Newly installed sump pump sitting in a basement sump pit

Sump pump keeps burning out (short pump life)

Pumps die early from too many starts or running too long: a small pit with a short on/off range, a missing or failed check valve that lets the pipe drain back, a float that sticks, a pump that is undersized (runs forever) or oversized (empties the pit in seconds), debris in an open pit, or a standard pump used where continuous duty is needed. Fix the cause before installing another pump.

Cross-checked ~60 min moderateBrands: All

Before you start

Unplug the pump before reaching into the pit
Use the GFCI receptacle the pump is meant for; do not use extension cords

Diagnostic steps

Unlock all 5 steps with expected values

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