Shower pump runs when tap turned off

Question

Why would the shower pump be running when the tap has been turned off? What's causing this and is it something I need to get fixed? If so, what am I looking at for that job?

Lukasz · Answer

This is normally caused by the flow switch inside the pump quite often if there is dirt in the water and it holds the float switch or flow switch in position causing the pump to continually run
Or there is a leak somewhere and the pump thinks there is flow and has to work with pressure

Olivian Florin · Answer

Step One : Check Valve / Non-Return Valve Issue
Most shower pumps have a check valve to prevent water from flowing back into the system.
If the valve is stuck or faulty, water can leak back, causing the pump to run continuously.
Step Two : Internal Leak in the Pump
Over time, seals inside the pump can wear out.
A leak past the pump’s impeller can make it think it still needs to run.
Step three : Faulty Pressure Switch / Sensor
Shower pumps have a pressure switch to detect water flow.
If it’s defective, the pump may stay on even when water isn’t flowing.
Step four: Plumbing Leak / Cross-Connection
Sometimes a small leak or a connection between hot and cold lines can keep pressure on the pump, tricking it into running.
It's one of this.

Josh · Answer

Inside the pump is a flow switch or pressure sensor.

If it sticks:
	•	Pump keeps running even when flow stops.

Fix:
	•	Replace pressure/flow switch
	•	Sometimes replace control PCB

Typical cost:

Parts:
	•	£30–£90

Labour:
	•	£100–£150

Total: £130–£250

Dan · Answer

This is normally caused by the flow switch inside the pump quite often if there is dirt in the water and it holds the float switch or flow switch in position causing the pump to continually run

Depending on the age of the pump, sun comes with two years or even five years for a higher and model you can get the manufacturer out under a warranty call

We tend to just change the pump as if it's out of warranty the cost to Repair can quite often be the same price as a new pump installation anyway

Lake · Answer

A shower pump that keeps running after the taps are closed is a common but annoying issue. It usually points to a mechanical "confusion" within the pump’s sensors.

Here is the breakdown of why this is happening and what you should do about it.

Why is it still running?
Shower pumps are triggered by flow switches or pressure sensors. If the pump doesn't realize the water has stopped, it stays engaged.

Stuck Flow Switch: This is the most common culprit. A tiny internal magnet or plastic "paddle" detects water movement. If it gets jammed by limescale or debris, it stays in the "on" position even when the water stops.

Air Locks: If air is trapped in the pump or the pipework, it can cause the sensors to "bounce" or misread the pressure, keeping the motor running.

Expansion/Leaks: A small leak elsewhere in the system (even a dripping tap or a toilet cistern filling very slowly) can create enough "creep" in the water movement to keep a sensitive pump active.

Non-Return Valve Failure: If the non-return valve is faulty, water can flow backward, tricking the pump into thinking there is a demand for water.

Luke · Answer

There could be a leak on the hot or cold feeds 
To keep the pump continuously 
Running

most likely a faulty pump,,I’ve had this on many occasions

Cost depends on the brand of pump
That’s been installed

Michael · Answer

There is a leak somewhere on the pipework to the pump probably. Or the pump itself is faulty

Shower pump runs when tap turned off

Follow Us

Cookies

Manage Cookies

Essential cookies

Analytics & Tracking

Advertising