Is It Too Cold to Pump a Septic System?

In most cases, a septic system can be pumped in cold weather, but extreme freezing conditions can make the process more difficult or temporarily impractical. Whether it’s “too cold” depends on how deep your system is buried, how frozen the ground is, and the equipment your septic company uses.

When It’s Safe to Pump

Pumping can usually be done throughout the winter if:

  • The ground isn’t deeply frozen (the tank lids and access points can still be reached).
  • The tank and pipes aren’t frozen.
  • The septic truck can access your property safely.
  • When temperatures are about 18 degrees Fahrenheit and above.

When It’s Too Cold

It may be too cold to pump if:

  • The ground is frozen solid, making it impossible to dig or open the tank.
  • Access roads or driveways are icy or snow-covered, preventing the pump truck from reaching the site.
  • The tank contents are frozen, which can damage equipment or prevent proper pumping.
  • Typically when the temperature is around 18 degrees fahrenheit or below it can cause damage to pumping equipment.

In these cases, it’s best to wait until temperatures rise or the ground thaws.

Best Practices for Cold Weather

  • Locate and mark tank lids before the ground freezes.
  • Insulate the area over the tank with straw or mulch to reduce freezing.
  • Avoid compacting snow over the drain field—snow acts as insulation.
  • Schedule routine pumping in warmer months to prevent winter emergencies.

Sometimes it may be too cold to pump your septic system. Frozen ground or tank contents and equipment can make it challenging. If the system is accessible and not frozen, pumping can be done safely even in winter when temperatures are above 18 degrees. For routine maintenance, it’s best to schedule service before or after the coldest months.

THINGS THAT SHOULD NEVER GO IN YOUR SEPTIC TANK

  • Grease
  • Rags and strings
  • Coffee grounds
  • Paper towels
  • Baby wipes
  • Sanitary napkins and tampons
 
  • Diapers
  • Cigarette butts
  • Antibacterial soaps
  • Trash
  • Condoms
  • Bandages
  • Dental Floss
  • Cat Litter
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Other non-degradable products

REDUCE EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES WITH MAINTENANCE

You can do your part to keep your septic tank healthy and reduce the frequency of septic tank pumping with s septic service plan and preventative maintenance. First, don’t put anything down your septic system that is non-biodegradable, such as cigarette butts, diapers, paper towels, and more. Plus, installing an effluent filter, which helps to decrease the number of solids that leave the tank helps promote your septic tank’s health.

24/7 EMERGENCY SEPTIC SERVICES NEAR YOU

We service the Northern Ohio area; are service area includes Ashland, Lorain, Wayne, Portage, Summit, Stark and Medina Counties. Our family-owned septic company is the one to call for all of your emergency septic tank services, including septic tank pumping. We can work around your schedule when it’s convenient for you, including working on weekends and evenings. Our team offers efficient septic tank pumping, so we take up as little of your time as possible. We take our time to ensure your septic tank looks good and is in good shape for the future. Rest assured, when you partner with our local, family-owned septic company, your Northern Ohio home or business will be well served. Call to get started today!

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