Unfortunately, your sump pump is prone to freezing during winter. Although it is meant to direct rainwater and melted snow out of your basement, it won’t be able to do so when the discharge hose freezes. When this happens, the sump pump will exert more effort, causing it to overheat and eventually fail. The good news is that you can protect your unit against freezing by following a few easy steps, which Carter’s Plumbing, one of the dependable sump pump companies in Waterford Township, MI, lists below:
1. Add Insulation
Insulating the discharge line and intake section can make a huge difference in preventing a frozen sump pump. For outdoor pipes, you can use hay and a tarp. You can count on our team to add insulation to your unit during sump pump maintenance.
2. Keep Your Water Running
Water freezes fast when it’s still, so ensure it continuously flows when the temperatures start to plummet. Even a teensy bit of ice at the bottom of the sump pump can increase the likelihood of more ice forming, which can keep water from flowing. This strains the unit, causing it to buckle and stop working. When this happens, call us immediately for sump pump repair in Waterford Township, MI.
3. Give Your Sump Pump a Slight Slope
Extend the discharge line away from your home at a downward slope and let gravity do its wonders. This helps water smoothly flow and minimizes the risk of it freezing. If your home isn’t on a natural slope, we will help you tune up your sump pump installation to create one.
4. Reduce Its Workload
Redirect excess water away from your basement by using other forms of drainage. This way, you can ease the burden on your unit and avoid an untimely sump pump replacement. Let us help you assess your home and determine the best way to do this.
Protect your sump pump during the coldest months of the year with these simple measures. If you need help with winterizing your sump pump, Carter’s Plumbing is just a call away. Schedule an appointment with our team today, and we’ll be ready to assist you.
