Septic tanks could be at risk

Though Fergus Falls got some snow on Wednesday, cold temperatures beforehand combined with not much snow could spell problems for some residents’ septic systems. Two local septic service owners weighed in on the potential problems and how to prevent them from backing up your system.

Frost digs deeper in years when snow doesn’t act as an insulator, sometimes reaching and freezing septic systems – particularly the “drain field,” where the excess material in the septic system drains, and the line between the septic tank and the home.

Nature’s Call Septic Service owner Doug Green said the best time to protect against the winter freezes has already passed.

“Ideally, everyone takes precaution in the fall instead of (waiting) until it’s too late,” Green noted.

For people who are concerned about their systems in the fall, Green recommended not composting, trashing or burning all of your fall leaves.

“(Grow) your grass longer, or maybe leave some leaves or put some bags of leaves over your tank,” he said.

If you’re late to insulate, there still may be time, according to Fergus Power Pump owner Mitch Okerstrom, explaining that thick blankets, mulch and straw are also effective insulators.

“Anything to cover that drain field, if possible,” he said.

After insulation is taken care of, it’s important to make sure that no “ice dams” clog up the line between the septic tank and the house.

“Fix any leaky toilets or anything like that,” said Okerstrom, explaining that the slow flow of a small amount of water is much likelier to freeze. He and Green also said that some furnaces also feed small amounts of condensed water into the septic system. That can be harmful if not supplemented by other water.

Normally, said Green, freezing of small amounts of water isn’t an issue, as home residents typically use large amounts of hot water via showering, laundry or washing dishes.

When on vacation, however, “have someone run hot water into your system for three to four minutes every day,” he recommended.

“Usually the problems we do see are people who take a week off,” he said.

Okerstrom also urged caution with cooking supplies.

“Avoid all your greases from going down the drain,” he said. “That’s huge. Especially in the cold, they will coagulate (in the pipes).”

If your system is freezing, there are a few early warning signs, including frequent backups, slow drains, or a frequent gurgling sound when faucets are drained. A consistent, strange odor in the home when the water is on is another key indicator.

If homeowners aren’t careful, said Green, they may end up needing a fix that can impact time and money.

“I have had situations where the drain field has frozen up and I’ve had to pump the septic tank every time until spring,” he said, remarking that typical septic tanks fill up every two or three months. Another method requires a machine called a steamer which pumps steam or hot water through the pipe leading to the tank.

If a septic service is needed, he remarked, make sure that you know where your septic tank and its access are.

Though he said homeowners should still be vigilant, Okerstrom said this week’s weather could make things easier.