Even if you’ve scheduled septic tank pumping ahead of winter, it’s not unusual for your on-site waste disposal to run into trouble. Harsh weather conditions and low temperatures can take their toll on the system. Anticipate such issues and take steps to prevent them before it’s too late.  

3 Septic System Problems to Watch Out For

1. Frozen Septic Tank & Pipes

When temperatures plummet, septic tanks and components may freeze. To keep your system safe, add a layer of mulch—about eight to 12 inches thick—over the septic tank and drain field. You can use hay, leaves, and other loose material if your septic system doesn’t have adequate vegetative cover. An insulated blanket or cover is another alternative.

If you have drain pipes in exposed areas, wrap insulation foam or sleeves around them. Use tape or wire to secure them in place. It also helps to use warm water more often to temper the cold in your septic system.  

2. Compacted Soil

Low temperatures during the winter make the soil denser, leading to compaction around your septic tank. Compacted soil causes frost to go deeper into the ground, providing less insulation for your tank and drain field. Before you know it, you have a frozen septic tank and a compacted soil treatment system. Avoid such problems in winter by keeping traffic away from these areas.

3. Slow Drains or Sudden Clogging

Colder temperatures in the yard make septic tank pumping difficult during wintertime. That’s why it’s best to schedule a visit before it starts snowing. This maintenance task will help prevent clogs and slow-moving drains in the cold season.

Sometimes, blockages in the pipes lead to wastewater buildup, which can freeze at low temperatures. Leaky fixtures—even if they only trickle—will overload your septic tank faster than usual, possibly resulting in backups and slow drains. Along with septic tank pumping, have your entire plumbing system checked for issues that may snowball.   

At the first signs of trouble with your septic tank this winter, turn to the professionals at A-1 Septic Tank & Drain Service in Coldwater. Serving the North Mississippi area, the family-owned company provides top-notch solutions, including septic tank pumping, cleaning, and inspections, no matter the season. Call (662) 233-4565 to request a free estimate, or check out their offerings on their website.