Sump Pump Discharge Line Installation & Repair Toronto, GTA & Beyond

Common Sump Pump Discharge Line Repairs Toronto

What are the Common Problems with Sump Pump Discharge Lines?

The sump pump discharge system has to be designed properly. Arguably, it is one of the most important elements of the sump pump system. A clogged discharge line will lead to water not finding it’s exit from your basement and as a result, flooding the basement or otherwise damaging your property.

It is important to hire a specialist for sump pump discharge line installation as this will help prevent potential problems that can cause sump pump overflowing,  basement floods, and property damage. Here are a couple of sump pump discharge issues we see most often in Toronto, GTA & Southern Ontario:

• Frozen Sump Pump Discharge Line – a common problem in colder climates like Toronto’s. Frozen discharge lines can be a significant concern. If the discharge line is not properly insulated or buried below the frost line, water in the line can freeze, leading to blockages and potentially causing the pump to malfunction or the pipe to burst.

• Clogged Sump Pump Discharge Line – sump pump discharge lines can become clogged over time. Debris such as dirt, leaves, or small rocks may enter the line, obstructing the flow of water. If not addressed promptly, clogs can lead to pump failure or water backup in the sump pit.

• Animals in Sump Pump – small animals like mice and squirrels can live in your drainage system if the sump pump discharge line outlet is not protected properly.

• Discharge Pipe Size - it's important to ensure that the discharge pipe is adequately sized for the pump's capacity. If the pipe is too small, it can restrict water flow and cause the pump to work harder, potentially leading to premature wear and failure.

• Water not Discharged Properly – if the sump pump discharge line outlet is located too close to the foundation of your home it can accumulate around the foundation and cause the wet basement problems to get worse. It can also cause water to accumulate on the surface around the discharge line outlet.

• Water Flowing Back to the Sump Pump – often happens due to the lack of a check valve. The valve is typically installed in the discharge line to prevent water from flowing back into the sump pit after the pump shuts off. If a check valve is missing or fails to function correctly, water can return to the sump pit, causing the pump to cycle unnecessarily and increasing the risk of pump wear.

• Corrosion & deterioration - over time, sump pump discharge lines may experience corrosion or deterioration due to the constant exposure to water, especially if the pipe material is not resistant to these effects. Corrosion can lead to leaks or pipe failure, necessitating repairs or replacement.

• Discharge line back-pitch - if the discharge line is not properly sloped away from the sump pump, water may accumulate in certain sections, leading to stagnant water, potential clogs, or even a backflow into the sump pit.

Sump pumps are NOT set & forget. It is important to ensure regular maintenance and inspection of the sump pump, including the discharge line can help identify and address these problems before they cause significant issues.

Get one of our experts on the phone today to discuss your sump pump drainage system needs & to find the best approach to fixing it. Start with 10% off today!