Why Is My Sump Pump Running but Not Moving Water?

The most common reason a sump pump runs without moving water is a clogged intake screen. Dirt, gravel, or small objects can block the openings at the bottom of the pump, preventing water from entering. When the screen is blocked, the motor runs but the impeller cannot pull water, so nothing moves.

Turn off the power to the pump before inspecting it. Lift the pump out of the pit and clear away any debris from the screen and the surrounding area. Rinse the screen with a hose if needed. If the screen is cracked or damaged, you may need a replacement part.

• Turn off power before touching the pump
• Lift the pump and inspect the intake screen
• Remove debris with a brush or water
• Check for cracks or damage in the screen
• Reinstall the pump securely after cleaning

The impeller is the rotating part inside the pump that pushes water outward. If the impeller is worn, broken, or jammed with debris, the motor may spin but the impeller won't turn properly. This often happens after the pump has run dry or has sucked in sand or small stones.

To check the impeller, you may need to open the pump's volute or housing, depending on the model. Look for cracks or missing blades. If the impeller is stuck, clean out any debris. A damaged impeller usually requires a replacement part, which you can order from the pump manufacturer.

If you have checked the intake, float, impeller, and discharge line and the pump still runs dry, the problem might be electrical or internal. A failing motor capacitor or a burned-out winding can cause the motor to hum without actually spinning the pump. These issues are not safe for a homeowner to repair.

In that case, local water damage pros can inspect the pump and the pit. They can also check for groundwater issues that might be affecting the pump's performance. If your pit has flooded or the pump has caused water damage, the pros can help with extraction and cleanup. Keep the pump's model number handy to speed up the diagnosis.