Water Pump Constantly Running? Common Causes and Solutions

If you’ve noticed your water pump constantly running, even when you’re not using water, it’s a red flag that something in your well system isn’t working the way it should. This issue isn’t just annoying; it’s costly. A constantly running pump can significantly raise your electricity bill, shorten the life of your pump, and lead to bigger system failures down the road if left unresolved.

There are a handful of common causes behind this problem. Knowing what to look for and what the right solution is can help you address the issue quickly and efficiently. Whether it’s a small mechanical issue or a larger system concern, identifying the right solution can save you time, money, and stress.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

Before diving into each cause, here’s a short list of things you can check:

✅ Look for obvious leaks inside and outside the home.

✅ Listen for unusual sounds near the pressure tank or pump.

✅ Watch the pressure gauge. Does it ever shut off?

✅ Switch off the breaker to confirm the pump stops.

✅ Take note of water usage. Are you running irrigation or filling a pool?

If your water pump is constantly running, and you can’t immediately spot the problem, it’s time to dig deeper.

Plumbing Leaks

Leaks in your plumbing system are one of the most common reasons a water pump won’t shut off. Even a slow drip from an outdoor spigot or underground irrigation line can cause the pump to run continuously. The system senses a constant demand for water and responds by running the pump to meet it.

Solution:
Start by checking visible pipes, faucets, hose bibs, and toilet valves. If everything looks normal, you may need a professional to pressure test the system and locate any hidden leaks.

Pressure Switch Malfunction

The pressure switch controls when your pump turns on and off. It’s typically set to activate the pump when pressure drops below a certain PSI and turn it off once optimal pressure is restored. If the switch is stuck or malfunctioning, the pump may never get the signal to stop.

Solution:
You can visually inspect the switch for corrosion or damage. If the contacts are burnt or the switch doesn’t respond when pressure changes, it may need to be replaced. Adjustments to pressure settings should only be made by an experienced well technician.

Waterlogged Pressure Tank

The pressure tank stores water and helps regulate pressure in your home. Inside the tank is an air bladder or diaphragm that compresses as water fills the tank. When the bladder fails or loses air pressure, the tank can become waterlogged, forcing the pump to either cycle on and off or run continuously.

Solution:
Test the tank by gently tapping the side. If it sounds solid all the way up, it’s probably full of water and no longer functioning correctly. You can check the air pressure using a tire gauge on the tank’s air valve. A waterlogged tank often needs to be drained, recharged, or replaced.

Stuck or Failing Check Valve

The check valve prevents water from flowing back down into the well once it has been pumped up. When this valve fails or becomes stuck open, water can flow backward, reducing pressure and triggering the pump to run again. This creates a continuous cycle that won’t stop until the valve is repaired.

Solution:
A technician can remove and test the check valve to determine whether it’s sealing properly. Replacing a faulty valve is a relatively straightforward fix that can resolve the issue quickly.

Excessive Water Demand

Sometimes the problem isn’t mechanical at all; it’s usage-related. If your water pump is constantly running when operating irrigation systems, filling a swimming pool, or using multiple water-heavy appliances, it may simply be doing its job.

Solution:
Review your household’s recent water usage. If demand is unusually high, consider scheduling large water uses during off-hours or staggering them. For households with consistently high demand, upgrading to a larger pressure tank or a variable-speed pump might be a better long-term solution.

Electrical or Control Panel Issues

If everything else checks out and your pump still runs nonstop, the issue might lie in the control box or wiring. Faulty relays, short circuits, or corroded terminals can prevent the pump from receiving the correct signals.

Solution:
Electrical components should only be handled by trained professionals. A technician can safely open the control panel, inspect for damaged parts, and make necessary replacements.

Why Choose A1 Drilling and Pump Service

If your water pump is constantly running and the problem isn’t obvious, it’s best to bring in a team that knows well systems inside and out. At A1 Drilling and Pump Service, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing water pump issues quickly and effectively. Our technicians are trained to inspect every part of your system, from pressure switches and tanks to valves and wiring, so we can pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.

We don’t guess. We test, inspect, and confirm before making any repairs. And once the issue is fixed, we’ll provide guidance on how to prevent the problem from coming back.

Don’t wait until a simple fix turns into an expensive replacement. Contact us today to schedule your service call or system inspection. We’ll get your water flowing the way it should: reliably, efficiently, and without interruption.

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