How Does Winter Affect My Septic System?

How does winter affect your septic system? We get asked this a lot, especially because we live in New England, which typically has long and cold winters. Luckily, septic tanks are built to withstand the cold. Most importantly, they’re far enough below ground that the temperature generally does not change much. However, some septic components must be above ground, or shallow enough that they may be affected by abnormal use or extreme weather.

With that said, we thought we’d discuss how winter affects your septic system and ways you can minimize the season’s negative impact on your system.

Septic Breakdown Slows in Winter

Believe it or not, your septic tank “digests” food much in the way that your digestive system does. No, it doesn’t have stomach acid, but it uses a combination of bacteria to break down the waste just like we do. That’s why it’s important not to flush harsh chemicals—the introduction of those chemicals into your tank can kill off that beneficial bacterium.

Because that bacterium is living, cold temperatures can slow down its ability to function. Just like how we all get a little slower in the winter, so do the bacteria. You’ll find that your septic waste isn’t broken down nearly as fast, so you should take care in overfilling your tank in the colder months.

Your Septic Pipes Could Freeze in the Winter Cold

If properly insulated, your tank should be far enough underground that the contents will never freeze. However, the pipe leading to your interior plumbing is suspectable to freezing. We recommend wrapping this plumbing in insulation and regularly using your plumbing—the regular flow of water will keep your system from icing up.

Snowfall Can Compact Your Soil

Snow is surprisingly heavy, especially if you have a few feet of it sitting in your yard. While we clear snow from our driveway, we more than likely leave our backyards untouched. However, if you have a septic tank, it’s important to keep that area free of snow because the weight of snow can compact the soil.

What’s wrong with compacted soil? Your septic system relies on the insulating quality of air to stay above freezing. Loose soil is full of these insulating air pockets—compacted soil is not. We recommend clearing snow away from your tank area and even aerating that soil in the fall before the ground freezes.

Your System Could Get Overworked

The holidays can mean being the host of family and friends. This can be a great time, but many of those guests might not understand the rules of septic tank use. With that in mind, share with them the guidelines—what not to flush, etc.

Furthermore, a house full of people can overwork your system. Ensure that people stagger their showers and abstain from washing clothes while someone is showering—this massive output of water could choke your system.

Repairs Become Harder

If your system needs maintenance or repairs, then we suggest you get it done in the fall while the ground is still soft. Delaying a repair until winter means it could become an emergency, and that emergency could cost you as you’ll typically need more powerful tools to access the tank through the frozen ground.

Are you in need of septic repairs? It’s not too late. Reach out to us today for help.