During the winter, you want to focus on family, friends, and fun—not on clogged toilets, overflowing sinks, and issues with shower basin drainage. However, if you have problems with your septic system, you might experience all of these problems and potential septic failure. Here are three winter septic system issues to watch out for, and what kind of septic tank care you can perform to prevent issues as the holidays approach.

Which Septic Issues Can Occur During Winter?

1. Component Failure

When plumbing parts freeze, drainage doesn’t occur properly, which can complicate your septic functions. You may experience poor drainage from your home, or overflowing lines when you use your washing machine or toilets. If you have septic system lines that tend to freeze, consult with a septic tank care professional to have them insulated and thawed. 

2. Overworked System

During the holidays, many people have visitors from out of town. Unfortunately, since septic systems are sized for a certain number of people, having guests stay with you, shower, flush toilets, and use extra dishes can cause problems for your plumbing. Eventually, you may be left with a full septic system.

As a general septic tank care rule, have your septic system checked before you have people stay with you and try to stagger showering and dish-washing sessions to give your system the chance to drain correctly. 

3. Compacted Soil 

Heavy snowfall can compact the soil in your leach field, while also filling the area with extra moisture by way of melted snow. If possible, try to keep the space above your drain field as clear as possible, and never park heavy machinery or cars over the area to prevent additional compaction. 

Whether you have been struggling with your septic system or you are nervous about what winter might bring, turn to Wright's Septic Service in Tomah, WI, for more information. With a focus on helping their clients protect their homes and their lifestyle, this trusted septic tank care company offers everything from tank pumping and ongoing maintenance to inspections and drain cleaning. To find out more about how they can help, call (608) 372-3615 today.