How do you cover a sump pump pipe?

What is a sump pump?

A sump pump is a pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin, usually found in the basement of homes. The sump basin collects water from the perimeter drains around the foundation of the home and from under the basement floor. The water collects in the sump basin and the sump pump pumps it out of the basement, typically to the outside of the home. This helps prevent flooding and water damage in the basement.

Sump pumps typically have a pipe that extends from the pump up and out of the basement to discharge the water outside. This discharge pipe needs to be properly installed and protected to allow the sump pump system to work effectively. Improperly covering or insulating the discharge pipe can lead to clogs from freezing in winter and block the water from being pumped out of the basement.

Why should you cover the sump pump discharge pipe?

There are several important reasons why the sump pump discharge pipe should be properly covered and insulated:

Prevent freezing – One of the main reasons to cover and insulate the pipe is to prevent water inside the pipe from freezing in cold weather. If the water freezes it can completely block water from being pumped out of the basement. The ice blockage can also put strain on the pump and cause damage.
Hide unsightly piping – Exposed discharge piping running up the side of a house or across the yard can be an eyesore. Properly covering and concealing the pipe improves the aesthetics.
Protect from damage – An exposed pipe is susceptible to damage from lawn mowers, string trimmers, pets, kids playing, and other hazards. Encasing the pipe offers protection.

Improve pump efficiency – Covering helps insulate the discharged water, keeping it from losing heat to the frigid outdoor temperatures. This allows the pump to work more efficiently.
Reduce noise – Running water through an uncovered pipe can generate a lot of noise. Covering helps muffle the sound.
Prevent clogs – Debris, dirt, and other material can clog an open pipe much easier than a covered one.

So in summary, properly covering and insulating a sump pump discharge line helps protect it from freezing, damage, and clogging while also improving aesthetics, efficiency, and noise levels. This is important for a properly functioning sump pump system.

How to Cover and Insulate the Pipe

When installing or modifying the discharge pipe for a sump pump, there are several options for encasing and insulating the piping:

PVC Pipe & Insulation

A PVC pipe slightly larger than the discharge pipe can be used as an outer casing. The discharge pipe fits inside the PVC pipe leaving a small gap for insulation to be packed around it. Fiberglass insulation, foam tubing, or foam spray insulation can be inserted in the gap to insulate the discharge pipe from frigid temperatures. The insulation needs to be the full length of the pipe, all the way down to the exit point from the foundation. The PVC casing also protects the pipe from damage.

Slit PVC Pipe

Split PVC tubing that snaps or screws together allows easy installation over an existing discharge line. The tubing splits lengthwise so it can be installed without having to thread the end of the pipe through it. Fiberglass insulation is typically inserted into the split PVC tubing during installation. Hose clamps or screws hold the two halves together.

Insulated Flexible Tubing

Flexible plastic tubing with a built-in insulation layer is available specifically for sump pump discharge lines. The flexible, lightweight tubing slides easily over the discharge piping. Some types have a corrugated design which allows them to bend and conform to corners and turns in the piping run. The smooth inner wall helps prevent clogs and buildup.

Condensate Drain Pipe

Some homeowners repurpose plastic condensate drain pipe from HVAC systems. This pipe has channels on the inside to handle water drainage and comes with insulation around the outside. The molded insulation makes it easy to seal joints and prevent gaps. Fiberglass insulation may be added for extremely cold climates.

Rigid Foam Insulation

For below ground sections of the discharge line, rigid foam insulation panels made for buried water pipes can encapsulate the piping before burying. The panels have channels for the pipe and locking points to secure multiple panels together into a protective shell. Foam spray adds an additional layer of insulation.

How to Install Covers and Insulation

Here are some step-by-step tips for installing pipe covers and insulation on a sump pump discharge line:

PVC Casing Method

Select PVC pipe at least one size larger than the discharge pipe. Cut it to the desired length.

Split the PVC lengthwise using a power saw. You can also use slit PVC tubing.
Open up the slit in the PVC and fit it over the discharge pipe. Align it properly and clamp it where needed.
Seal the seam and joints in the PVC with waterproof silicone/PVC cement.

Insert fiberglass insulation, foam tubing, or other insulating material in the gap between the PVC and discharge pipe.
Use spray foam or silicone to seal the ends around the pipe.

Insulated Tubing Method

Measure the length of discharge pipe that needs covering.

Cut insulated tubing at least 1 foot longer than this measurement.
Split the tubing lengthwise and open it up if needed to fit over the pipe.
Slide tubing over discharge pipe, leaving extra material at each end.

Seal tubing ends with rubber bands, hose clamps, or waterproof tape.
For corners or turns, gently bend the flexible tubing.

Condensate Pipe Method

Measure length of pipe run and cut condensate pipe to fit.

Dry fit pieces over the discharge pipe.
Use rubber bands or clamps to hold in place.
Apply PVC cement at the joints to permanently connect.

Use small foam sealant strips or silicone to fill any gaps.
Wrap additional fiberglass insulation around the pipe if needed.

Outdoor Discharge Pipe Options

For the section of the sump pump discharge line that runs outside the home there are several encasing options:

PVC Pipe

PVC pipe is the most common material used to cover and protect the outdoor discharge line. Use schedule 40 or thicker for durability. Paint it to match the house trim for a nicer appearance. Cap off the ends and use hangers along the run to support the pipe.

Vinyl Tubing

Flexible vinyl tubing can also work for an exterior discharge pipe covering. Look for tubing designed for outdoor use that can withstand UV rays and extreme temperatures. Fasten the tubing with pipe hangers.

Underground Piping

For pumps that discharge underground to a lawn or public storm drain system, the piping should be buried below the frost line. Run solid PVC pipe and insulate with foam panels made for underground service.

Heat Tape

In extremely cold climates, running electrical heat tape along the exterior discharge piping can add extra freeze protection. Attach it directly to the pipe and cover with insulation.

Drain Hose

Standard plastic landscaping drain hose with ribbing can be used on top of the ground for sections of the exterior discharge line. Make sure to slope it downward and secure with stakes.

Tips for Properly Covering the Discharge Pipe

Here are some additional tips for properly covering and insulating a sump pump discharge line:

Seal all seams and connections – Use PVC cement, silicone caulk, rubber gaskets, or waterproof tape at all joints and connections.
Support the pipe – Use metal or plastic pipe hangers along the run to prevent sagging and maintain pitch.
Maintain downward slope – Pitch any above ground piping downward away from the home to allow drainage.

Extend discharge away from foundation – Run the pipe at least 5-10 feet away from the home’s foundation before turning downward.
Prevent clogs – Use cleanouts at turns to allow access for cleaning out blockages.
Check local codes – Follow any applicable plumbing and building codes for your area.

Hire a professional – Have a qualified plumber handle any complex discharge line insulation and covering.

Properly insulating and protecting the sump pump discharge line improves the system’s performance and prevents problems. Follow local codes and install materials designed to withstand the typical weather conditions in your region.

Conclusion

Covering and insulating a sump pump discharge pipe is an important installation requirement. Enclosing the discharge pipe protects it from freezing, damage, and clogs. Various materials can be used for encasing and insulating the line including PVC, foam tubing, condensate drainage pipe, and flexible tubing specifically made for sump pump lines. Proper installation requires securing the insulation tightly to the discharge pipe, sealing seams and connections, supporting the run, and maintaining pitch. Following basic guidelines and codes for enclosing the pipe will help ensure the sump pump can work year-round to effectively remove water from the home’s basement or foundation. Considering the importance of keeping a home’s basement dry, taking the time to properly cover a sump pump discharge line is a worthwhile endeavor.