As winter approaches, you should be sure that your septic tank is ready for the seasonal changes. If the septic system freezes, it could stop working, which would be unpleasant during the holidays. Here are a few ways to prevent septic issues this winter.

How to Prepare Your Septic Tank for Winter

1. Keep Your Drainage Field Clear

Your drain field is essential for absorbing the liquid waste that gets filtered out through your septic tank system. However, if you cover the area with garden furniture or visitors’ cars, the soil can become compacted, which could stop it from functioning. For optimal care, you should also invest in a drain field cover or spread a layer of mulch or straw over it to prevent it from freezing.

2. Don’t Flush Bulky Items

The faster your septic tank fills up, the more frequently you’ll need to empty it. That can prove challenging if the ground is frozen, which makes it harder for septic companies to access your tank to empty it. Avoid flushing bulky objects as they may take up more space if they freeze, and you’ll find you have to call out a specialist team to empty the tank multiple times throughout the season.

3. Keep Water Away From Your Septic System

The tank is designed to cope with the set amount of water generated by your home. If more water enters the system — through flooding or excessive water use — your drainage field could overflow, which would cause your home plumbing to back-up. If you’re expecting guests over the holiday season, you should empty your tank before they arrive.

4. Inspect Your Septic Tank Lid

Keep an eye on the condition of your tank lid. If it has become damaged over the year, you can replace it before the winter. Cold weather brings snow and fallen leaves, which could conceal a broken lid from guests or pets and pose a danger if they unknowingly walk over it.

For regular maintenance or repairs on your septic tank, contact P & H Septic Service in Uncasville, CT. This team of certified professionals provides specialized septic services with the highest level of customer care. Servicing both residential and commercial customers, they perform septic system installation, maintenance, and grease trap pumping. Call (860) 848-8507 to schedule a consultation or go online to find out more about their services.