Seasonal Septic System Care: What to Do in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Septic tank maintenance is a year-round obligation. Spring is the perfect time for septic tank pumping, and you must thoroughly inspect before the winter cold sets in. During summer, be aware of water usage so as not to overwhelm the system. Fall is the perfect time to check for tree root intrusion or if the flora around the septic tanks is causing any issues.
Septic systems are always hard at work, no matter the time of year. If it does malfunction in any way, it can cause serious damage to your property, the local ecosystem, and any nearby groundwater sources. So, don't get behind on the seasonal septic system care.
Learn what to do in spring, summer, fall, and winter to maintain the functionality of your septic setup. Let’s cover the basics of annual septic maintenance and give you some tips on what to do each month to keep your septic in top shape.
Consequences of Neglecting Septic System Maintenance
One major issue is the risk of backups, where wastewater overflows into your home or yard. This can create unsanitary conditions and unpleasant odors that are not only bothersome but may also attract pests. A poorly maintained septic system can leak harmful substances into the ground, affecting local water sources and harming the environment.
The financial implications of septic system failures can be significant. Any work the septic may need can cost thousands of dollars, especially if it requires extensive excavation. Regularly pumping the tank and inspecting the drain field helps avoid these costly repairs. You may also face fines if your system is polluting the environment.
Spring Septic System Care
As spring approaches, check the condition of your tank and look for cracks or corrosion. Evaluate the health of your drain field and look for areas that appear overly saturated or have standing water, which can indicate problems. Other signs of potential issues can include slow drains inside your home or frequent backups.
Schedule a Pumping
A family of four typically requires pumping every three to five years, whereas smaller households might extend this to every five to seven years. Determine the right interval by considering your laundry and shower frequency, as well as any other water usage habits.
Look for a reputable service in your area, and get quotes from multiple services to find a fair price. Before committing, inquire about their pumping process and any additional services they provide, like inspections or maintenance advice.
Check for Leaks
Keep an eye on potential leaks in your septic system. Inspect the area around your tank and drain field and look for:
Wet spots
Unusual smells
Areas where the grass is greener than the rest
Next, contact a septic professional to assess the situation. They can determine if there is a leak and tell you what you must do next. It might involve repairing a damaged pipe or replacing a faulty system component.
Inspect the Drain Field
Look for telltale indicators of issues, such as:
Standing water
Overly lush grass
Wet soil
Don’t park any vehicles or place heavy objects on the drain field to avoid compressing the soil and impeding drainage. Ensure that tree roots do not infringe on the area, as they can disrupt the system. Also, be mindful of water runoff from gutters or driveways that can oversaturate the ground.
Summer Septic System Care
Minimize water usage by scheduling laundry days rather than running a load daily. This conserves water and gives your system time to process wastewater. Reduce water consumption by using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and patios.
Filling up kiddie pools or excessive lawn watering can lead to heavy water use that may overwhelm your septic system. Heavy water influx can disrupt the natural breakdown of waste and lead to backups or other issues.
Protecting the Drain Field
Opt for grass or low-growing plants that won't interfere with the drainage. When landscaping around the drain field, consider using mulch or decorative stones to help retain moisture and prevent soil erosion. Maintain a clear path to the drain field for easy inspections and maintenance, and keep it well-drained to prevent pooling water.
Monitor for Signs of Trouble
Unusual smells emanating from your yard or around the septic tank can indicate a potential failure in the system. If you notice slow drains or backups, these could be signs of a clog forming in the pipes.
Fall Septic System Care
As fall temperatures drop, the risk of freezing increases, which can lead to serious issues. Schedule a professional inspection to check for wear or damage. During this inspection, the technician will:
Assess the tank
Inspect the drain field
Check the distribution box
Next, seal all access points properly so the system has no leaks. Consider pumping the tank to remove sludge buildup so it doesn't compromise the system’s performance. Finally, add insulation around exposed pipes to stop them from freezing.
Check for Tree Roots
Tree roots naturally seek moisture and nutrients, making septic pipes an attractive target. Once roots infiltrate the system, they can cause blockages and damage the pipes, leading to costly repairs. Look for signs of root intrusion, such as:
Slow drains
Gurgling sounds
Wet spots in your yard
Evaluate System Performance
Evaluate your system's performance during the fall, especially with increased usage from family gatherings or holiday activities. Monitor your system for signs of inefficiency. Create a checklist to guide your evaluation:
Check for proper drainage in sinks and toilets
Look for any standing water around the drain field
Listen for unusual noises from the septic system
Winter Septic System Care
Cold temperatures can lead to frozen septic pipes, blockages, and expensive repairs. Use foam insulation sleeves or heat tape specifically designed for plumbing applications. These products can maintain a stable temperature within the pipes.
If you have access to your septic tank, adding a layer of insulation on top can further shield it from the cold. If your area experiences extreme temperatures, consider using a small space heater in the area where your septic system is located.
Monitor for Ice Buildup
Look for signs of ice blockage like slow drainage, gurgling sounds from your plumbing, or backups in toilets and sinks. If you suspect ice buildup, act quickly. Start by checking the vents on your roof to see if they are clear of snow and ice, as blocked vents can cause pressure changes. You may also want to run warm water through your system to help thaw any ice.
Find Septic System Experts Near You
Your septic system doesn’t stop treating the wastewater from your home just because the seasons change. So you shouldn’t limit inspections and maintenance to just once a year. If you want a guarantee that your septic system will be effective year-round, Townes Septic Service in New Hampshire can make that happen.
We’ve been in the septic business for over 60 years and know how to keep any system healthy and operational. You can rely on us for routine inspections, repairs, and even complete septic replacements. No matter the season, call us at any time!
FAQ
Can septic systems handle heavy rainfall?
Septic systems can manage heavy rainfall to some extent, but excessive water can overwhelm the system. High water levels can saturate the drain field and cause slow drainage or, worse, backups. Redirect surface water away from the septic area to reduce risks and avoid excessive water usage during heavy rains.
How can I tell if the drain field needs maintenance?
Signs that your drain field may need maintenance include slow drains, pool water on the surface, and unpleasant odors. If grass grows unusually lush over the drain field, it may indicate excess moisture.