If your home contains a basement, it likely also has a sump pump. This helpful device prevents flooding and moisture accumulation in the space. Unfortunately, if your basement is not well-insulated, the pump won’t be protected during the winter and could freeze. Use the following tips to prevent that from happening.

How to Protect Your Sump Pump From Winter Damage

1. Leave the Heat On

It’s natural for the lower areas of your home to be cooler than the upper levels. This is why the basement is often much colder than other rooms and more susceptible to freezing. Set the thermostat to 55 degrees or higher to keep the room and sump pump warm enough so that the water inside the discharge hose doesn’t freeze.

2. Get the Proper Inspections

A professional can check the sump pump and its attachments to ensure they function correctly in the spring. The technician should inspect the discharge line for potential blockages that could cause problems in the winter. They may also check the float to ensure it’s not jammed or tangled.

3. Insulate the Drain Line

If you’d prefer to keep your sump pump running during winter, insulate the drain line leading away from your home. Many times, it’s not the freezing water that causes the pump to fail prematurely, but it’s the inability to drain the line properly. When this happens, the pump must work harder to expel the water. By insulating the line, you protect it from outside air that can cause water to freeze and obstruct the drain opening.

Keep your basement protected from flooding year-round by contacting the professionals at Downs Drain & Septic Service for a sump pump installation. Since 1965, this family-owned and -operated company has provided plumbing, septic system, and drain cleaning services to Summit and Medina counties, OH. Their licensed contractors install Liberty Pumps® and stay up-to-date on the latest state and EPA regulations. Call (330) 929-5555 for an estimate, and visit their website to learn more about their septic inspections and other services.