How to Prevent Sump Pump Discharge Line from Freezing

What happens when a sump pump discharge line freezes?

When temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, water freezes. We all know that. But that also means that any water in or around the discharge line can freeze. And when a sump pump discharge line freezes, a few problems can happen that will compromise your sump pump system. 

1. It will clog. If ice forms in your discharge line, it will create a blockage and impede the normal flow of water. This will cause the sump pump line to work harder and could even cause the motor to burn out. 
2. It will back up and overflow. With the discharge line blocked, water from the sump pump has nowhere to go. This leads to backups in the sump pit and, ultimately, flood in your basement. 
3. Your pump will be damaged. As the sump pump operates against the resistance of the frozen discharge line, it will experience increased stress. Over time, this stress leads to premature wear and tear on the pump components and causes them to malfunction or quit altogether. 
4. Water damage can happen. The purpose of a sump pump is to prevent water damage to your basement. When the discharge line is frozen, this protection is compromised, and the risk of water damage increases. 
5. Pressure will build up. As the pump operates against the frozen blockage, pressure can build up in the discharge line. This increased pressure can cause the pipe to rupture or joints to weaken, leading to leaks once the ice thaws. 
6. Your foundation can be compromised. If the frozen discharge line causes water to pool near the foundation, it can result in soil expansion and contraction as the water freezes and thaws. This leads to pressure on your foundation walls, causing cracks or other structural issues. 

What to do if your sump pump discharge line is frozen

1. Identify the blockage. The first thing you need to do is find the location of the ice blockage. This will help you focus your efforts on the specific area that needs attention. 
2. Thaw the ice. You can use a hairdryer, heat gun or hot water to melt the ice. Be cautious about using excessive heat though, as this could damage your pipe.
3. Insulate the pipe. Once the ice has melted, insulate the discharge line to prevent it from freezing again. Add heat tape or foam pip insulation to vulnerable areas. 
4. Check on your sump pump. Make sure the pump is still working correctly. Ice blockages can put a lot of stress and pressure on your sump pump. If the pump has been continuously running, give it some time to cool down before resuming regular operation.
5. Take preventative measures. Now you're probably thinking, how do I make sure this never happens again? That's exactly why we outlined all the preventative measures in the previous section. All the details you need are just a scroll away. 

When in doubt, consult a professional

If you are experiencing difficulties or are completely unsure how to address the issue, we strongly recommend consulting professional sump pump specialists, like our service technicians. They can provide expert advice and ensure your sump pump is functioning the way it should be. When it comes to sump pumps, we've got the know-how. Give us a call today to get a FREE, no obligation estimate on new services or to schedule your annual maintenance!