Five Winter Tips for a Healthy Septic System

Rachel Kline • December 31, 2019

Our Top Winter Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

If you own a home with a septic system, year-round maintenance is necessary to keep things operating properly. Yep, even when there's snow on the ground, we're hard at work servicing Central Pa septic systems! From regular clean-outs and septic pumping to treating the area your system is located with care, our crew is here to provide quality septic maintenance services all winter long. Contact us today to schedule service, or keep reading to learn more about how you can winterize your septic system for a cold, Pennsylvania winter. 

1. Do NOT Plow Snow Off the Top of Your Septic Tank
Snow above your tank acts as insulation. We've seen tanks freeze when snow has been plowed off the top because that layer of insulation was removed. When in doubt, let the snow melt naturally. 

2. Have Your Septic Tank Pumped Regularly 
We highly recommend having your septic tank pumped out every 2-4 years. We offer clean out services all year round so if your tank is due to be serviced, contact us today to schedule maintenance. 

3. Do NOT Park Cars or Equipment Above Your Septic System
When the ground is frozen it might not seem like an issue to park on a sand mound system or in the yard near your septic tank, but we recommend you avoid parking on or near your septic system anytime of year. The weight of a vehicle can cause damage to your tank, laterals/pipes or baffles. 

4. Do NOT Pour Turkey Drippings or Grease Down the Drain
Can you guess the number one cause of backups and clogs? It's from grease! When you're cooking this holiday season (or anytime) be sure to dispose of bacon grease, turkey drippings etc. in the garbage - NOT down the drain. 

5. Know Where Your Septic Tank & Manhole Cover is Located
If you require maintenance this winter, be sure you know where your tank and access point is located. When the ground is frozen, digging open a manhole cover is nearly impossible and can add time (and cost) to your regularly scheduled maintenance call. 

Browse the blog for more helpful tips and information from our septic experts. We offer both residential and commercial septic services for homeowners and businesses in Lancaster, York, Lebanon, Dauphin County and beyond. Ready to schedule service? Give us a call today at 717-898-2333. 

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