The Regional Water Reclamation Facility is reminding residents in Fargo and surrounding communities to take steps to prevent frozen sump pump discharge lines and hazardous icy conditions as temperatures drop.
Improperly directed sump pump discharge can create icy conditions on sidewalks, driveways, alleys and streets, potentially forming hazards for pedestrians and motorists. Discharge can also flow onto neighboring properties. A frozen discharge line can cause a sump pump to overheat or fail and may result in water backing up into a basement.
Residents can help prevent these problems by following these recommendations:
• Check your discharge line regularly. Monitor your sump pump discharge hose or pipe, especially when temperatures are below freezing, to make sure it is not frozen or obstructed.
• Direct water away from your foundation. Position the discharge so water flows at least 4 to 6 feet away from your home's foundation. Whenever possible, direct water into your yard.
• Use an appropriate discharge extension. Consider placing a larger-diameter PVC pipe over the end of your home's sump pump discharge to carry water away from the foundation and help prevent water from collecting in a low spot.
• Make sure water can drain. Slope the discharge pipe so water flows out rather than remaining in the line, where it can freeze.
• Prevent ice on neighboring properties and public walkways. Do not direct discharge onto sidewalks, driveways, alleys, streets or neighboring properties.
Seasonal Sump Pump Bypass Program
The Regional Water Reclamation Facility offers a Seasonal Sump Pump Bypass Program that allows residents with a permit to discharge sump pump water into the sanitary sewer from October 1 through March 31. The program is available for a monthly fee of $3. Residents interested in obtaining a permit or those with questions about sump pump discharge can contact the Water Reclamation Department at 701.461.7867. For more information, visit FargoND.gov/SumpPump.