How to Winterize Your Septic System

Winter has arrived, with shorter nights and the holidays approaching. You want to make sure that your septic system is fully winterized and protected against freezing throughout the season. Here are some tips to prep your system for winter.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Septic System for Winter

1. Mulch Over the Drain Field

If you don’t already have significant snow accumulation covering the drain field, spread an 8-12 inch layer of thick mulch over the tank area, drain field, and pipes. Use hay, straw, or other organic matter. Mulch keeps the system components from freezing, but do not add mulch over a frozen system. Also, don’t clear any fallen snow away. Snow will also insulate the system, as long as it does not become compacted by vehicles, foot, or animal traffic.

2. Spread Out Hot Water Use

When the temperatures threaten to drop, spread out hot water use over the week. Using warm or hot water every day will help keep the system from freezing. Rather than dripping taps, which can overload the septic system, do laundry, run the dishwasher, and take hot showers or baths daily.

3. Insulate Pipes

To protect your system from extreme weather, insulate the pipes leading to and from the tank, as well as the plumbing inside the house. You may want to add foam panels over the tank area as well. Pipes can be insulated with foam sleeves available at hardware stores, heat tape, or even electric warmers.

4. Fix Leaks

Fix leaking taps and pipes immediately, as these are vulnerable areas that can easily freeze, crack, or burst. Fixing leaks also lowers water bills and prevents the waste of tens of gallons of water a week going into the septic tank.

5. Pump the Tank

If you have slow drains or slow-flushing toilets, this may be a signal that the tank is getting full. Smelly pipes and drains may also indicate a tank that’s near capacity. Have the tank pumped before holiday guests put increased stress on the system. If you leave home for more than a few weeks during winter, it’s a good idea to have the tank pumped before you go to avoid the sewage freezing in the tank. A frozen tank can lead to problems in the spring, such as a disruption in the proper balance of bacteria.

Do you need help winterizing a septic system? All Clear Pumping & Sewer, in Jefferson City, MO, can inspect, repair, and pump out your system, making sure it’s ready to withstand winter temperatures. They can deal with clogged drains and plumbing repairs as well. Call (573) 443-2660 for an estimate or visit their website to see a full list of residential services.