The Simple Pump is designed to work in freezing temperatures.
One client wrote of pumping at minus 45°F.
There are many operating in Alaska, the coldest states in the lower 48, 9000’ feet up in the Colorado Rockies, and Northern Canada.
There are two ways to freeze-proof the Simple Pump:
- With our weep hole which lowers the standing water level in the pump to below your freeze line.
- With our pitless adaptor
1. Weep Hole
The 1/16″ weep hole, drilled in the top drop pipe, allows the water in the pump head to drain below the frost line. For the weep hole to function, air must be let into the pump head. The CV-1 (check valve with gauge) has a small port that is opened to all air in. Or a regular hose Y adaptor can be used with the check valve on one branch and the other branch letting air in after pumping.
For hard freeze areas – where it can freeze more than four feet down – you will require a custom weep hole to be drilled in your top drop pipe. This will be done at no additional cost.
2. Pitless Adaptor
Or you can install with our pitless adaptor and join the existing underground line. For an existing well, this involves digging down beside the well casing to below your current pitless. Professional installation is required for the pitless installation, adding cost.
Most people go to the above-ground route for their backup pump.
In either case, you should let the handle point up to the sky after use so the stainless steel pump rod is protected inside the pump head.
In some rare circumstances, the pump may need a little lubrication.
There is a .002″ gap between the 3/4″ SS pump rod OD and the 3/4″ ID of the PVC XL rod gland. In a quick, hard freeze the water in this capillary gap can freeze. We have found that a dab of corn oil, applied to the 3/4″ SS pump rod while pumping, can prevent freezing. Other oils should not be used as they do not behave like corn oil when frozen.
WD40, TEFLON sprays, lubricating oils, etc. should not be used as they may not be safe for human consumption or may adversely flavor the water.