When it comes to keeping pipes from freezing, sewer pipes and drain lines are two different things. The risks of freezing are unique and so are the solutions. Both situations rely on electric heating cables, but the similarities end there. So here are five prevention tips to avoid sewer pipes from freezing.

Keeping Sewer Lines Draining

As long as the sewer pipe is sloped consistently and drains completely it might never get blocked with ice, even if it’s fully exposed underneath a raised building or buried by insufficient soil to keep the pipe above zero degrees. If you are going away on vacation, ask the person who is checking in at your home to run the taps for five minutes to reduce the risk of freezing due to low flow in the water service. Running water through the lines in cold weather makes it less likely that they'll freeze.

Sizing Your Cable

So how do you make sure sewer lines never freeze when you don’t have enough soil? It comes down to electric heating cables and there are two options: external and internal. Until recently, external was the only choice for drains.

Freeze-Proof Water Supply

There are many ways to keep sewer lines from freezing when they can’t be buried below the frost line, but the trick is making it all happen reliably and with minimal electricity use.

Don't forget about outdoor water features: if you have a pool or decorative water feature, turn the motor on and keep the pump running and the water circulating.

Seal up Cracks and Holes

Seal gaps around holes where pipes run through walls or floors, especially where the hole is letting in cold air. Use caulk or spray foam insulation to fill the gaps. If possible, seal holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor. Cold outdoor air that gets in through holes and gaps can make a cabinet compartment, which is usually pretty cold, even colder.

In cold temperatures, sewer lines can freeze if frost is pushed below the water line. Sewer lines inside the home can also freeze due to extreme wind chill and cold drafts.

Repair costs associated with frozen pipes are the responsibility of the homeowner. You can help prevent frozen pipes by keeping your home heated at normal levels to avoid cold spots. The sooner a frozen line is thawed, the better. Over time, freezing will extend further along the line and make thawing more difficult, time-consuming and potentially more costly.

West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Services have a long history of operating in septic, sewer and drain service, and our plumbing experts can assist with almost any challenge you may encounter.

Get a quote, advice or information from West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Services anytime by calling these numbers: Muskegon: 231-739-7423, Grand Haven: 616-847-1072, Whitehall: 231-893-4252, Holland: 616-392-8988, Coopersville: 616-837-1800, Allendale: 616-895-9080, Twin Lake: 231-828-5595 or click here to check our services.