Effects of Winter on Your Septic Tank

Colorado winters can have a big impact on your septic tank. The effects of the cold weather, storms and frozen grounds on a septic tank can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the type of tank, and how well it is maintained. In general, however, cold weather can cause many problems for septic tanks, including:

Freezing

When water freezes, it expands. This can cause a lot of pressure to build up inside a septic tank, which is not designed to withstand the expansion of freezing water. The tank can crack or even burst if the pressure becomes too great, leading to serious damage and costly repairs. To keep this from happening, it’s important to add insulation to the tank and its pipes to help keep them warm. 

Slower digestion

Cold weather can slow down the bacteria that break down waste in a septic tank. This can cause the tank to fill up more quickly, leading to backups and overflow. It’s important to avoid pouring grease or other substances that can clog the system down the drain to help prevent this. You should also avoid using large amounts of water in the house, as this can cause the tank to fill up faster.

Clogging

In areas with heavy snowfall, the weight of snow on the ground can cause the ground around a septic tank to shift. This can cause the tank’s pipes to become misaligned or clogged, leading to backups and overflow. To keep this from happening, it’s essential to keep an eye on the snow cover around your septic tank and to shovel away any excess snow that could cause the ground to shift. You should also avoid parking heavy vehicles on the septic tank or drain field.

Damage to drain fields

The drain field is an integral part of a septic system, as it filters out contaminants and helps to reduce the risk of pollution. Cold weather can cause the soil in a drain field to become compacted and waterlogged, making it less effective at filtering out waste. Avoid walking or driving over the drain field, as this can compact the soil and make it less effective. You should also avoid planting trees or shrubs near the drain field, as their roots can penetrate the soil and interfere with the functioning of the septic system.

Overall, it’s essential to take steps to protect your septic tank from the effects of winter. This can help save your system from costly damage and ensure that your septic system continues to function properly. If you notice any problems with your septic tank during the winter, it’s important to contact our team at Lion Home Service to help you resolve this issue fast. We stand by our Lion Guarantee and accept responsibility for your complete satisfaction with the materials we use and the workmanship we provide. Call our team today at (970) 551-6987 to find out more.