Canadian winters are known for the abundance of snow they bring. But once the weather warms up, melting snow can become a real problem for homeowners and lead to flooded basements. Many homeowners have prepared for such scenarios by installing a sump pump. The main function of a sump pump is to discharge excess water from inside your home when the water level in the sump pit rises.
Ensuring the sump pump is working properly and the drain line is free from obstruction can be a tedious task, but throw in the cold temperatures and your sump pump will be at risk for a frozen drain line. We’ve created a step-by-step guide that you can refer to when trying to fix a frozen sump pump.
Thaw out a frozen sump pump
- Turn off the power to the sump pump and make sure it’s switched off at the breaker box.
- Assess the exterior area where the drain line empties. Inspect the end of the line and remove any blockages caused by ice or snow. If you notice there is a build-up of ice near the end of the line, simply melt the ice by using a space heater. If the ice is further down the line, proceed with the following steps:
- Drain out the water remaining in the sump pump pit by using a small submersible pump or a wet/dry vacuum. Otherwise, using a cup or bucket to physically bail out the water will work just as well.
- Using a small screwdriver or wrench to loosen the line, detach the drain line from the pump.
- Once detached, carefully pour boiling water down the sump pump’s drain line. Ensure that the excess water that backs into the sump pump pit is removed as needed.
- Continue with this method until the line is thawed completely and drains easily. Patience is key, as it may take repeated attempts to completely thaw the ice.
- Once the drain line is free from any blockage, reconnect the line to the pump and turn the power back on from the breaker box.
With a few simple steps, you’ll have your sump pump working in no time and keep your home protected from costly water damage caused by flooding.
If you’re still experiencing sump pump problems or would rather leave the repair to an expert, we can help with that too! Look at our list of plumbing contractors and find a professional in your area.
