Sump pump discharge in winter

  1. Check your sump pump discharge pipe regularly to ensure that it does not freeze.
  2. The sump pump discharge pipe should be directed a minimum of 1.5 metres away from the foundation.
  3. Your pipe should be sloped so that water drains out and does not sit and freeze inside the hose.

How do you insulate a sump pump discharge pipe?

Insulate Sump Pump Discharge Line and The Intake Section A simple way is covering the outside pipe with hay (a natural insulator) and a tarp. Or, you can purchase a larger diameter pipe from your local hardware and attach it to the end of your sump pump hose using wires or clamps.

What do you do with a frozen sump pump?

Here are some things to consider if a frozen sump pump is causing you grief. The most obvious thing to do is to defrost the pump, unfreeze the lines, and raise the temperature in your basement, but if it is the middle of winter that might not be an option. Plus, you don’ t want to damage the pump while warming it up.

How can I Keep my sump pump from freezing?

To prevent your sump pump line from freezing, follow these tips: Ensure that the sump pump discharge line outside the home is either buried in the yard, or extended out above-grade at a downward slope.

How to prevent your sump pump line from collecting?

The slope doesn’t have to be steep, but rather continuous so that the water flows. Connect a freeze-resistant hose to the end of the discharge hose. The hose should discharge water at least 20-feet away from the foundation. Use a smooth, rigid hose so that there is no place for water to collect.

What happens when water in sump pit freezes?

When you have frozen water in your sump pit, the sump pump will suck frozen water that can clog the lines and overwork the sump pump. It’s best to get rid of that excess water in your sump pit.

Can a frozen discharge line damage a sump pump?

The winter season brings with it more than frigid temperatures, but a lot of plumbing problems, and unfortunately your sump pump is no exception. A frozen discharge line not only puts your basement at risk, but it can seriously damage your sump pump.