If you split your time between a summer and a winter home, it is important to ensure the septic system at your summer home is properly shut down and prepped for the harsh winter months while it will not be in use. A failure to complete this task properly could lead to the freezing of your septic tank or pipes and ultimately lead to some rather unpleasant surprises when the spring thaw comes around. While it is possible to complete much of this process on your own, it can be a bit involved so you may wish to consider hiring a septic tank service to do the job for you.
Make Sure All Pipes Are Free Of Water
Ensuring that all of your pipes are completely drained of water will prevent these pipes from freezing. This can be done by turning off the water at the shutoff valve and then allowing the water remaining in the pipes to escape by opening the faucet. This faucet should remain in the open position throughout the winter months in order to prevent the buildup of pressure and to allow any moisture to drip out of the pipe.
Toilets should also be flushed multiple times in order to ensure all water is out of both the intake and drainage pipes. Septic antifreeze can then be added to the toilets in order to provide additional protection. However, it is vital to ensure you are using an antifreeze product that is intended for this use and not an automotive antifreeze product.
Ensure Your Septic Tank Is Naturally Insulated
Ensuring your septic tank has as much insulation as possible is an important part of preventing a freeze. This can be done by laying down a generous layer of leaves or hay on the ground directly above your septic tank. You should also avoid cutting the grass in this area during the late fall. The slightly longer grass will do a better job at catching any snowfall. Since snow is a natural insulator this can help to provide even more insulation for your septic tank.
Have Your Septic Tank Pumped
A septic tank that is left full during the winter months can freeze and result in the need for rather serious repairs once the spring season arrives. In order to prevent these issues, it is always best to have your septic tank pumped either directly before or directly after you leave the property to enjoy a warmer weather climate for the remainder of the fall and winter seasons. This step should be completed even if your tank is not full. To schedule this service, be sure to reach out to a reputable contractor in your area. They can provide more information regarding septic services.
Share22 September 2021
As you read the articles on this website, you will notice two things. First, they are all about septic services in some ways. Second, some go deep — and others are full of more surface-level facts. This is kind of like your septic system itself! The tank is buried deep, but the drain field is more superficial. You don't have to be an expert on septic systems, but as someone who owns one, you should at least know how to tell when something is wrong with yours so you can call for service. You'll get that level of understanding from this blog — and probably more!
