Elements drive running constantly

Hi,

I am using a WD elements portable 2T drive for Time Machine backups on my iMac, running Big Sur 11.2.

The drive has begun running constantly if the computer is awake, even if it is not making a back up. I turned off auto back ups, but that did nothing. The only way to get it to stop running is to eject it, or put the 'puter to sleep.

I tried to contact support via chat - that was a joke. Does anyone here have any ideas?

Thanks in advance,

Marj