Septic tank maintenance is important all year round, but it’s especially important to take care of septic tanks in the winter, when damage and issues are more likely to happen. One of the most common problems for septic tanks in the winter is freezing. Thankfully, there are things property owners can do to prevent their septic systems from freezing. Keep reading to find out about some winter septic tank preparation tips in Prior Lake, MN and how to spot issues to get them fixed as soon as possible.
Causes of septic system freezing
During the winter months, temperatures routinely dip well below freezing. While septic systems are designed to be resilient in all kinds of weather conditions, they are still susceptible to freezing. There are a lot of things that can contribute to septic system freezing. Sometimes, system lines freeze if they are not buried deep enough in the ground. The closer a septic line is to the surface, the more likely it is to freeze in the winter.
Another common cause of septic system freezing is compacted soil that allows freezing temperatures to reach deeper into the ground. Septic line freezing is also more likely to happen when a septic system doesn’t get a lot of use—so, for example, it’s more likely to happen in vacation homes that aren’t occupied full-time.
Signs of freezing
Here are the most common signs of septic system freezing and related issues with winter septic tank safety in Prior Lake MN:
- Problems with toilet performance: When septic lines freeze, it often causes toilets to stop flushing. If temperatures are below freezing and your toilet has stopped working, frozen septic lines might be the culprit.
- Drainage problems: A lack of draining in sinks, tubs and showers is also a common sign of septic line freezing. If your drains have stopped emptying, contact a septic system technician as soon as possible.
- Appliance problems: Performance issues caused by frozen septic lines can also affect appliances. If washing machines and dishwashers aren’t working, it might be because drainage is blocked by a frozen line.
Preparing septic systems for winter
Winter septic tank preparation in Prior Lake, MN can make all the difference when it comes to your system’s performance and condition during the cold season. There are a lot of things that property owners can do to prepare their systems, including insulating pipes that are exposed to the surface and following general septic system use recommendations, but the most important thing for property owners to do is invest in professional septic system maintenance. Professional maintenance keeps systems running effectively and efficiently, and it can make a huge difference when it comes to system performance during the winter.
Professional septic system maintenance
For professional winter septic tank preparation in Prior Lake, MN, reach out to the team at Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services. Since 1956, our family owned and operated company has been providing comprehensive septic services to commercial and residential customers throughout the area. From septic system inspections and maintenance or more extensive repairs and system installation, our team is here to help. Find out more about our services and get started with a consultation and a quote by giving our team a call today.