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Commerce Offers Winter Season Maintenance Tips for Privately-Owned Wastewater Treatment Systems

For Immediate Release: November 12, 2007
Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661

MADISON - Owners of private wastewater treatments systems will want to follow seasonal maintenance procedures with winter approaching, Department of Commerce (Commerce) Deputy Secretary Aaron D. Olver announced today.

"Many Wisconsin residents rely on private wastewater treatment systems for waste treatment and disposal," said Olver. "These maintenance tips can help ensure that these systems function well throughout the winter season."

Recommended maintenance tips are as follows:

  • Stop mowing the grass over the drain field in fall so it can grow stronger to trap more snow.
  • Add a layer of mulch (8-12 inches) over the pipes, tank and soil treatment area to provide insulation.
  • If you live in an area without a natural windbreak, you may want to consider installing a snow fence to help keep the mulch in place and to trap snow.
  • Spread out your laundry schedule to one warm/hot load per day, year around. Use normal amounts of water---the warmer the better.
  • Don't leave water running all the time to prevent freezing. A slow trickle could freeze, while a steady stream could overload the system with water.
  • Don't add antifreeze to the system.
  • If you will be gone for more than a day or two, have someone visit and use water regularly. If you will be gone for an extended period (weeks or months), pumping the tank before leaving may be the best option. But consult with a professional before having a tank pumped.
  • Fix any leaky plumbing.
  • Keep all vehicles (including ATV's and snowmobiles) and high-traffic people or animal activities off the system, all year.
  • Make sure all risers, inspection pipes and manholes have tight covers. Adding insulation is a good idea. Unsecured covers represent a grave danger to children.
  • If any seeping or ponding occurs, contact an onsite professional.

Additional information on septic system maintenance can be found at http://commerce.wi.gov/SB/SB-PowtsOverview.html.

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