Septic Tanks And Freezing Temperatures: What Homeowners Should Know

There are few things that the harsh cold of winter deems untouchable, and sadly, your septic tank is not one of them. When temperatures reach the freezing threshold, there is always a risk of a freeze. Once a freeze occurs, water cannot correctly drain from the fixtures in your home, which is not ideal. To protect your home and wallet, learn more about what you can do to boost your protection.

Proactive Practices

Taking steps to avoid a freeze is always the best approach. Consider adding some ground cover to the area about your tank and exterior pipes to provide insulation. Lightweight materials, such as hay or mulch, are excellent. Avoid heavy objects, such as rocks, as the added weight can cause damage. 

Make sure you use hot water throughout the day. For example, do not shower and run the dishwasher simultaneously. Instead, shower in the morning and run the dishwasher later in the day to ensure a periodic flow of hot water through the pipes. 

Structural Changes

If you live in a cold environment and experience freezes regularly, there are some structural changes you should also consider. Have a septic service professional come to your home to verify that the septic line is buried deep enough. The closer the line is to the surface, the greater the risk of freezing.

It would help if you also had the condition of your drain field assessed. If there is a clog or blockage, such as a tree root, it will prevent proper drainage. Inadequate drainage allows wastewater to collect atop the drain field. When the drain field is wet, moisture can quickly freeze, ultimately causing the system to freeze. 

Freeze Reversal

In the event of a freeze, you want to rely on a septic service professional for help. You should not take matters into your own hands, as it can worsen the situation. For example, avoid adding antifreeze to the system, as the chemical can cause damage. You should also avoid running hot water for long periods, as this can overload the septic system. 

Plumbing professionals take a safer approach to reverse the problem, including slowly removing any ice from the line by way of heat tape or another heating device. These professionals also assess the system's condition afterward to ensure no damage was caused by the freeze. 

In the event you have an issue with your septic tank, make sure you contact a professional for septic service on your system. 

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