I'm Sandra Adams, a blogger and enthusiast of many eclectic targets, including pottery and industrial equipment and supplies. I've traced my family tree as far back as I can go and there is not one moment where my family hasn't been involved in manufacturing. My dad worked as a mechanic repairing industrial machinery and if it wasn't for me, he wouldn't have anyone to pass down his knowledge to. I've always wanted to know what my dad was up to, so I'd ask him what he did everyday. I've always been really curious and this has lead me to develop a really strong understanding of industrial equipment. My love for industrial equipment hasn't waned and now I feel like sharing this knowledge with others. I've created this blog for this exact purpose.
With some bitterly cold winters in certain parts of the country in recent years, some property owners have had to deal with freezing septic tank systems. You may be wondering how you can prevent this problem from ever developing on your property. Fortunately, you can start taking steps in autumn to avoid cold-weather issues with your septic system.
Provide Natural Thermal Protection in Autumn
You don't need to let your entire yard grow wild, but letting your grass grow longer over the tank and the drain field provides thermal protection. Rake leaves over these areas before the first snow arrives. You can also place hay or straw on the grass to create a blanket-like effect. These steps are particularly helpful during a very cold winter with little snowfall to insulate the ground.
Avoid Driving Over the Tank and Drain Field
This is important at any time of year, but particularly in autumn and during exceptionally cold temperatures. Compacting the soil with the heavy weight of a vehicle reduces insulating ability and increases the risk of freezing. This part of your yard shouldn't be a regular pathway for foot traffic, either.
Move Snow to These Areas
As you shovel, plow or blow snow, move it on top of the tank and drain field. That adds more thermal protection. However, be sure not to actually drive your plowing vehicle on the land you're trying to protect.
Use Warm Water
If you have a habit of washing laundry in cold water, switch to warm water during a cold winter to protect your septic system. Do a load every day instead of washing all the laundry on one day. Feel free to take plenty of baths and hot showers as well. This advice goes against the conservation recommendations you've heard for years, but using more warm water is better than risking a sewage backup.
Prepare for an Extended Trip Away
If you're going to leave for several days or weeks when temperatures tend to remain below freezing, you have two good options for septic system care. One is to have the tank pumped right before you leave, although that can be expensive if the ground is already frozen to a certain point. The other is to have a neighbor or someone else you trust stop by on very cold days and run warm water.
Concluding Thoughts
Using these methods, you should be able to prevent any freezing problems with your septic system. If something does go wrong, call a licensed septic tank service, such as Southern Sanitary Systems Inc, for prompt assistance.
Share26 February 2015
