Septic tanks are a critical part of your home's plumbing system, especially if you live in a rural area where municipal sewer connections are not available. As such, proper maintenance of your septic tank is crucial to prevent costly repairs and potential health hazards. This is particularly important during the winter months when freezing temperatures can cause significant issues with your tank and its associated plumbing.
A well-maintained septic tank should be inspected by a professional every three years. However, if it has been longer than this since your last inspection, it is advisable to schedule a check-up as soon as possible, especially before the onset of winter. Septic tank issues tend to be more common in the colder months because, like the pipes and hoses outside your home, your septic tank and the pipes hidden beneath the ground can also be significantly affected by the cold.
At Home-Test
You can conduct a simple home-test to gauge the health of your septic tank before calling in a professional for a more comprehensive analysis. This involves standing over one of the inspection pipes or manholes and lowering a piece of white PVC pipe to the bottom of the tank. If you find 12 inches or more of sludge on the pole after pulling it out, this is a clear indication that you need to contact a local plumber to inspect your septic tank and remove the excessive sludge.
Never Empty Tank Yourself
It is important to note that you should not attempt to empty the tank yourself. Incorrect handling can damage the tank and potentially your property. It is always smarter to hire a licensed professional to empty and clean your tank. While it is possible to empty or fix a sump pump in the winter, it can be challenging and expensive. Therefore, it is best to have your pump inspected and your tank emptied before the winter months to prevent any issues.
Check Other Properties
If you own rental properties or vacation homes, ensure to have their septic tanks and pipes checked as well. Septic tanks that are not used regularly are more likely to freeze and become damaged. The risk of freezing is also influenced by factors such as the depth of the pipes in the ground and how snow has settled on your property. Snow can act as an insulator for your septic tank, but heavy snow can cause the ground to compact, potentially leading to leaks in your septic system.
Call A Professional
In case you find yourself facing septic tank issues in winter, it is crucial to reach out to plumbing professionals who can help identify any leaks or other hazards and provide solutions. It's not advisable to rely on DIY advice from the internet, such as adding antifreeze or other additives to your tank, attempting to pump out frozen sewage, starting a fire over frozen pipes, or running the water in your house to flush out the ice. These methods can be ineffective or even dangerous.
Instead, the best approach is to take preventative measures by calling your local professionals to have your septic tank inspected. This will ensure that your home is prepared for the long cold winter ahead with one less worry and expense. By doing so, you can avoid the stress of dealing with septic tank problems and focus on enjoying the winter season.
And remember, if you're ever in doubt or need assistance, the experts at Linthicum Plumbing and Drain Cleaning are just a call away at (410) 768-5350. Ready for a septic tank check-up or maintenance? Contact us today!