How To Avoid Frozen Sump Pump Pipes
Sump pumps usually aren’t needed until early spring — when all of the snow and ice begins to melt and we’re hit with heavy seasonal rains. So, why are we talking about them in the dead of winter? Well, as with most plumbing pipes that are subject to frigid temperatures, sump pump pipes can freeze and crack if a little bit of mandatory maintenance is neglected each year. See below to find out how to avoid this common problem:
The Problem With Sump Pump Pipes
Although they certainly come in handy, especially if your basement is subject to water intrusion, many homeowners believe a sump pump’s discharge pipes are unsightly. We’re not here to judge whether or not we agree with that belief, but we are here to state the facts. As a result of getting tired of looking at pipes and/or hoses sticking out of the side of homes, homeowners often begin brainstorming different ways for water to be carried out of the house.
One common, but not so trusty, solution is to extend and bury the discharge pipes underground. However, this brings up one potentially catastrophic potential outcome — frozen pipes.
Why Sump Pump Pipes Freeze
If sump pump pipes are not buried deep enough below the frost line, they will subject to freezing, or below freezing temperatures, which could cause any stagnant water in the lines to freeze. As most of us know, water expands as it freezes which puts tremendous stress on pipes and in many cases, the pipes give way by means of cracking or exploding.
Pro Tip: if you are going to bury sump pump discharge pipes, it’s vital to leave a gap between them. This way, if water does freeze it still has a place to go. It’s also just as important to remove the extension hose in the winter because if you don’t you could run into similar issues.
Sump Pump Installation & Repair in St. Paul
Your best bet is to leave all sump pump installation and repair work to the pros. At Hero Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we specialize in all things sump pumps so don’t hesitate to give us a call! We’ve been serving the entire Twin Cities area for over 100 years, so you know you can count on us!
