What to do (and what not to do) if your septic tank freezes in Vermont

Winters are cold in Vermont. When the ground freezes, with inches deep of frostline, your septic system — including your septic pipes, tank or soil treatment system — also risks freezing, which can cause big problems. Sewage water can back up and flow into your tub, toilet or faucets, and cause a disgusting mess.

If your septic tank freezes, call Plumbers 911 Vermont for an emergency plumbing contractor. We can send a licensed plumber to your home with specialized tools to take care of the problem.

Here are some reasons why your septic tank froze, signs of a frozen septic tank and what you should never do to a frozen septic tank.

 

Why a septic tank freezes

There are four components in a septic system where freezing can occur:

• The pipe connecting the house to the septic tank
• The septic tank 
• The pipe connecting the septic tank to the soil treatment system (the drainfield)
• The soil treatment system

The pipes leading from your house to the septic tank are the most likely to freeze. Usually this happens because either your toilets or faucets have a leak that allows continuous flow of water through the pipes, which can freeze and lead to a blocked pipe.

Another common reason these pipes freeze is infrequent use, such as a vacation property that is unoccupied during the winter.

Contact Plumbers 911 Vermont to repair any septic problems that may have resulted from these factors.

 

Signs your septic tank is frozen

If your septic system is frozen, the toilets will not flush. The sinks will not drain because they are clogged with ice. Bathtubs back up with water. Washing machines and ice machines will no longer work.

Call Plumbers 911 Vermont to resolve this situation fast and accurately. 

 

What you should never do if your septic tank freezes

There is not much you can do on your own to thaw a septic tank. You will need to call a licensed plumber like the contractors at Plumbers 911 Vermont. But there are numerous actions you should never do because you can make the problem significantly worse.

• Do not add antifreeze, salt or any other additive to your septic system. 
• Do not run water in hopes of thawing the ice because this inevitably creates more ice.
• Do not let sewage flow on the ground above your septic system.

 

Call Plumbers 911 Vermont for a licensed plumber

If your septic tank freezes, the only solution is to hire a professional plumber like those who contract through Plumbers 911 Vermont. They can de-ice a frozen septic tank line with steamers and high-pressure jetters to unfreeze system piping. They also may use heat tape and heat tankers to help the situation. 

Save $25 off your first visit from a Vermont plumber!

 

All our Vermont Licensed Plumbers are highly trained and fully vetted. They are drug tested, insured and bonded. Call Plumbers 911 Vermont for a trusted Licensed Plumber today!