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Combine an ice-covered ground with frigid cold temperatures, and the environment becomes ripe for freezing your home’s septic system. From frozen pipes to plumbing leaks that can trap frozen water in the tank, inconvenient and costly backups are the likely outcomes. The encouraging news is there are ways to keep your septic system from shutting down during the winter season. Here are several to keep in mind. 

4 Tips for Preventing Frozen Septic Systems

1. Add Insulation

Before the winter weather arrives, place at least eight to 12 inches of mulch on top of the septic system’s tank, pipes, and soil treatment location. This protective layer will provide a barrier if the ground freezes. When spreading the mulch, straw, or hay, keep it loose so that there are enough air pockets to create an insulated safeguard. 

2. Closely Monitor Water Usage

septic systemsRunning water continuously can overwhelm your septic system and may cause it to freeze. Stick to using warm water intermittently each day and schedule household chores such as laundry accordingly. If you’re planning to be on vacation for several weeks, ask a trusted relative or friend to stop by and use warm water. All of these tasks will help prevent your septic system from becoming dormant, which can lead to frozen pipes. 

3. Repair Plumbing Leaks

Now is the time to have faucet, toilet, or sink plumbing leaks fixed. If the drips or streams of water are not repaired, they will travel into your home’s septic system and cause layers of ice to form. This accumulation may shut down the system and cause a backup. 

4. Keep Obstructions Away

Be sure all vehicles are kept off and away from the drainfield. Doing so will minimize sinking or shifting drainage pipes, which can be damaged during a hard winter freeze. Consider installing a septic system-friendly enclosure to keep people and pets from walking over and around the area.

 

By following a few proactive steps, you can keep your septic system working all winter long. For more than 60 years, Notestone County Sanitary Service in Chillicothe, OH, has provided Ross County homeowners with top-quality septic system cleaning and maintenance services. From sewer line video inspection to pinpoint clog issues to thorough sewer and drain cleaning, count on the licensed company to get the job done right the first time. Make sure your septic system is ready for winter by calling (740) 772-1189 to schedule an inspection. Visit the website for the full lineup of services.

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