As the Twin Cities weather is about to turn frightful, it’s essential to focus on a crucial winter task – winterizing your septic tank. 

We know, septic tanks are not anyone’s favorite topic to discuss, but if it freezes or cracks over the winter months, it will be the only thing you’ll bethinking about for the rest of the year, as repairs can be costly, and messy.

Whether you’re a snowbird heading south for the winter and are about to vacate your house for the next six months, or are a full-time Minnesota resident who wants to keep their septic tank working all winter, it’s essential to follow these tips from our trusted team of experts at Ground Tech.

Cold-Weather Risks for Septic Tanks

When the Minnesota temperatures plummet below freezing in the winter months, it can cause major issues for septic systems. The components can freeze, which can cause wastewater to back up into your house. 

This will not only create a mess, but it can also pose health hazards for your household. 

Fortunately, you can avoid these problems by taking the proper precautions.

How to Winterize Your Minnesota Septic Tank

The best way to avoid frozen pipes and frozen components in your septic system is to take precautions before the cold weather arrives. Our team recommends following these seven steps to protect your septic system this winter.

#1 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Check the Tank Lid for Cracks

It’s crucial to check the tank link, or manhole cover, for any cracks or defects. If there is a crack, water could enter the tank. While you’re checking it, you should also mark where it is located in case you need to access it during the winter when the system is covered in snow.  

#2 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Look for Clogs

You should also check the drainage system for clogs, or debris that could cause blockages. These could prevent the system from draining properly, which could cause backups. If these occur, it can cause damage to your house and property, and put your family at risk.

#3 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Check Your Home for Leaks

As part of winterizing your septic system, you should also check for any leaks in your plumbing system, whether they are in your septic system or another appliance in your home. Any leaks will create extra water in the septic tank, which can cause freezing and other problems. Interior leaks can also cause water damage in your house. 

#4 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Pump Out Your Tank

It’s essential to have your septic tank pumped out regularly. Ideally, our team recommends pumping it out every couple of years to prevent backups. During these routine cleanouts, our technicians inspect your system to ensure it’s working properly and identify any defects. 

#5 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Keep Water Moving

When the temperatures get really cold, it’s important to keep water flowing through your pipes and your septic system. If you’re home, your daily usage of taking showers, doing laundry, washing dishes, flushing the toilets, and washing your hands should be enough to keep the water flowing through your septic system. However, if you are away, then you should ask someone to come over periodically to run your run to keep it moving. You can also install installation around your pipes to keep the water moving and prevent freezing. 

#6 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Insulate Your Pipes

That brings us to our next tip – insulate your pipes. To prevent freezing in the winter months, you can apply insulation around the pipes.  

If you are not going to be home in the winter months, you should then fully winterize your pipes and system. Have your septic tank pumped out, and drain the pipes. 

#7 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Don’t Plow Around Your Septic Tank

A common mistake we see Minnesota homeowners make is thinking they need to plow or shovel the snow away from the area around their septic tank. This can actually be doing more harm to the unit. The snow can act as insulation from the freezing temperatures and can help prevent the system from freezing. 

#8 Twin Cities Septic Tank Winterizing Tip

Avoid Parking Vehicles, Equipment on Top of Septic Tank

It’s never a good idea to park heavy equipment or vehicles on top of your septic system. While the ground might be frozen in the winter months and seem safer todo so, it can still damage the system. 

Let Ground Tech Handle Your Septic Tank Services

At Ground Tech, we have experienced technicians who can help you winterize your septic tank. We offer full septic tank repair and replacement services. Our septic tank contractors are patient and understanding, and offer a world-class experience from the design to the finished project. Contact us today to get an estimate on your repairs or installations.

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