Septic tanks are often overlooked in our homes, as long as they keep working, and our messes are cleared. But, just like any other system in your home, it needs seasonal maintenance and care to keep working all year. Winter is almost here, and you need to understand how to handle the conditions that winter brings and how that could affect your septic tank. To make sure your septic system is functional and healthy throughout the colder months, there are a few things you should consider and take care of when it comes to your home septic system. 

 Read this blog to understand how to prepare your septic tank for winter and if you should consider scheduling Septic Tank Pumping Santa FE NM to keep it in working order and fend off any septic problems. 

How to Maintain Your Septic Tank During the Winter Months

Schedule a Septic Pumping Service 

Even though summer or spring is a better time to get your tank pumped, if your septic tank is due for a pumping service, don’t delay it or wait for winter to pass. Depending on the size of your house and the habits of your family, you should get your septic tank pumped out once every few years, so if your tank needs maintenance in the winter, schedule a service to get it taken care of before the snow sets in. Also, if you wait too long, then you run the risk of having your tank overflow and sewage backup inside your home.

Cover & Protect Your Tank and Drain Field

Just like you need to cover yourself during winter to protect against the cold, so does your septic tank and drain field. Adding insulation covers over these parts of your septic system keeps them from freezing, and a thick layer of straw or mulch acts as a natural insulator, keeping bacteria active and helping the system retain heat. This is required to prevent pipes from freezing and preserve your septic system’s functionality. 

Shovel or Plow Snow Very Carefully 

Be careful when clearing snow from your property, as snow serves as an insulation in below-freezing conditions, and may keep the contents of your septic tank from freezing too. Don’t remove the snow from around your tank; simply wait for it to melt, or you run the risk of damaging the entire septic system if a snowplow or snow machine passes over the septic tank. 

Never Pour Grease or Cooking Oils Down the Drain

Draining cooking oils and grease can damage your septic system, no matter the time of the year, but especially during the winter. Grease solidifies more quickly in colder conditions, which can cause clogs in the pipes or the tank. Always dispose of grease and greasy food in your trash. 

Keep the System Running

Regular use of your septic system is one of the best methods to keep it in good working order during the winter. You shouldn't put off running the water or flushing when necessary, and always keep the water running, especially if the temperature goes below freezing. You don’t need to blast it; just keep a trickle running. 

Your septic system can be severely damaged during winter if proper care is not taken. We hope these tips can help keep your system operating smoothly and survive the brutal winters. If you want to schedule your pre-winter septic pumping, then 505 Portable Restrooms is always available for all your septic-related needs.