Winter Septic Tank Care Tips

If you are among the fifth of U.S. households with a septic system installed in your property, then you know that you are responsible for taking care of it. Though you do not have to deal with monthly sewer bills, you do have to make sure your septic system is well cared, maintained, and repaired on time. The wintertime is an especially sensitive time for all plumbing systems, including septic systems. Your friends at Septic Blue are interested in helping you keep your septic system in its best shape. This article will go over some winter septic care tips and our phones are always open if you have any questions, concerns, or an interest in scheduling an appointment with a septic professional.

Inspect and Pump Before Winter

Winter brings harsh cold temperatures. This extreme is going to be tough on your septic system and is also going to make you want to stay indoors. We recommend that you inspect your septic system and pump the tank before winter begins so that you do not have to deal with it during the cold weather. Because the septic system is predominantly underground, you may want to hire a septic tank pumping technician for a professional inspection. Still, there are inspections you can make on your own as well. Take a look at the lid and check for cracks or leaks. Similarly, inspect faucets and exposed pipes around your building.

Allow Water Flow

Standing water is much more likely to freeze than running water. If you expect temperatures to drop below freezing, then remember to allow faucets to drip and flush toilets that are seldom used. Allowing the water to flow will reduce the risk of frozen and burst pipes. Remember that your septic tank has limited capacity, though. So, do not keep the water running too much lest you overwhelm the septic tank and drain field.

Keep Up the Lawn & Spread Mulch

Insulation will keep your septic system’s pipes warm and less likely to freeze. Our septic professionals can help with extensive insulation around the tank and pipes, but here is another trick: keep up the lawn and spread mulch. Healthy and thick grass will help insulate the soil and mulch will be a great added layer of protection.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow

Don’t fall for the misunderstanding that snow will freeze pipes and the septic tank. To the contrary, snow acts as insulation. You do not have to plow the snow off the top of the septic tank. In fact, it is better that you keep the snow there. If you placed a layer of mulch before the snow, then you should be more than okay.

Do Not Park or Drive Over the Septic System

You normally should not park or drive over the septic system anyway, but this rule is particularly important during winter. The weight of the vehicle can misalign or shatter already-burdened pipes. Plus, you do not want the soil to compact as this will interfere in its ability to allow wastewater to percolate through.