In the freezing cold winters of Minnesota, septic systems are constantly at risk of freezing. Frozen pipes, tanks or drain fields can be a huge headache for homeowners and cause damage to your property and septic system if not addressed properly.
The most common areas of the septic system to freeze are the pipes that lead from your house to the septic tank. Sometimes the pipes are placed too shallow or the weather is just cold enough to cause freezing issues within the system. In order to combat frozen septic lines in winter, consider adding these preventative measures to your next round of septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN:
- Utilize natural insulators: Mulch, leaves and soil can act as natural insulators for your septic pipes. You should add an 8 to 12 inch-layer of mulch to the top of your septic lines and tank to allow for proper protection against the elements. Snow can also be a good insulator during the wintertime, but it should not be compacted. Avoid walking or riding vehicles on top of the snow covering your septic line, tank and drain field to help it maintain its insulating properties.
- Install pipe insulation: You may also choose to install insulation directly on top of your septic pipes and tank to add an extra layer of protection. There are numerous types of insulation available for septic systems, including replacement pipes with insulation built in and foam panels that are placed directly atop the tank and pipes.
- Fix leaking fixtures: In-home fixtures like faucets and toilets that leak can be problematic for your septic system in winter. They create a constant stream of water that freezes quickly, causing a blockage of ice in your pipes that must be thawed out. Fixing these leaky fixtures will prevent ice blockages from forming.
- Plan accordingly if you leave: If you are a snowbird or are planning to be away while the temperatures drop below zero, plan ahead of time to have someone visit your home to run water, or have your system pumped before you go. This way, you avoid returning home to a frozen headache.
The best time to add these preventative measures to your septic system is during the summer, because there is easier access to your tank and pipes. Think ahead for this year and make a plan to add these insulators to your system.
If your system freezes before you can add insulation, call a professional for septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN; they may have to use thaw blankets or hot water jetting to fix the problem.
Is your septic system frozen and in need of thawing? For the best septic maintenance in Prior Lake, MN, give Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services a call! Our family-owned business has provided expert septic system services for over 60 years. Let us handle it all—we do system and tank repairs, cleaning, pumping and maintenance, as well as septic system inspections. We are available 24/7 for your convenience and satisfaction. Call today!