Winter is almost here, and with it comes freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on your septic system. Here are some ways that freezing weather affects your septic system in winter and ways you can prevent damage.
Do septic tanks freeze? Yes, freezing temperatures can cause different parts to freeze up. The pipes leading from your home to your septic tank are particularly vulnerable. The pipes leading into the drain field, from the septic system, and the actual drain field pipes are also susceptible to cold temperatures. Do not add antifreeze or salt mixtures to your system. Continuously running water will not fix what is already frozen. Worst of all, never attempt to start a fire above the ground of your pipes.
If you have leaky faucets and toilets that create a small, but constant, flow of water, they can freeze up more easily, and block up pipes. The good news is that if your septic system is used frequently you have a much smaller chance of freezing up. If you have a constant flow of water your system should escape freezing issues. If your system isn’t used for a long time, perhaps because this property sits empty during colder months, there’s an increased chance of frozen pipes in your septic system.