It’s no secret that winter can be a challenging season for homeowners. Many things can go wrong, from the frigid temperatures and the snow and ice. One thing that you may not have considered is the potential for your sump pump to fail. During cold weather, a sump pump is more likely to fail due to certain environmental factors that can cause it to malfunction. This article will discuss some of the most common reasons why your sump pump might fail during winter and what you can do to prevent it from happening.
Frozen Discharge Pipe
During the chill of winter, your home’s sump pump system faces a unique challenge – a frozen discharge pipe. The discharge pipe releases water from your basement to prevent flooding. In cold climates, this pipe can freeze over and cause the sump pump to become blocked, reducing its effectiveness and causing it to fail. To prevent this, ensure the discharge line is properly insulated and free of any obstructions. Call a sump pump repair professional in Bloomington, IL immediately when you notice the slightest sign of a frozen pipe.
Loss of Power
A power outage can cause your sump pump to fail, as it relies on electricity to operate properly. If the electricity goes out due to a storm or other unforeseen event, you may have an overflowing basement that could lead to serious damage. Unfortunately, loss of power is all too common during winter. To prevent this, install a backup power source for your sump pump, such as a generator or battery backup system. This will ensure that your sump pump continues to operate even if the electricity goes out.
Excess Moisture
In winter, people worry about their pipes freezing, but for homeowners with sump pumps, moisture can be an even greater concern. High humidity combined with below-freezing temperatures can create a deadly combination for pumps by putting excess wear and tear on them. The frozen ground also prevents sump pumps from working properly since they cannot push any water outside because the groundwater is tied up in ice formations.
This can cause flooding and damage to the system’s electrical components. To combat this, install a reliable sump pump designed to handle cold weather conditions. In addition, when you notice the ground starting to freeze, have a sump pump repair professional inspect your pump immediately. This will help ensure it can handle the excess moisture and freezing temperatures without becoming overwhelmed.
Snow and Ice Blocking Airflow
Another common reason your sump pump can fail during the winter is due to snow and ice blocking airflow. The sump pump relies on air moving freely around it to retain its mechanical efficiency and prevent water from flowing back into the basement. When snow and ice block the airflow, the pump can become overwhelmed and stop functioning. To prevent this, remove snow and ice from the sump pump area by clearing it regularly. Installing a cover on the sump pump may also help reduce airflow blockages. These simple steps can go a long way in saving you from costly sump pump repairs during winter.
A Condensed Motor
In the winter, a common cause of sump pump failure can be attributed to a condensed motor. As temperatures drop below freezing, condensation accumulates on and inside the motor due to water saturation, creating freeze points and obstructions that impede normal motor operation. Eventually, this leads to a complete shutdown of the sump pump and a greater risk of flooding in vulnerable basements and crawlspaces. Fortunately, there are preventative measures one can take to ensure their sump pump is running well and prepared for colder seasons – from purchasing frost-proof pumps to scheduling regular maintenance with a sump pump repair expert.
A Condensed Pump Housing
In addition to an overly condensed motor, the pump housing can also become encased with ice and snow. This will prevent water from flowing through the sump pump freely, leading to a loss of suction power and an eventual failure. When this happens, the pump won’t be able to push water out of the basement or crawlspace, leaving you vulnerable to flooding. To prevent this from happening, check your sump pump housing for ice and snow build-up every winter season. You can also use a de-icing cable or a heating element to help keep your sump pump from freezing.
The Seal of the Impeller
Finally, the seal of the impeller can also be a major cause of sump pump failure during winter weather. This is because cold temperatures can cause rubber parts to become brittle and prone to cracking, making them less reliable at preventing water seepage between different rotating and stationary components of the pump. To help prevent this from happening, have your sump pump inspected by a sump pump repair professional and replace any worn seals with heavy-duty ones designed to withstand colder temperatures.
Don’t Wait Until You Have a Problem
While a sump pump repairs professional in Bloomington, IL can help you diagnose and fix any winter-related sump pump issues; it’s best to take preventative measures before the problem arises. Therefore, scheduling regular maintenance with a sump pump repair specialist is important to ensure your pump continues working properly during winter and all year. From cleaning and lubricating the unit to inspecting for any potential issues, they can help extend the lifespan of your sump pump. Plus, they can help you identify any problems early on, so you don’t have to worry about flooding or costly repairs later.
Need a Sump Pump Professional? Call Us Now
If you suspect your pump is failing or need sump pump repair services in Bloomington, IL, don’t hesitate to call Covenant Plumbing. We have experienced, knowledgeable technicians who can diagnose and fix any sump pump issue quickly and efficiently. With our help, you can rest assured that your basement will stay dry during even the coldest winters. Contact us now to schedule your sump pump repair appointment!
