How do you stop a sump pump discharge pipe from freezing?

To help ensure that a sump pump discharge pipe doesn't freeze, bury the pipe 5 inches below the frost line or extend the pipe, if it's above the ground, away from the foundation at least 10 feet. Another anti-freezing option is to insulate the discharge pipe and the intake section.

A discharge line needs to be properly graded and flowing away from the building. Gravity helps keep the water moving, and if there isn't enough slope, water may drip back into the pipe and freeze. If the pipe does freeze, use a portable heater - not a blow torch - to try thawing it out.