It can be peaceful to watch the snow fall from the comfort of your cozy home, but dipping winter temperatures aren’t always good news for your home itself. The harsh conditions can cause wear and damage that require extra repairs and service. Your home’s pipes and septic system, for example, are often subject to freezing during frigid weather. This freezing can cause these systems to lose their function, and it can even result in issues that persist even after the spring thaw.
Thankfully, there are things that you can do to prevent winter freezing and mitigate the effects when it does happen. Calling ahead for septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN is one of the smartest ways to stay on top of any issues that may make your system susceptible to freezing and other problems this winter.
Why pipes freeze
Although any part of your septic system that is exposed to cold winter air is susceptible to freezing, there are certain parts that are especially vulnerable. Pipes that lead from your home into your tank are particularly likely to freeze. The pipes that are attached to leaky water fixtures can also have issues with freezing because of the constant low flow of water that runs through them.
Even though this freezing might not be a big problem at first, the frozen water can build up and cause an obstruction of the pipe as time goes on. When your system is used frequently and consistently, freezing is less likely. Systems that are often left unused, on the other hand, are more likely to become frozen in different areas. This is a problem particularly during the holiday season, when you may be traveling and therefore not using your system at all.
Reducing the chance of winter freezing
Since freezing is far more likely in pipes with leaky fixtures, it’s important to address leaks as soon as you notice them. Even small drips can add up to a major waste of water over time and increase the chance that your pipe will freeze. To safeguard your pipes against freezing, it’s a good idea to insulate pipes that are exposed to the cold air. You can cut foam to fit around your pipes and wrap it with heavy-duty tape to prevent freezing. You can also use mulch to cover the area above your septic tank or drain field to keep it protected from snow and ice.
It’s also a good idea to routinely shovel snow away from your pipes and make sure that your septic system stays clear of heavy snowfall. Finally, it’s also important to have your septic system taken care of during the winter season. Septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN can increase the function and longevity of your septic system, so it’s important to keep up on regular service.
Schedule septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN
Keeping your septic system maintained this winter can make a big difference when it comes to its effectiveness. You can get reliable septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN from the team at Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services. We can help you with everything from septic pumping to septic design and installation. No matter what your winter needs may be, we would be more than happy to assist you. Simply give us a call today to find out more and to get service from our team of trained and experienced professionals.