Sump Pump & Discharge Line Service in Manitoba
Installation, repair, and frozen discharge line solutions throughout Stonewall, Winnipeg, and the Interlake region
Protect Your Basement from Flooding
A properly functioning sump pump is your basement's first line of defense against water damage. Whether you're dealing with spring snowmelt, heavy rains, or high groundwater, Patterson Mechanical provides complete sump pump services throughout Stonewall, Winnipeg, and the Interlake region.
Since 2011, we've helped Manitoba homeowners keep their basements dry with reliable sump pump installation, repair, and maintenance. We also specialize in solving one of winter's most frustrating problems—frozen discharge lines.
Sump Pump Installation
Whether you need a new sump pump system or replacement of an existing unit, we provide complete installation services:
- New sump pit installation: Proper excavation and pit installation with check valves
- Pump sizing: Correctly sized pumps based on your water volume and lift requirements
- Discharge line routing: Proper slope and placement to prevent freezing and backflow
- Electrical connections: Safe, code-compliant wiring with dedicated circuits
- Battery backup systems: Protection against power outages when you need pumping most
- Alarm systems: High-water alarms to alert you to pump problems
Sump Pump Repair
When your sump pump fails, basement flooding can happen quickly. We provide fast repair service for:
- Pump not running: Switch failures, electrical issues, motor problems
- Pump running constantly: Float switch issues, check valve failures, sizing problems
- Pump cycling too frequently: Float adjustment, pit sizing issues
- Unusual noises: Bearing wear, impeller damage, cavitation
- Reduced pumping capacity: Clogged intake, worn impeller, motor issues
- Check valve replacement: Preventing water from flowing back into the pit
Frozen Discharge Line Service
Manitoba winters create a unique challenge for sump pump owners—frozen discharge lines. When the discharge line freezes, water backs up into your basement even though the pump is working. We provide emergency thawing and prevention services:
Signs of a Frozen Discharge Line
- Sump pump runs but water level doesn't drop
- Water backing up around the sump pit
- Pump cycling rapidly or running continuously
- Ice visible at the discharge point outside
- Pump straining or making unusual sounds
Why Discharge Lines Freeze
- Water sitting in the line: Without proper slope, water remains in the pipe and freezes
- Discharge too close to house: Cold air around foundation freezes the line
- Shallow burial: Lines not buried deep enough below frost line
- Extended extreme cold: Prolonged -30°C and colder temperatures
- Infrequent pump cycles: Water sits long enough to freeze between cycles
Prevention Solutions
After thawing your discharge line, we can implement solutions to prevent future freeze-ups:
- Freeze-resistant discharge: Specialized fittings that allow water to exit even if the buried line freezes
- Heat trace cable: Electric heating cable along vulnerable sections
- Proper slope and drainage: Ensuring water drains completely from the line
- Insulated discharge lines: Protection for above-ground and shallow sections
- Extended discharge points: Moving the outlet away from the foundation
- Larger diameter lines: More volume means longer freeze time
Battery Backup Systems
Power outages often occur during storms—exactly when your sump pump is needed most. A battery backup system keeps your pump running when the power goes out:
- DC backup pumps: Battery-powered pumps that activate during outages
- Battery monitoring: Systems that alert you when battery needs replacement
- Combination systems: Primary and backup pumps in one unit
- Water-powered backups: Use municipal water pressure to power backup pumping
Sump Pump Maintenance
Regular maintenance extends pump life and ensures reliability when you need it:
- Test pump operation by pouring water into the pit
- Clean the pump intake screen
- Check and test the float switch
- Verify check valve operation
- Inspect discharge line for obstructions
- Test battery backup systems
Emergency Service
A failed sump pump during a storm or spring melt is an emergency. We respond quickly to sump pump failures and frozen discharge lines to prevent basement flooding and water damage.
Looking for other solutions? Explore our complete plumbing services to see how we can help with all your water system needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my sump pump discharge line freeze?
Discharge lines freeze when water sits in the pipe between pump cycles and temperatures drop below freezing. Common causes include insufficient slope for drainage, discharge points too close to the house, buried lines that aren't deep enough, and extended periods of extreme cold.
How long do sump pumps last?
Most sump pumps last 7-10 years with proper maintenance. Factors affecting lifespan include how often the pump runs, water quality (sediment and minerals), and whether the pump is properly sized for your needs. Regular testing and maintenance can extend pump life.
Do I need a battery backup for my sump pump?
A battery backup is highly recommended for Manitoba homes. Power outages often occur during storms—exactly when your sump pump is needed most. A backup system provides peace of mind and protection against flooding when the power goes out.
Need Sump Pump Service?
Contact Patterson Mechanical for sump pump installation, repair, and frozen discharge line solutions in Stonewall, Winnipeg, and surrounding areas.