Frozen Septic Tank

[Trester]

I built a house in Wyoming 15 years ago and this past winter the septic tank froze for the first time. Once the tank froze, about 40' of the septic line (line is 100' long) to the tank froze. Because the tank and leach field are on level ground, the tank is only covered by about a foot of dirt. My dilemma is that the tank is buried in the middle of my yard, if I attempt to put a mound of dirt over the tank, the mound will cause some serious snow drifts, which will be in an area that will not be good.

I read about using insulated blankets over the tank during the winter, but I would really like something a little more permanent. One of the thoughts that I had was using 4" Foamular NGX Rigid Foam Board by Owens Corning. My thought was to cover the top of the tank with the Foamular, and then also extend the foam board down the sides of the tank by 24". I have to admit that I am totally guessing here, so I would really appreciate some expert advice.

As I mentioned this was the first time that the tank froze in 15 years, so it isn't a normal problem. I tried calling some plumbers but each time I was told that the earliest anyone could be out would be 2 weeks.

 

[oldVermonter]

This web page has a discussion that may be helpful:

Don't let your septic system freeze

Don't let your septic system freeze. Here are some simple tips that can help you avoid costly problems with your septic system.

www.pca.state.mn.us

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Reach4]

My thought was to cover the top of the tank with the Foamular, and then also extend the foam board down the sides of the tank by 24".

I like this, except I think you might be better to extend the foam horizontally outward, rather than down the sides. I looked for discussions on this, but I did not find it.

 

[Trester]

This web page has a discussion that may be helpful:

Don't let your septic system freeze

Don't let your septic system freeze. Here are some simple tips that can help you avoid costly problems with your septic system.

www.pca.state.mn.us

Thank you for sending me the link! This is my first septic system and the first time that I have had a problem. Hopefully I can learn enough from this information to avoid the problems that I had this winter. Really appreciate you taking the time to send me this information.

 

[Trester]

I like this, except I think you might be better to extend the foam horizontally outward, rather than down the sides. I looked for discussions on this, but I did not find it.

Thanks for sending me the tip! I was able to find some discussions on the internet that concluded that it was advantageous installing the foam this way. Talked to Owens Corning and they felt it was the best approach. Really appreciate you responding to my problem!