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Don't head into winter with a full tank
If your drains are slow, you smell sewage, or you can't remember the last pumping, now is the time to act. A septic problem in January is a septic problem with frozen ground, snow on the yard and fewer good options. Booking before the freeze is the simple way to avoid that.
The National Environmental Health Association puts it plainly: a well-maintained septic system is better able to withstand the stresses of winter weather. (source) PA DEP's general guidance is to have a tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on tank and household size. (source) The EPA gives the same range and recommends an inspection by a qualified professional every three years. (source)
What can go wrong in the cold
Septic systems can freeze. The EPA tells homeowners to prevent freezing by inspecting and insulating vulnerable parts, such as the inspection pipe and the soil treatment area. (source) NEHA warns that compacted snow insulates less, and that cold PVC pipes and plastic risers may crack or break. (source)
Once a system freezes, the fixes get harder. The University of Minnesota's onsite sewage program notes that if the soil treatment area is full of ice, it cannot accept liquid until it thaws in spring. (source) Minnesota's pollution control agency says that when a frozen system can't be corrected, the only option may be using the tank as a holding tank, emptied as it fills, until the system thaws. (source) That can mean repeat service calls in the middle of winter.
Before the freeze: a short checklist
- Get pumped if you're due or overdue. Start the season with an empty, checked tank. (source)
- Fix leaks. NEHA lists repairing leaks among the steps to take before winter weather. (source)
- Insulate exposed parts. NEHA suggests a layer of mulch, 8 to 12 inches of hay, straw or other loose material, over the pipes, tank and drain field for systems prone to freezing. (source)
- Leave the snow alone. Avoid compacting or removing snow over the system. (source)
- Keep vehicles off. Park cars and heavy vehicles away from the tank and drainfield. (source)
If it freezes anyway
Call a septic professional. NEHA advises against adding antifreeze, salt or additives, running hot water continuously, or trying to pump the sewage yourself. (source) If your system has a pump and you hear water constantly running in the pump tank, the University of Minnesota program says to shut off the pump and call a professional. (source)
Book now, before the ground freezes
Fieldstone Septic connects homeowners in the Hanover, York, Gettysburg and Westminster areas with a local septic company. Fieldstone doesn't pump tanks itself. Request a free quote or call (717) 316-0315, and a local septic company can reach out with a price and a date. If your township has a pumping deadline, your township notice controls your due date; see our township guides.
Sources
- US EPA SepticSmart: Top 10 Ways to Be a Good Septic Owner
- NEHA: Guidance for Septic Systems Before, During, and After Winter Weather
- University of Minnesota Onsite Sewage Treatment Program: Seasonal care
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: Don't let your septic system freeze
- PA DEP on-lot maintenance guidance