Winter Septic Tank Problems and How to Avoid Them

Your septic tank can be under extreme stress during the winter months. Your septic tank could be damaged by holiday guests, snow, and other cold weather. You need to be aware of the possible problems to avoid such expensive damage. These are some of the most common issues that your septic tank may experience during winter and how you can prevent them.

1. Frozen Tank Components

The components and the entire system might become frozen if snow or frost get into your septic tank. This can cause the anaerobic bacteria in your septic system to slow down. The waste won’t be broken down.

This problem can be avoided easily. To keep your tank warm during the winter months, you can cover it with an insulating blanket or cover. You should also ensure that vegetation is not in direct contact with the septic tank. To reduce the chance of freezing, make sure you run your water daily and flush the septic system frequently.

2. Compacted Soil and Snow

Snow can be compacted if it is driven over with a snowplow or your vehicle. The cold weather and the dense soil above the septic tank will cause it to become compacted. This causes your septic system to freeze, making it less efficient to insulate.

Any wastewater that is not properly drained and filtered will be blocked if the soil in the drain field has become compacted. These problems can be avoided by aerating the soil before the winter months. To prevent soil from compacting, it is important not to drive over the soil at the top of your septic tank.

3. Pipes that are not properly functioning

Poor drainage can be caused by leaks or clogs in your pipes. The septic system can be further damaged by freezing due to leakages that occur during winter months. Clogs can lead to the accumulation of wastewater and cause the wastewater to freeze. Your system will become clogged, and your drinking water may be contaminated.

These problems can be avoided in several ways. You can start by fixing any leaks before the winter months arrive. You should also fix any leaks or clogs as soon as you notice them. This will prevent these problems from getting worse.

4. Improper Use

Your system will likely be overwhelmed if there are too many loads of laundry or too many showers. Overworked systems can also be caused by the preparation of elaborate meals for holidays. You can avoid these problems by staggered laundry and shower days. You should not use too much water at once as this could cause damage to your septic system. Avoid preparing holiday food all at once. Instead, spread it out over several days.

5. It’s difficult to pump your tank

You will have difficulty pumping your septic tank during the winter months. The frozen ground and snow on your lawn will make it difficult to reach your septic tank. Avoid any winter maintenance. Make sure to pump your septic tank when it gets full, especially before ground freezes.

Bell Excavating Septic System Maintenance

Do you need septic tank maintenance? This is the right place. Bell Excavating can help commercial and residential customers with their septic tank maintenance. We are experts in septic tank maintenance and can help you.

We don’t want to see you suffer from any of these septic tank problems, especially in the winter months. If you have any concerns about your septic tank, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will help you keep your septic tank in top condition during the colder months. For the best septic tank maintenance, call us today.