When a septic system freezes, it can cause water to back up into the house, and result in a hefty bill when excavating is needed, Litzau said. So far this winter, Litzau Excavating has had to defrost one mound-style septic system that was installed 15 to 20 years ago, and has had to thaw that system multiple times in the past, according to Litzau.
Can a septic system freeze?
The other components of the septic system that can potentially freeze are: the tank, the pipes leading into the drainfield and the drainfield itself. Septic systems that are used frequently are less susceptible to freezing because of the constant flowing water.
Can you put mulch in a frozen septic system?
However, if the system is currently frozen, don’t add mulch now; it will delay thawing in the spring. Use water—the warmer the better—if you’re worried your system is starting to freeze. Spread out your laundry schedule so you run one warm/hot load a day. Use the dishwasher and take hot baths.
Can a plumber fix a frozen septic line?
Before a plumber can address the specific problem, they will need to de-ice your frozen septic line and re-open the system. A professional plumber will conduct an on-site evaluation of your septic tank symptoms.
Can a septic mound freeze?
Your system can freeze when the septic line isn't buried deep enough in the ground to avoid frost, or if compacted soil is covering the septic line. Pipes leading from the house to your septic tank are most likely to freeze. This can be caused by water fixtures in your home like faucets and toilets that have a leak.
How do you keep a mound from freezing?
Prevent freezing in the first place Allowing grass to grow an extra six inches over the entire system (septic tank, connecting pipes and drainfield/mound) in the fall can protect them from frost. Another good insulator is a layer of mulch (straw, leaves, hay, etc.) spread 8 to 12 inches deep over the system.
How do I protect my septic field from freezing?
Don't let your septic system freezePlace a layer of mulch 8 to 12 inches thick over the pipes, tank, and soil treatment system to provide extra insulation. ... Use water—the warmer the better—if you're worried your system is starting to freeze. ... Going away for an extended period?More items...•
Do septic systems freeze in winter?
During winter, your septic tank can freeze if it is not insulated, if your septic line is above ground or not deep enough in the ground, you don't use your septic tank enough, or you have a plumbing leak. Signs that your septic tank is frozen include: Your toilet isn't flushing properly or at all.
How can you tell if your septic is frozen?
It's not something that happens all the time, but there are symptoms of a frozen septic system that should set off the alarm bells. The first symptom is that the drains stop working. Toilets won't flush, sinks, bathtubs, and washing machines won't drain. In extreme cases, you may have sewage backing up into your home.
What happens when a septic tank freezes?
When exposed to persistent freezing temperatures, the water and liquids within these parts freezes. A frozen septic tank can push waste back up into your pipes, causing backups, overflowing sinks and toilets, and a host of other health concerns.
How do you thaw a frozen drain field?
Turn on the water from your utility room and continue pushing the hose into the pipe until you feel some sort of resistance, which means you've located the ice blockage! By spraying hot water directly onto the ice, it should melt relatively quickly (you'll be able to feel the blockage loosening while holding the hose).
Does cold weather affect septic systems?
For one situation, winter's cold temperatures pose a real threat to either residential or commercial septic systems. During this cold season, several issues may arise and can impair the water treatment. From the freezing ground down to the freezing pipes and tanks, all of these can cause major damage to septic systems.
Is it normal for snow to melt over the septic tank?
Should I be worried? Generally speaking – melted snow over your septic tank is probably not a cause for concern. Depending on the depth of your septic tank and if there has been hot water released into it from your home (baths, washing machine, or the dishwasher) – it is most likely just heat.
How do you winterize a septic system?
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.
Why do septic lines not freeze?
A new septic system (tank and drainfield) where the soil is bare commonly has freezing problems the first year. A thick insulating layer over all bare soil generally will prevent a frozen system.
How long does it take ground to freeze?
It does depend somewhat on soil type and soil hydration as well but in general, you need 5 or more days of subfreezing temps before the soil freezes solid. It would be pretty unusual for ground soil to be frozen anywhere in the continental US now (mid November).
Why does my septic system freeze up?
What Causes Septic System Freezing Problems. Freezing temperatures can cause various components of your septic system to freeze up. The most vulnerable areas of your septic system are the pipes leading from the house into the septic tank. Often leaky water fixtures such as faucets and toilets create a constant low flow of water ...
What are the components of a septic system that freeze?
The other components of the septic system that can potentially freeze are: the tank, the pipes leading into the drainfield and the drainfield itself. Septic systems that are used frequently are less susceptible to freezing because of the constant flowing water.
How can mulch protect pipes from freezing?
Preventing Frost. Mulch and snow cover can protect both pipes and the tank from freezing by acting as an insulating layer that prevents frost from penetrating deep into the ground. Snow cover is helpful as long as it is not significantly compacted.
Why is it important to fix a leaky faucet?
It is important is to attend to any leaky faucets, toilets or other drainage issues before the worst of the winter sets in. This will help you avoid costly problems during the winter while also conserving water.
Can snow be compacted?
Snow that has been compacted from vehicle or foot traffic can drive down frost and increase the chances of freezing. Mulch can be added to the area covering the septic tank and drainfield if snow cover is inconsistent – especially if grass or other vegetation cover is not available.
Can you run water to thaw frozen pipes?
Do not continuously run water to try to thaw frozen pipes. By taking the necessary steps to protect your septic system from freezing before the winter sets in you can prevent costly problems. Remember to contact a professional in the event a component of your septic system freezes up to properly address the problem.
Can a septic tank be used as a holding tank?
If you can’t immediately fix the issue, the septic tank can be used as a holding tank until it thaws. This is a costly endeavor and is only a short-term solution, but it is sometimes necessary while waiting from the proper equipment or conditions in which to make repairs.
Will Anti-freeze Damage a Septic System?
Some people resort to pouring anti-freeze down drains. Anti-freeze could contain either ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is a poisonous substance harmful to both humans and animals. On the other hand, propylene glycol is less toxic. Experts recommend using anti-freeze sparingly – avoid it totally, if possible.
How to Unfreeze a Frozen Septic System
To unfreeze a frozen septic system, you will need to thaw the ice that is causing the blockage in the septic system or line.
How to Avoid Septic Tank Problems in Cold Weather
Frozen Septic Tank Components. When frost or snow penetrates deep into the parts of your septic system and freezes it in part or in whole, the metabolism by the anaerobic bacteria in your septic tank is greatly slowed down. Provide your septic system with an insulating cover or blanket to keep it warm during the winter months.
What to do if your septic system freezes?
If you have a pump and hear water running, shut off your pump to prevent costly water leaks. Avoid these common homeowner mistakes: Do not add antifreeze, salt, or a septic system additive into the system. Do not pump sewage onto the ground surface.
What to do if your plumbing system is frozen?
If it has frozen, professionals have access to steamers and high-pressure jetters to try to unfreeze system piping.
How to prevent freezing in home?
Fix leaky plumbing fixtures and appliances in your home before winter hits. This helps prevent freezing problems and helps your system work better year round. Keep vehicles off of the ground above the system to avoid compacting snow and frost.
How to keep pipes from freezing?
Place a 12 inch layer of mulch, straw, leaves, hay or other loose material over pipes, tank and soil treatment system to provide extra insulation (if your system is currently frozen, ignore this step so it does not interfere with thawing in warmer temperatures).
What is the main component of a septic system?
Generally, a septic system has four main components where freezing can occur: The pipe running from the house to the septic tank. The septic tank. The pipe from the septic tank to the soil treatment system (the drainfield) The soil treatment system. Snow acts as an insulator for soil, but driving vehicles or equipment over your septic system ...
Why is it important for a septic system to keep water warm?
During extreme cold, it’s important that your septic system gets frequent use, warmer water temperatures , and greater water use overall.
Can a septic tank be used as a holding tank?
If it is simply too cold, options are limited and you may have to use the tank in the system as a holding tank until the system thaws natural ly. A septic pumper will have to empty out the tanks when they are full. This is a costly option, so it’s essential to prevent your septic system from freezing in the first place!
Why is my septic system frozen?
Every winter, many people have to deal with the frustration of a frozen septic system when the temperature drops well below zero. Lack of snow cover, dry soil conditions and very cold air temperatures during an extended period of time all contribute to the problem, according to Tom Scherer, North Dakota State University Extension Service ...
What is the best way to prevent a septic system from freezing?
A new septic system (tank and drainfield) where the soil is bare commonly has freezing problems the first year. A thick insulating layer over all bare soil generally will prevent a frozen system. Insulating distribution boxes and around exposed inspection pipes, risers and the manhole is especially important.
Why does my septic tank freeze?
Slumping of the pipe due to soil settling or vehicle traffic can form another place for water to collect and freeze. Often, the pipe slumps right next to the septic tank due to soil settling around the tank after construction. The soil treatment system is subject to freezing if the area above it always is wet and soggy.
What is the problem with a septic system?
The pipe from the septic tank to the soil treatment system (often called the drainfield) A common problem area is the point where the pipe from the house to the septic system exits the basement wall.
What happens if a sewer line freezes?
If the main sewer line from the house is on the north or west side, then water fixtures that produce continuous but low flow rates, such as dripping faucets, high-efficiency furnaces and leaking toilets, will freeze where the pipe leaves the basement wall. An ice dam will form until it blocks the pipe.
Where does the wind keep snow from accumulating?
Often, the wind keeps snow from accumulating right next to the north and west sides of the house, allowing frost to penetrate deeper in those areas.
What to do if drainfield is soggy?
If your drainfield is soggy or wet, now is the time to have a septic system installer conduct a professional examination. The solution may be simple and inexpensive or it could be complicated and require extensive renovation of the drainfield.
How to prevent septic system from freezing?
If you plan to be away from your home for several days or weeks, place mulch over your septic field as an insulation. The mulch should be at least 1 foot deep and cover the soil over your tank. Better yet, extend it another 5 feet or so beyond the tank edges.
Can a septic field freeze?
A septic field that is left with only bare dirt and no grass is more likely to freeze than one covered with grass. Therefore, it is important that you grow grass on top of your drain field. During the colder months of the year add mulch on top of the grass. Pay particular attention to applying mulch around pipes, risers, manholes and the distribution boxes of your system.
