing the valve is a common fix.

Should I replace or repair my sump pump?

Most pumps last 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is older, undersized, or has motor issues, replacement may be smarter than repair. A technician from Watertight Plumbing can evaluate your system and help you choose.

Do I need a battery backup?

Yes if you want peace of mind. Power often fails during storms. A battery backup or water powered backup can keep your basement dry when you need it most.

Protect Your Basement Today

If your sump pump is running constantly and you are not sure why, do not wait. A simple issue like a stuck float or a bad check valve can become a flooded basement if left alone. Watertight Plumbing provides same day sump pump service, expert repairs, and dependable installations across Lake County and Kenosha County. Call (847) 623-6810 in Lake County or (262) 484-4520 in Kenosha County to schedule service or request 24 hour emergency help.

With the right pump, a clean discharge path, and regular maintenance, your system can handle local storms without nonstop operation. Use the tips above, and when you need a trusted professional, count on Watertight Plumbing to keep your home dry and protected.