Whether you’re headed to warmer climes for the winter or you plan to stick it out in Minnesota, taking proper care of your septic tank in Prior Lake, MN is the key to ensuring you don’t get any nasty surprises when spring rolls around. Your septic system can freeze in subzero temperatures, which can cause major problems. Here’s how to get your septic system ready for the cold weather.

If you’re planning to use your septic system during the winter, not all of these steps will apply. If you have questions, be sure to ask your local septic contractor for assistance.

Get an inspection

Autumn is a great time to have your local septic company perform a system inspection. You should be getting annual inspections to ensure that your septic components are working, there are no leaks and everything is operating properly. Your contractor will also be able to tell you whether it’s time to pump your septic tank in Prior Lake, MN or if you can let that go for a bit longer.

Winterize the pipes

If you’re leaving your home for the winter, you’ll need to drain the pipes so they won’t freeze and crack. Shut off the water main and open all faucets to let them drain. Flush the toilets a few times until the water no longer fills the tank and bowl. Drain all appliances, including your water heater. Completely empty your septic system’s pressure tank. Once your lines have been completely drained, add septic-safe antifreeze according to the manufacturer’s directions. Finally, make sure your furnace (if it will be left on for the winter) isn’t dripping water into your pipes.

Pump the tank

If your septic contractor suggests pumping the tank before you take off for the winter, be sure to do so. When the cold weather sets in, any sewage in your tank can freeze. Even when the temperatures start to warm up again, cold effluent will leave your tank for the drain field, making it more difficult for the tank and soil to treat it properly.

Insulate the drain field

Keeping your septic system in good shape means you get to cross mowing off your to-do list. Starting in September, you can go ahead and let the grass grow. This helps insulate your drain field and pipes so they won’t freeze. If you’ve been mowing faithfully, you can spread leaves over the drain field or buy special insulated blankets for this purpose.

Keep traffic off the drain field

All traffic needs to stay off the drain field. Disturbing the soil can push the frost deeper into the ground, causing your pipes and tank to freeze. Don’t allow anyone to drive or walk over the drain field, unless you’re mowing the grass. Don’t plow snow, either—let it sit until it melts naturally.

Following these steps for proper care and feeding of your septic tank in Prior Lake, MN will help keep your system safe. For help winterizing your septic system, call the team at Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services today.