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Fix a septic pump that will not run

We'll check power, the float switch, and the pump—or tell you when to call a septic professional.

Troubleshooting · Home plumbing
15–30 min
What you'll need
  • None (do not reach into the tank)
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Steps

Goal: Check power, the float switch, and get the pump running.

  • Check the circuit breaker for the septic pump. Reset if tripped.
  • If you can access the float switch safely, gently move it up to see if the pump starts.
  • Good: Pump runs. Bad: Pump will not run—call a septic professional.

Check breaker

Goal: Ensure the pump has power.

  • Locate and reset the circuit breaker. Listen for the pump.
  • Good: Breaker stays on. Bad: Breaker trips again—call a septic professional.

Check float

Goal: Verify the float switch triggers the pump.

  • Gently move the float up if accessible. The pump should run. Do not reach into the tank.
  • Good: Pump runs. Bad: Pump silent or hums—call a septic professional.

When to get help

Call a septic professional if:

  • The breaker keeps tripping.
  • The float is stuck or you cannot access it safely.
  • The pump hums but does not run (jammed).
  • The pump is silent when the float is raised.

Do not reach into the tank—gas inside is dangerous.

Verification

  • The pump runs when the tank level rises.
  • No high-water alarm (if you have one).

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Check breaker Reset the circuit breaker for the septic pump.
  2. Check float Verify the float switch is not stuck; gently move it if accessible.
  3. Listen for pump Confirm the pump runs when the float rises.
  4. Call septic pro Breaker trips, float stuck, pump jammed or burned out—call a septic professional.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Breaker status
  • Float switch condition (if visible)
  • Whether the pump runs when float is raised
  • Steps already tried

Is the circuit breaker for the pump on?

A tripped breaker is a common cause of pump failure.

Check the circuit breaker for the septic pump. Reset if tripped. Good: breaker on—check the float. Bad: breaker trips again immediately—short circuit; call a septic professional.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Is the float switch stuck or inaccessible?

The float must rise to trigger the pump. A stuck float prevents the pump from running.

If you can access the float switch safely, gently move it up. Does the pump run? Runs: float was stuck—monitor. Does not run: float may be failed or pump may be jammed—call a septic professional. Do not reach into the tank.

Yes (pump runs) No

You can change your answer later.

Pump is working

The pump runs when the float rises. If it was stuck, it may stick again—monitor. If problems persist, call a septic professional.

Done

Call a septic professional

Call a septic professional if: the breaker keeps tripping, the float is stuck or inaccessible, the pump hums but does not run (jammed), or the pump is silent when the float is raised. Do not reach into the tank—gas is dangerous.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a septic pump not run?
Common causes: tripped circuit breaker, stuck or failed float switch, jammed impeller, or a burned-out motor. The float switch turns the pump on when the tank level rises; if it is stuck low, the pump will not run.
Can I fix a septic pump myself?
You can check the circuit breaker and, if accessible, gently move the float to see if the pump starts. Do not reach into the tank—gas is dangerous. Pump replacement and float work inside the tank require a septic professional.
When should I call a septic professional?
Call a septic professional if: the breaker keeps tripping, the float is stuck or in a hard-to-reach location, the pump hums but does not run (jammed or burned out), or you need to replace the pump. Tank work requires a licensed pro.

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