March 8, 2023

Sump Pumps Can Be Your Friend For Spring Snow Melt

As we near winter’s end, almost 25 inches of snow have accumulated in the Denver Area and even more in our mountain communities. The more snow we get the better the ski season, but the spring thaw can result in unwanted water in your home.

Keep Your Home Dry During Spring Thaw

The most common issue is poor drainage. All that water must go somewhere! A simple first step is unclogging drains and gutters, and clearing debris that may have gathered over the winter months.  Second, move that water away from the home. This is where a sump pump can be your best friend.

Is Your Sump Pump Working Properly?

Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric recommends regular testing to ensure your sump pump is working properly. Make sure the sump pump intake and discharge are free from blockage. As temperatures dip, maintaining heat in the sump pump area is also important to prevent the pit and pipes from freezing. Have a licensed plumber assess your system regularly to ensure it’s functioning its best.

Sump Pump Freeze Relief

The tricky part of snowmelt is that it often refreezes at night. This can cause problems with your sump pump, too, causing it to freeze as well.  If your sump pump lines freeze follow these five steps to correct these common plumbing issues:

1. Turn off the power of the unit by unplugging the sump pump and/or cutting the power by the breaker.
2. Inspect the discharge of the sump pump outside your home. Remove any snow, ice, or other materials that block the exit of the sump pump.
3. If the discharge of the line is clogged near the exit, apply heat near the drain opening to melt the clog.
4. Disconnect the drain line from the sump pump.
5. Empty water left in the sump pump’s pit using a wet/dry vacuum or a bucket.

Pour boiling water through the drain line to melt the clog. Continue this process until the blockage is thawed and water freely flows through the drain. Then, reconnect the line and restore power to the sump pump.

Sump Pump Repair Near Me

Applewood’s licensed technicians are your local Denver, Boulder and Longmont sump pump experts. If your pump isn’t keeping your home dry, if it’s freezing or if you need a new sump pump, call us today. Our local home services team is ready to make sure spring thaw doesn’t catch you off guard.