Your septic tank and system are designed to function well under normal conditions, but extreme winter weather may create problems. Learn about four septic issues commonly encountered in winter—and how to mitigate problems—in the guide below.

Winter Septic Tank Issues

1. Frozen Components

If a septic tank and system components freeze when temperatures drop or frost and snow get inside them, the microbial action of the bacteria slows. To ensure unhampered operation, let the grass grow a little longer in the fall, rake leaves over the septic tank area or get an insulating cover for exposed tanks and pipes, and use your system daily. However, don’t add antifreeze to a septic tank or allow your taps to run continuously as either may damage your system. Fix dripping faucets and other leaky fixtures.

2. Compacted Snow

Don’t drive over your drain field. Compacted snow will freeze the soil and lower temperatures inside your septic tank. If your tank can’t efficiently expel water because your drain field is frozen, it may overflow, and sewage may back up.

3. Frozen Pipes

Pipes frozen with wastewater and sewage lead to slow drains and toilets. Also, if pipes break, you’ll need emergency repairs. To minimize problems, have your septic system inspected and pumped by a qualified septic service team before winter sets in.

4. Extra Use

Extra guests who stay over the holidays can put stress on your system by generating more wastewater and sewage. The extra cooking, cleaning, and laundry you do when you entertain stresses the system, too. Over the holidays, inform your guests about what should and should not be flushed down toilets or into drains, and stagger water usage. Don’t do all household tasks, such as laundry and dishwashing, at the same time. 

If you need septic tank pumping or service in Wisconsin Rapids or the surrounding communities of Nekoosa, Stevens Point, Plover, and Rome, choose Garrison Septic Service Inc.  Since 1939, this full-service company has installed and maintained septic systems. You can count on them to winterize your tank and perform any required repairs. Call (715) 325-7282 for help, or visit them online to view a full list of available services.