The crisp wind in your face, the iced up windshield, the snow blowing, shoveling your driveway, and the frozen sump pump lines - yes, it's winter! Although they might not be the first thing that pops into your mind in winter, frozen sump pump lines can be more than just a minor inconvenience during this time year. If you don't take the proper precautions, a frozen sump pump line can do some major damage to your home and your wallet.

Frozen Sump Pump Line Prevention

You can help prevent a frozen sump pump line from happening with a few simple and effect techniques.

Use heat tape around the part of the drainage line that is not insulated. Do this prior to winter, before the potential to get a frozen sump pump line.
Cover your drainage lines with an extra layer of poly insulation.
Pack hay on top of the drainage line after the poly insulation.

Frozen sump pump lines can also be avoided with proper sump pump installation into the ground. Keep in mind that soft soil, clay, and dirt are not suitable spots for sump pump installation as they can potentially freeze. Instead, consider gravel, crushed stone, and sand (my top recommended choice if possible). These surfaces provide much better drainage capability and are less likely to freeze.

Frozen Sump Pump Line Repair

If in the terrible event your sump pumps lines are frozen, consider getting the IceGuard system. The iceguard system is a fitting that is attached to the discharge line outside your home. It has a patented shape that allows water to escape from a sump pump drainage system if the pipe freezes or becomes blocked for any reason.Even if the pipe outlet is buried under a foot of ice and snow, the water can escape, allowing your sump pump to keep your basement dry. When the discharge pipe thaws, the water will automatically run along its normal route, and no water will escape from the IceGuard. There are no valves to turn, hoses to attach, or anything for the homeowner to do at all - it's totally automatic!

Once in place, IceGuard will automatically perform the required tasks, providing peace of mind to homeowners during harsh winter months. With an opening of approximately one and a half to two feet, the IceGuard is will keep water flowing, thereby preventing frozen sump pump lines.