To get a septic system ready for an Okanagan winter, pump the tank in the fall if it’s due, mark where the lids are before the snow comes, keep vehicles and snow piles off the leach field, and fix any leaks so water isn’t trickling into the system all season. A little preparation in October can save a frozen-line emergency in January.
Winters in Kelowna and around the Okanagan aren’t as harsh as in much of Canada, but ice, snow and a skipped pump-out can still cause septic problems. Most of them can be avoided by getting the system ready ahead of time, whether it serves a home or a business.
Pump the tank in the fall if it’s due
Fall is the best time to get your septic system serviced. Most household tanks need pumping every three to five years; if you’re due, book before the ground freezes so you go into winter with an empty tank. Each pump-out includes cleaning the effluent filter if your tank has one, and our crew looks over the empty tank and tells you about anything that needs attention.
Septic problems are easy to overlook until they get out of hand, and a frozen or backed-up system in January is much harder to deal with than a routine pump-out in October.
Mark and clear the tank area
Over the summer, yard equipment, tools and patio furniture often end up near the tank and leach field. They won’t hurt the system, but they can block access when you need it. Clear the area around the tank lids, and keep heavy items, vehicles and trailers off the tank and the leach field, where their weight can damage the lines.
Before the snow comes, mark the lid locations with tall stakes so they can be found in an emergency. If your lids are buried, ask us about adding risers so the tank can be reached without digging.
Take care of water sources
Fix leaky toilets and taps, and choose low-flow fixtures when you replace them. A steady trickle into the system adds strain and can freeze in the lines. Make sure downspouts, sump pumps and surface water drain away from the tank and leach field, so meltwater doesn’t flood the system.
A flooded septic system is a health hazard for your family and your neighbours. If it happens, call a septic professional.
Leave the snow on the leach field
Undisturbed snow over the leach field is natural insulation. Keep vehicles, snowmobiles and plowed snow piles off it so the snow stays loose.
Book a fall pump-out
D&L Environmental pumps septic tanks from Vernon to Peachland, and we answer septic backups 24/7. Request service online or call 250-765-0999 to book your pump-out before winter. For habits that help all year, see our septic care guide.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, as long as the lids can be reached. Marked, shovelled lids make a winter visit much quicker.
Most often because of low use at seasonal properties, snow compacted over the lines by vehicles or foot traffic, or slow leaks that freeze in the pipe.
Undisturbed snow is good natural insulation. Keep vehicles, snowmobiles and plowed snow piles off the field so the snow stays loose.