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Expert Q Ren Molnar Q&A Archive
Top > Plumbing > Sump

Question:

I have a problem with a sump-pump drain which freezes each winter but only since I have installed an in-line gate valve to prevent siphoning back into the pit. Would it be feasible to put a vent of some sort into the line after the check valve so as to break the vacuum created by the valve? That would at least release the water at the outer end where I would assume the freezing occurs.

Answer:

I've never tried that but just in case things didn't work, I'd want to put that vent outside the house or lead a hose from the top of it through a window to the outside and make sure it has a good slope.

In the interests of retaining credibility and in fairness to all, I do not recommend people or companies for various projects. Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com.

Answered By: Ren Molnar

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