Cold Weather Pumping Tips

Frigid winter weather creates challenges when using pumps. Below are four simple tips for cold weather pump operation:

1. Drain the Pump
When pumping has been completed for the day, assure the pump is completely drained. Open the drain valve on the bottom of the volute and disconnect the suction and discharge lines. When the pump is drained completely, close the ball valve and reconnect the lines so the system is ready to start pumping when required.

2. Thaw the Pump System
Before pumping resumes, the pump and system must be thawed. To thaw the pump safely, place a high wattage light bulb under the volute, priming chamber, or near other frozen areas. Or, wrap heat tracing with insulation around affected areas. Do not start the engine if there is frozen liquid anywhere in the pump, lines, or valves as this will damage the pump. Do not use a high-temperature heat source to thaw frozen liquids as this may cause the volute to crack. Do not force any valves when frozen. Breakage will occur.

3. Mind the Battery
Dead batteries are often a problem in cold weather. If possible, attach a trickle charger or battery tendering device. Try to have a spare battery available. Do not use ether to start a diesel engine. Ether can damage the engine and may result in expensive repairs.

4. Mind the Fuel
Diesel fuel can gel in cold weather. A fuel conditioner with anti­-gelling agents should be used. Cold weather diesel fuel blend (D1) is also recommended.

Keep your project pumping using these simple tips and methods to reduce your risk of costly repairs and maintain your timeline. Feel free to contact our experts with any pump-related questions.