Maintaining your septic tank is essential for its optimal performance and preventing septic backup. While many might believe that winter conditions pose a challenge, remarkably, we are available for septic system service in Prineville even during the snowfall. Our team can handle all septic maintenance, including regular cleaning, septic pumps, and treating the area around the system with care. Contact us today to schedule a septic system service or read on for helpful tips to keep your system running efficiently and avoiding septic backup this winter.
Get The Best Services In The Central Oregon Area
Winter maintenance tips for your septic system
Septic systems are essential for any household. They ensure safe and efficient wastewater treatment. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that the system continues to run smoothly as winter approaches. Moreover, especially if you wish to avoid any unexpected problems, this becomes crucial during the holidays. Here are a few essential tips you should keep in mind.
1. Don’t shovel snow off the top of your septic tank
When the snow starts to pile up, you might think about clearing it off the top of the septic tanks. The snow that is piled on top of your septic system acts as an insulator.
The snow has air pockets which give it insulation properties. This prevents the tank from freezing during cold weather. Imagine it as a blanket that provides warmth for the system. By removing this protective layer, you expose the tank to lower temperatures that can cause it to freeze. Septic tanks that are frozen can cause damage and disrupt the treatment of wastewater.
You should let the snow melt naturally if you notice a large amount of it on your tank. Avoid artificial heating methods as they can be counterproductive.
2. Regularly pump your septic tank
Septic tanks require regular maintenance in order to work correctly. Solids can build up at the bottom over time. These solids can cause a backup or tank failure if they are not pumped out regularly.
Experts recommend that you have your tank pumped out at least every two years. However, the frequency may vary depending on the size of the tank and how much it is used. Plan your tank pump-out in advance of the winter season to avoid the challenges of iced ground and other obstacles.
Here’s an important tip for the holidays: The last thing you need during a Christmas Eve dinner with friends and family is a septic system malfunction. Schedule a visit to your septic tank before the holiday season begins. You can customize our all-year cleaning services to suit your schedule. Call us now to ensure a stress-free winter.
3. Do not park vehicles or equipment above your septic system
Parking heavy equipment or vehicles on the septic tank or close to it is a common mistake made by homeowners, especially in winter. It is common to assume that the structures will not be damaged if the ground has frozen solid. This is not true.
The septic system is made up of many delicate components. This is because the weight of the vehicle, particularly when it is concentrated on a small surface like tires, can put undue strain on these components. The tank, lateral pipes and baffles can be damaged. Such damages can be expensive and time-consuming to repair.
When you are hosting a holiday party, make sure that your guests know where they may and cannot park to avoid a potential septic backup. By giving a simple instruction, you can prevent other related problems.
4. Do not pour grease, oil, or turkey drippings down the drain
Cooking and eating are more popular during the holiday season. Fats, oils and greases must be disposed of. These substances are often called FOG and can be devastating to your septic tank.
FOG, when poured into the drain, can adhere to the pipe walls. This buildup over time can lead to blockages and clogs. You might be surprised to learn that grease causes most septic system problems.
Let them cool down and solidify before pouring. Scrape the ice into a garbage bin. By being proactive with your disposal practices, you can avoid future plumbing problems and potential septic backups.
5. Locate your manhole cover and septic tank
Knowing where to find the various components is a good first step in maintaining a septic system. Finding and accessing manhole covers or other entry points is difficult, especially in winter when the ground may freeze.
Be sure to know the layout of your system. Take the time to mark these components if you have recently moved into a property. If you have an emergency and need to access your system, this can save your life.
It is recommended that access points are brought up to the grade level. It makes it easy to find and use them at any time. Markers or a bucket placed over the access point will help technicians locate them easily if you are planning to do a winter service.
Maintenance of a septic system is important for the longevity of the system, as well as the safety and health of your family. You can avoid unexpected costs and have peace of mind by taking care and making timely interventions. As winter approaches, it is important to prepare for the cold weather.
Get The Best Services In The Central Oregon Area
Contact Greenbar Excavation Now!
Greenbar Excavation is a family-owned business located in Prineville, Oregon that specializes in excavation, grading, and site preparation services. We have been providing these services to customers for over 20 years and are proud of our reputation as one of the best excavation companies in the area. Our team consists of experienced professionals who understand how important it is to provide quality workmanship on every job we take on.
Our Services
At Greenbar Excavation we strive for excellence when working with clients whether they need residential or commercial grade excavations. Our goal is always customer satisfaction no matter what type of job we do; from single home improvements all the way up to major industrial sites requiring extensive earthworks -we guarantee high quality results at competitive prices! With decades worth of combined industry knowledge under belt there’s nothing Greenbar Excavation can’t handle when it comes down getting ground ready for whatever purpose may require!
Don’t look any further, go with the company with your best interest in mind! We offer a multitude of services which are:
- Septic pumping
- Drainage Services
- Landscape prep
- Site grading
- Foundation excavation
- Concrete/ prep finish
- Utility trenching
- Driveways
- Septic tank replacement
- Complete septic system replacement
Call us today with any questions about our avoid a septic backup this holiday season and check out our 5-star reviews!