What Keeps Leach Fields From Freezing?

jimainiac · Feb 10, 2007

Just wondering how leach fields, which are not very deep in the ground, keep from freezing in the sub-freezing temperatures of northern Winters. Haven't really thought about it before, as we're on town sewer, but we're planning to move to our summer place that has a septic system. The frost can go down several feet or more, way past where the leach field sits. I understand how the solids in the tank would make heat as they decompose, but you wouldn't think that the liquid that flows out would be that "hot" when it runs into the leach field. And you can't always count on snow cover to insulate the ground.

Kendall69 · Feb 10, 2007

Bacteria in the leach field generates heat, and that heat rises.

_M_ · Feb 10, 2007

It's got to be those steaming turds. Each one is like a little reactor.

Perhaps on a more serious note hot waste water from showers, dishwasher, laundry, tub? Even cold water for that matter is about 20 degrees above freezing.

Harvster · Feb 10, 2007

Two words.....Burrito night!

I'm guessing in a regular active household there is enough warm water and bacterial action in the septic tank to keep things flowing. I've seen snow melt faster over septic areas.

midlf · Feb 10, 2007

Harvster said:
I'm guessing in a regular active household there is enough warm water and bacterial action in the septic tank to keep things flowing. I've seen snow melt faster over septic areas.

Bingo! Vacation places can have a septic freeze problem, especially if they have a mandated 3 year pumping requirement. Our neighbor has such a problem with their up north place. They rake all their leaves over the tank and leach field to prevent the freeze up.

DANOCHEESE · Feb 11, 2007

Keep the system active. Watch what kind of cleaning fluids you are using. You don't want to kill off the bacteria in the system. Also a nice straw covering on the system will keep the frost at bay,

The news here in Minnesota said there is a waiting line for plumbers to thaw out systems. I have my fingers crossed that mine holds up. New system and new 1100 foot rural water line. .