Sump Pump Tips

12/2/2024 (Permalink)

How to Prevent the Sump Pump Line from Freezing

When the sump pump discharge hose freezes, your sump pump has to work harder. This can be the result of the heat and may fail completely as a consequence of overheating. The next time water builds up in your sump basin, this could be problematic for your home. Follow these precautions to avoid your sump pump line from freezing and flooding.

Sump Pump Maintenance Tips:

Outside of your house, make sure the sump pump discharge line is sunken in the ground or raised above grade at a downward angle.  To protect the pipe from freezing, bury it at least five inches below the frost line (the maximum depth of ground below which the soil doesn’t freeze).

Connect a freeze-resistant hose to the end of the discharge hose. Discharge water at least 20 feet from the foundation. Use a smooth, rigid hose to ensure there is no place for water to accumulate. Water in pipes that are too straightened is more prone to freeze-this is a detail many are not aware of.

To keep the discharge and intake sections of the sump pump from freezing, insulate them and the pipe connecting the two. Cover the outside pipe with anything that won’t block the pump but will block the weather. Don’t put any anti-freeze in the sump pump that's a bigger problem.

Check your sump basin and test the sump pump from time to time to ensure that it is in good working order.

If your sump pump pipe is frozen, use portable heaters to thaw it. Don’t use a blow torch to melt the line because you risk hurting yourself or damaging the property. If you can’t thaw the hose on your own, turn off the sump pump and call a professional plumber.

SERVPRO of Bloomington/Pontiac is here for your water needs. Our staff is trained on exactly how to fix water damage issues and get your home back to the space you need.

Call us today at 309-827-7500 or visit our website at www.SERVPRObloomingtonpontiac.com.