Prepare The Septic System Before The Winter | NYSeptic.com
NYSeptic.com | Murphy's Cesspool & Septic Service
This resource provides guidance for septic system users before, during, and after winter weather. Understanding your septic system type, location, and components before winter weather occurs will make this guide more useful. Please visit NYSeptic.com to access educational resources for septic system users.
Before the Winter
Always keep your septic system well maintained; a well-maintained septic system is better able to withstand the stresses of winter weather. If you live in an area that commonly experiences winter weather, take these steps to protect your septic system.
Know and document all components of your septic system. Take photos of the connections and system components. These photos will be helpful if components are destroyed and you need to replace them or file insurance claims. Make sure your photos and/or documents include:
- Septic tank location
- Septic system records or drawings
- Electrical components
Check & Repair Leaking Plumbing Fixtures
Small trickles of water can freeze within the pipe and eventually cause the pipe to freeze solid. They also reduce the water pressure of the entire system.
Allow Grass to Grow Long & Insulate The System
Let the grass in your lawn get longer in the late summer/fall over the tank and soil treatment area to provide extra insulation to the septic system.
Consider Wrapping All Pipes With Heat Tape
If you have high-efficiency appliances that generate small amounts of water heat tape is extra support to prevent freezing during harsh winter months. Options include installing insulated pipes, adding insulation to tanks or manhole covers, or placing a layer of mulch (8-12 inches) over the pipes, tank and drain field. This mulch could be hay, straw, or any other loose material. Contact a Murphy's Cesspool & Septic System service professional for more information.
Ensure The Land Around The Manhole Covers Is Downward Sloped
This is for the purpose of allowing snow that melts to flow away from the system as well as rain water.
Avoid Compacting The Soil Around The Septic System.
Compacted soil provides less insulation than non compacted soil. Never allow vehicle traffic or livestock above the tanks or on the drain field. Especially avoid heavy machinery over the Septic System. Check with a Murphy's Cesspool & Septic System service professional before doing any landscaping to make sure that your septic system complies with freezing depths for the area.
Check For Open, Broken Or Uncapped Risers & Manhole Covers
This occurrence may allow cold air in and cause freezing. Be careful around any openings to the system and contact a Murphy's Cesspool & Septic System service professional for any needed repairs.
Check For Any Water Pooling Near The Drain Field.
Effluent released from a failing septic system may freeze and prevent further effluent from entering the soil. Contact a Murphy's Cesspool & Septic System service professional for any needed repairs.
Comments
Post a Comment