While the winter months are typically slow for septic system installations and residential pumping due to the limitation of digging in frozen ground, the amount of emergency work increases due to backups or frozen lines. Like all emergencies, these tend to happen during the holidays or as luck will have it, when weather is at its worst. Here at Custom Septic, we’ve learned the best way to prevent a problem is to plan ahead. Below, are some tips to help you with your septic system through the winter months in Minnesota.
Frozen Septic Lines – Tips And Solutions
Freezing can occur if there is slow-running water from fixtures, water softeners or the emptying of furnace condensation into the system. This slow-running water can quickly cause ice to accumulate in the drain lines, eventually causing a complete blockage from slow ice formation. On the flip side, if you live in the home full time, regular household use, frequent warm water use, soaps and detergents can raise the level of the wastewater’s freezing point and help maintain biological activity in your septic tank to prevent freezing.
Insulation Of Septic Pipes
If you’re installing a new system, install insulated sewage piping that comes encased in an insulating urethane foam sandwiched between a polyethene exterior sleeve. Installation is simple and long lasting. There are other affordable options, and these need to be installed from the start.
Protecting The Drain Field
Protect your drain field and prevent it from freezing by keeping the grass long on top of your septic system and drain field. Stop mowing the grass in this area in October. Longer grass will help retain winter snow, providing an insulated layer above your septic system. You can also spread an insulating layer of leaves or straw above the area to help it retain heat and prevent freezing.
Shutting Of The Water Supply
If your home is going to be closed up over the winter months, be sure to shut off the water supply to the house and drain the water line completely. Open all the taps and leave them open and drain the septic system’s pressure tank completely. It is also recommended that the septic tank be pumped out beforehand.
At Custom Septic, we are here to help you should your septic system ever freeze. We encourage you to take the steps necessary to ensure that your system doesn’t freeze when the tough Minnesota cold temperatures hit the region. To learn more about how to prevent freezing, give our septic system professionals a call today at (763) 218-4769 or email brad@customseptic.com.
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