When fall rolls around in Vermont, homeowners start thinking about winter prep — from sealing windows to stacking firewood. But there’s one important system often forgotten: your septic tank.

Cold weather and frozen ground can make septic issues much harder (and more expensive) to fix. That’s why early fall is the perfect time to give your system a little extra attention. Here are five signs your septic tank might need service before winter sets in.

1. Slow Drains or Gurgling Sounds

If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slowly — or you hear gurgling noises from your plumbing — it could mean your tank is getting full or there’s a blockage forming. As temperatures drop, pipes and drain fields become less forgiving, so it’s best to inspect and pump now.

2. Odors Around the Yard or Drains

That “rotten egg” smell is a red flag. Odors can indicate that gases are escaping from your septic system or that waste isn’t breaking down properly. Cold weather can trap smells close to the ground, making them even more noticeable — and unpleasant.

3. Wet or Spongy Spots in the Yard

If the area around your drain field is soggy or unusually green, your system could be leaking or overloaded. Once the ground freezes, it’s much harder for water to absorb, so leaks can lead to backups or surface pooling.

4. Time Since Last Pumping

If it’s been 3–5 years since your last pump, now’s the time to schedule. Pumping before winter keeps your tank from freezing or overflowing during the colder months when service calls are tougher (and sometimes more expensive) to make.

5. Alarms or Backup Issues

For systems with pumps or alarms, any warning light or sound means immediate attention is needed. Don’t ignore it! Once frost sets in, reaching buried components or drain lines gets tricky fast.

Taplin’s Fall Septic Checklist

✔️ Schedule a tank pumping if it’s due
✔️ Inspect your drain field for soggy spots
✔️ Avoid driving or parking on the system
✔️ Conserve water before heavy seasonal use
✔️ Book early before the pre-winter rush

Why Act Now?

Vermont winters are no joke. Scheduling a fall service ensures your system is ready to handle holiday guests, frozen ground, and heavier water use without surprise emergencies.

Taplin Septic: Your Local Vermont Experts

We proudly serve homeowners across Newport, Barton, Stowe, Lyndon, Craftsbury, and surrounding areas. Whether you need a pre-winter pump-out, camera inspection, or full system check, we’ll keep things flowing smoothly all season long.

📞 Book your fall service now!
🚛 Clean. Reliable. Local. That’s Taplin Septic.