What causes some septic tanks to freeze in the winter here in Northern VA

What causes some septic tanks to freeze in the winter here in Northern VA?

Septic tanks that are used on a daily basis don’t freeze in Northern VA, unless there is a mechanical problem such as a sagged drain line.

If you live here year round, use a good amount of hot water each day – like washing clothes, showering, and running the dishwasher every night. Your septic tank in Northern VA could also freeze if you have a dripping faucet or a high efficient furnace that drips into the system. Because it’s such a small amount of water, the water cools and freezes before it reaches the septic tank.

If you have a weekend or vacation home, you need to make sure to insulate your septic system by covering it with hay, leaves, or a cement blanket. However, if you don’t plan on using the home in the winter, you could have your tank emptied late in the fall, and use your system like a holding tank during the winter. There are now several types of heating systems that can be used in septic systems depending on your needs.

How do you unfreeze a frozen septic system?

This is a job for the experts, like SES, because it has to be done carefully. Pumping hot water, under high pressure through your septic system will usually open frozen septic and water lines. While most systems can be opened in 1-2 hours, some may take a while longer.

If you have any questions about septic tanks freezing in Northern VA, please call SES. Based in Warrenton, Virginia, SES offers 24-hour emergency response for septic system malfunctions. We’ve been inspecting, servicing, maintaining and repairing septic systems for residential and commercial customers in Northern Virginia since 1987.

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