It’s no fun when emergencies happen, especially during the winter months. With the cold comes additional risks to your septic system. Septic systems are a type of wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural areas with no access to a central sewer system. These systems are typically underground and consist of a septic tank, which collects wastewater from home, and a drain field, which filters the wastewater and allows it to seep back into the ground.
Septic systems are designed to handle a certain amount of wastewater; if they are not properly maintained or overloaded, they can malfunction. This can lead to problems such as sewage backups, foul odors, and even health hazards.
Here are some common septic emergencies you may experience and what you can do to avoid them:
Septic Tank Overloading
The holidays present an increased risk of septic tank overloading. Because families are spending more time at home during the winter, there is increased laundry usage and an increase in visitors using the system daily. When your system gets overloaded, it can lead to leaking or system failure.
To avoid overloading, try spacing out the time between when you wash your laundry. Instead of doing all of your laundry on the same day, limit your daily usage to just a load or two.
Clogged or Blocked Drains
Clogged or blocked drains can also be a problem in the winter, especially if you are using more water than usual. Many people cook more family meals during the holidays, and there is increased toilet usage due to extra guests.
It’s important to avoid flushing anything down the toilet or dumping anything down the drain that could cause a blockage, such as grease, wipes, or other materials that do not break down easily. When drains become clogged or blocked, wastewater can go back into the home, creating a foul odor and health hazard.
Septic Pump Malfunction
Malfunctioning septic pumps can also be a problem in the winter. Septic pumps are used to move wastewater from the septic tank to the drain field, and if they malfunction, wastewater can accumulate in the septic tank and potentially back up into the home.
It’s essential to maintain and check your septic pump regularly and replace it if it is not working correctly to prevent malfunctions.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common winter issue and can also be a problem for septic systems. When pipes freeze, they can burst, which can cause wastewater to leak and create a messy and potentially dangerous situation. This is the last thing you want to happen during the winter months. It’s important to insulate pipes properly and keep your home warm, especially if you are away for an extended period, to prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.
In general, it’s important to be aware of the potential for septic emergencies during the winter and to take steps to prevent them. This can include insulating pipes, regularly maintaining your septic system, and avoiding putting anything down the toilet or drain that could cause a blockage.
If you experience a septic emergency, it’s important to address it quickly to avoid further damage and potential health hazards. Our trained professionals at Miller’s Services can help you prevent many of these issues from occurring. Contact our team to schedule your septic tank pumping today.