If you’ve ever dealt with frozen pipes in the winter, you know how frustrating that repair can be. You may be wondering if your septic system can freeze, as well. In short, the answer is yes. There are a variety of reasons that your septic tank could be susceptible to freezing, but there are things you can do today to reduce the risk this winter.
Common Causes of a Frozen Septic Tank
Your septic tank could freeze for a variety of reasons. The biggest factor is where your septic tank lies in relation to the frost line. The frost line is the depth with which you can expect the ground to freeze in winter. Depending on where your home is located, this could be several inches to several feet below ground. If your septic tank is located above the designated frost line for your area, there’s an increased likelihood that it could freeze in the colder months.
In addition to the tank being installed above the frost line, other causes of a frozen septic tank include:
- Frozen pipes leading from the house to the tank, which could affect the temperature of wastewater before it enters the septic tank.
- Not enough soil on top of the tank, which will provide less insulation from the cold.
- Limited water usage, which reduces the temperature of the wastewater in the tank.
- A long cold snap or deep freeze that could impact the pipes and the tank itself.
- Shoveling snow over the septic system, which limits insulation of the tank below.
Signs Your Septic Tank May Be Frozen
It’s best to catch a frozen septic tank early before serious issues arise. Fortunately, there are several tell-tale signs that there’s a problem inside your tank:
Slow Drainage
If you notice slow drainage in your showers, bathtubs, sinks, and toilets that aren’t attributed to a clog, there’s a possibility your septic system may have frozen.
Backups
When your tank is frozen, it can cause wastewater to back up in your drains.
Foul Odors
Whether the odor is coming from the drains inside your home or the area of your yard around your septic system, it could be a sign of an issue inside the tank.
Gurgling Sounds
Clogs can often cause strange sounds coming from your pipes. If you notice these sounds during a cold spell, there’s a possibility that the clog is caused by ice inside your pipes or tank.
Frozen Ground
If the ground above your septic tank or drain lines seems to freeze more than the surrounding areas, it could indicate that your septic tank or leach field has frozen.
What to do if Your Septic Tank Freezes
Your entire septic system is essential for your home to function properly, so if you suspect that your tank is frozen, it’s important to take quick action. The best, and safest, solution is to call a licensed plumber that can diagnose the problem and its location, then quickly and safely get your pipes and tank working again. While you wait for the plumber, you may want to try some of the following methods:
Space Heater
You can use a space heater to warm up the area around accessible pipes, especially in a basement.
Heat Tape
You can apply heat tape to accessible pipes, but be cautious of standing water and other electrical hazards.
Hot Water
Pouring hot, but not boiling, water down the drain can help to thaw frozen pipes.
While you may be tempted to try some DIY solutions, the following are things you should not do to fix a frozen septic tank:
- DO NOT add antifreeze to the tank.
- DO NOT light a fire on top of the septic tank.
- DO NOT try to pump the tank on your own.
- DO NOT try to fill the tank with hot water.
How to Avoid a Frozen Septic Tank
Of course, preventing a frozen septic tank is always better than trying to repair one. These tips can help your septic system to function properly all winter long.
Install Below the Frost Line
Be sure to install a new septic tank below your area’s existing frost line. This will help to keep your pipes and tank from freezing every winter.
Insulate With Soil
Covering your tank with soil is a great way to keep it warm in colder months. Be sure to maintain a layer of soil about 8 to 12 inches thick above the pipes and tank. You could also add a layer of straw, leaves, or hay. This tip is essential if it’s your first season with a new septic tank and the ground cover hasn’t been properly established.
Keep the Water Flowing
When warm water is consistently flowing through the pipes, the likelihood that your pipes or tank will freeze is reduced. Don’t keep the water running 24/7, as it could overload the septic system, but be sure to run warm water through the system by showering, taking hot baths, and using the dishwasher daily. If you plan to be gone for an extended period, you may want to have your tank pumped before your trip, or have a friend or family stop by to run warm water often.
Stay Off the Tank
Driving, parking, and even heavy foot traffic on top of the septic tank could compact the soil or snow, which depletes the natural insulation of the tank.
Add Bacteria to Your Tank
Healthy septic systems use naturally occurring bacteria to digest the waste inside the tank, which keeps wastewater levels low and reduces the risk of clogs. Consider adding a bacteria-based product to your septic maintenance routine. When wastewater levels remain lower, it can reduce the likelihood of freezing, as well.
Avoid a Frozen Septic Tank This Winter
You may have a long to-do list when the temperatures start dropping, but don’t overlook the importance of maintaining your septic system. Your system can freeze, even when it’s installed below the frost line. Just be sure to keep a layer of soil or snow above the tank for insulation, run warm water through your pipes frequently, and use a bacteria-based product regularly to maintain the proper levels. If you notice slow drains, foul odors, or frozen ground above your tank, contact a plumber right away to avoid more serious issues this winter and all year long.