The polar vortex and its sub-freezing temperatures can have a direct impact on your septic system. As your Dutchess County NY septic tank repairs experts, here at Jones Septic, we’re keen on sharing the best practices when it comes to septic system management and maintenance to ensure your safety and your family’s.
As you probably know, cold winters can damage sewer systems and extreme temperatures, as the ones recorded lately, can be brutal on your septic system. Many areas of the U.S. have experienced the terrible consequences of the polar vortex; the extremely cold weather has been incredibly hard on humans, pets, cars and sewer systems.
If you are a homeowner and your property has a septic system, you will need to be especially cautious and stay aware of the dangers periods of extreme cold have on your system. Septic tanks, sewage pipes and drain fields can freeze during the winter months if not properly safeguarded form the extreme temperature.
It is essential to keep your septic tank expert on speed dial in order to have quick access to inspections and repairs if an emergency occurs. However, anticipating yourself to what may happen during the winter months is crucial to avoid any potential damages extreme cold weather could cause to your septic system.
To protect your septic system from freezing, it’s a good idea to get your septic tank pumped before the ground freezes. Also, a professional septic tank inspection by a licensed professional can help rule out any potential leaks, damages to the system and provide you with a better idea on when your septic tank is in need of deep cleaning. Furthermore, the inspection should tell you if insulation is required or any repairs are necessary to avoid any issues during the coldest days of the season.
Make sure to fix leaks in plumbing fixtures and pipes to prevent them from freezing in extremely cold weather. Although deep snow can act as natural insulation, it is necessary to prevent snow from compacting. You can add a layer of hay, straw or mulch to protect the septic tank and drain field from freezing.
Another helpful tip is running warm water through the pipes, take a hot shower or use the dishwasher and flush the toilets often, so the moving water won’t allow ice to form inside the septic pipes clogging the system.
