Freezing Weather and Your Septic Tank

Many homes in Northern New Jersey are not connected to municipal sewer systems, requiring the use of a septic tank. However, for those new to the NJ area, or those who have never lived with a septic tank before, this can be an unsettling concept. One of the most frequent questions we hear at RFC is “will my septic tank freeze this winter?” While it can happen, it’s not likely. Read on to find out how your septic tank works in the winter, and how to make sure it functions properly all season.

The Power of Underground
Fortunately, your septic tank lives underground, where it is insulated by soil year-round, and also by snow in the winter months. Just like environmental engineers take advantage of geothermal heating to stabilize temperatures in a basement, your septic tank will stay relatively temperature-controlled. Each time you flush a toilet, empty a sink of dishwasher, or even wash your hands, you add additional warm to the septic system. Finally, chemical breakdowns of waste produce some heat as well. Older or poorly maintained systems often sprout their first leaks in the winter months due to the additional stress of cold weather and rapidly expanding and contracting ground.

The Biggest Risk: Poor Maintenance
The biggest risk for your septic tank, year-round and in the winter, is buildup of “sludge,” or materials at the bottom of the tank that are not broken down. This can overfill your septic tank and cause issues with freezing and leaking. Yuck! While you should have your septic tank serviced every two to three years in any case, make sure to get service before the winter months if you purchased your home recently or if you just can’t recall when the last service was.

Tank Installation Services
While regular service keeps septic tanks working longer and better, every tank will need replacement after a few decades or so. For some homeowners, this can be the best time to join into optional municipal sewer systems! If you are in need of a new septic tank installation in New Jersey, or if you live in one of the NJ areas ready to switch to sewer, find a trusted contractor to install!

RFC has installed hundreds of septic tanks, and converted dozens of homes from septic to sewer. Check out the photos on our website to see examples of the process, or contact RFC today for the best in residential contracting services!