Winnipeg winters are no joke. We’re talking deep freezes, snowbanks taller than your car, and temperatures that make your nose hairs freeze. So, if you’ve got a sump pump in your basement, you might be wondering: how often should a sump pump run in the winter?

The short answer? It depends — but if it’s running often in the dead of winter, it might be a sign that something’s off.

Should a Sump Pump Run in the Winter at All?

In many homes, sump pumps slow down or even stop completely during the winter months. That’s because the ground is frozen solid, and there’s typically less water seeping into your foundation, at least until the big spring melt hits.

But there are exceptions. If your sump pump is running more than once a day in January or February, it’s worth taking a closer look.

When Winter Sump Pump Activity Is Normal

Here are a few situations where it’s totally normal for a sump pump to run in the winter:

Thawing spells: A mid-winter warm-up or freeze-thaw cycle can cause snow and ice to melt and drain into your weeping tile system.
Leaky water lines: If a water line or appliance is dripping in your basement, your sump pit might collect that water and trigger the pump.
High groundwater levels: Some homes sit on water tables that don’t freeze deep enough, meaning the pump may need to work all year.

When It’s Not Normal

If your sump pump is running constantly in the winter — or you’re hearing it kick in every few minutes — that’s usually a red flag. You could be dealing with:

A frozen or partially frozen discharge line (which causes water to back up)
A malfunctioning check valve or float switch
Excessive condensation or foundation leaks
A system that’s overworking due to improper drainage design

Bottom line: a sump pump shouldn’t be working overtime when the ground outside is frozen. If it is, it’s time to dig a little deeper (no pun intended).

Tips to Keep Your Sump Pump Healthy in Winter

Make sure your discharge line is properly insulated or buried below the frost line.
Clear snow and ice away from the discharge area outside.
Test your sump pump before winter hits — pour water into the pit and make sure it kicks on properly.
Install a battery backup system in case of a power outage.
Have a professional inspect your sump pump if it’s running unusually often.

Concerned About Your Sump Pump? Call Shorty’s.

At Shorty’s Plumbing & Heating Inc., we’ve helped Winnipeg homeowners protect their basements from water damage for over 40 years. If your sump pump is acting up this winter — or you just want peace of mind — we can inspect, repair, or upgrade your system with zero hassle.

Don’t wait for spring flooding to find out your sump pump wasn’t ready.