How well does the pump work in freezing temperatures?

The Simple Pump is designed to work reliably in freezing temperatures with proper configuration and the freeze protection option.

Freeze Protection Design

The Weep Hole Solution

Simple Pump offers a top drop pipe with an integral weep hole:

• Small hole drilled at calculated depth
• Allows water to drain back after pumping
• Water level drops below frost line
• Prevents freezing in pump head

How It Works

1. After pumping stops, water in upper pipe drains through weep hole
2. Water drains back to level below frost line
3. Pump head and upper drop pipe empty of water
4. No water to freeze, no damage possible

Configuration for Cold Climates

Standard vs. Freeze-Protected

Standard Top Drop Pipe:

• No weep hole
• For warm climates only
• Indoor installations
• Heated pump houses

Top Drop Pipe with Weep Hole:

• Built-in freeze protection
• For outdoor cold climate use
• Weep hole positioned below frost line
• Standard for most northern installations

Frost Line Considerations

Regional Frost Depths

Weep Hole Placement

• Must be below local frost line
• Typically 4-6 feet down
• Custom depths available
• Consult local building codes

Operating in Cold Weather

Before Winter

• Verify weep hole is functioning
• Check that water drains after pumping
• Inspect all above-ground components
• Consider insulation for extreme cold

During Freezing Weather

• Pump normally functions fine
• Water drains between uses
• May need extra strokes to prime after draining
• First strokes bring water back up

Re-Priming After Drainage

When water has drained back:

1. First few strokes pump air
2. Water reaches pump head
3. Normal flow resumes
4. Typically 10-20 strokes to prime

Pitless Adapter Installations

Built-In Freeze Protection

Pitless adapter installations:

• Water exits below frost line
• Underground piping protected
• No above-ground water when idle
• Inherent freeze protection

Advantage

Pitless systems don't require weep hole:

• Water never sits above frost line
• Pressure tank inside heated space
• Year-round operation unchanged

Extreme Cold Considerations

Below -20°F

In extreme cold:

• Metal components contract
• Pumping may feel slightly different
• All functions remain normal
• Allow extra time for priming

Ice and Snow

• Keep pump head clear of ice buildup
• Remove snow from handle area
• Check for ice blocking spout
• Normal winter maintenance

What NOT to Do

Never pour hot water on pump to thaw. Thermal shock can damage components. If pump freezes, allow gradual natural thawing or use gentle heat.

Avoid

• Sealing weep hole (defeats purpose)
• Leaving water sitting in pump head overnight in freezing weather
• Using without weep hole in cold climates (outdoor installation)

Ordering for Cold Climate

When requesting a quote, specify:

• Your location/climate
• Whether outdoor or indoor installation
• Local frost depth if known
• Any extreme cold considerations

We'll configure the appropriate freeze protection.