The winter chill has definitely been hitting the GTA, as of late. As a result, many homeowners in Durham and the surrounding areas have turned their attention to snow removal and heating. During this process, there is often one crucial step that gets overlooked. We’re talking about checking in on your sump pump.
While it’s easy to associate basement flooding with spring rains or summer storms, winter brings its own set of moisture-related risks. Between melting snow, sudden thaws and freezing temperatures, your sump pump plays a critical role in keeping your basement dry and your home protected.
What does a sump pump actually do?
A sump pump is typically installed in the lowest point of a basement or crawlspace. Its main purpose is to collect and remove excess groundwater before it can seep into your home. This water could come from melting snow, frozen ground runoff or rain that accumulates around the foundation.
Once the water reaches a certain level in the sump pit, the pump activates and sends it safely away from the house. In winter, this system becomes even more vital. Rapid freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snowfalls can saturate the soil around your foundation, increasing the risk of water intrusion and basement flooding.
What are the risks of a failing sump pump in cold weather?
One of the most immediate problems is basement flooding. As snow melts, water can quickly overwhelm a non-functioning pump. This can lead to water-damaged floors, furniture and personal belongings. Water intrusion also poses a threat to your home’s structure. Prolonged exposure can cause foundation cracks and wall damage. These are far costlier to repair than a basic sump pump issue.
Another major concern is mould and mildew. Moisture that isn’t properly drained can create the perfect environment for mould to grow. This can cause respiratory issues and reduce your indoor air quality. Furthermore, winter adds complications such as frozen discharge lines and power outages. Without a battery backup, your sump pump won’t function during blackouts. If the discharge line is frozen, water has nowhere to go.
How can you winter-proof your sump pump?
Start by testing your pump. Pour water into the sump pit to see if it activates properly and removes the water efficiently. Cleaning the pit to remove dirt and debris is another easy step that prevents clogging.
If you don’t already have a battery backup, consider installing one. Winter storms often cause power failures. A backup system ensures your pump keeps working during outages. To prevent frozen discharge lines, insulate the pipe or bury it below the frost line. It’s also wise to inspect your pump at least once a season.
Do you have a noisy or malfunctioning sump pump?
At 2 Bro’s Plumbing, we offer expert sump pump and sump pit services to keep your basement dry and protected. Our Durham Region family-owned company has been serving the community since 2015 with quality plumbing services you can rely on. Let us inspect, repair or replace your sump pump system for peace of mind.
Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 905-556-0790, email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca or fill out the form on our Contact page for a free quote today!
