Winter Sewer Problems in NJ: How Cold Weather Affects Your Sewer System

Winter in New Jersey brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice—but did you know it can also cause serious sewer problems? When temperatures drop, your sewer system is at risk of freezing, clogging, and even bursting, leading to costly repairs.
Understanding how cold weather affects your sewer lines can help you take the right steps to prevent winter-related plumbing issues. In this blog, we’ll cover the most common winter sewer problems, why they happen, and how you can protect your home or business from sewer damage this season.

How Cold Weather Affects Sewer Systems in NJ
When the temperature drops in New Jersey, your sewer system faces several challenges, including:
✔️ Frozen Sewer Pipes – Water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause blockages.
✔️ Grease & Fat Buildup – Cooking grease hardens faster in cold pipes, leading to clogs.
✔️ Tree Root Intrusion – Tree roots seek moisture from sewer lines, causing leaks and backups.
✔️ Ground Shifting & Pipe Damage – Frozen soil can cause pipes to crack or misalign.
✔️ Septic System Issues – If you rely on a septic tank, winter can slow down bacteria that break down waste.
If winter sewer problems aren’t addressed quickly, they can lead to expensive repairs and even sewer system failure.

​Common Winter Sewer Problems in NJ & How to Prevent Them
1. Frozen Sewer Pipes
Problem: Sewer pipes can freeze when temperatures drop below freezing, preventing wastewater from flowing properly. Frozen pipes can burst, causing significant damage.
Signs of Frozen Sewer Pipes:
🚨 Slow-draining sinks and bathtubs
🚨 Gurgling noises from toilets or drains
🚨 Sewage backups or foul odors
Prevention Tips:
✔️ Keep your home’s indoor temperature above 55°F, even when you're away.
✔️ Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and outdoor areas.
✔️ Allow a small trickle of water to run overnight to prevent freezing.
✔️ Seal any cracks or holes near pipes to keep cold air out.

2. Grease & Fat Buildup in Pipes
Problem: During the holidays, people cook more, and that means more grease and fat going down the drain. In cold weather, grease solidifies quickly inside pipes, creating blockages.
Signs of Grease Buildup:
🚨 Slow-draining kitchen sinks
🚨 Foul odors coming from drains
🚨 Recurring clogs and backups
Prevention Tips:
✔️ Never pour grease, fat, or oil down the drain—dispose of it in the trash.
✔️ Run hot water and dish soap down the drain after washing greasy dishes.
✔️ Use a grease trap to catch oils before they enter your pipes.

3. Tree Root Intrusion in Sewer Lines
Problem: In winter, tree roots continue growing underground and seek out moisture from sewer pipes. If roots enter your pipes, they can cause major blockages and structural damage.
Signs of Tree Root Damage:
🚨 Slow drains and frequent clogs
🚨 Patches of extra green grass in your yard
🚨 Gurgling noises or foul sewer odors
Prevention Tips:
✔️ Schedule a sewer camera inspection before winter to detect early root intrusion.
✔️ Use root barriers or chemical root treatments to prevent root growth near pipes.
✔️ If you already have root intrusion, consider hydro jetting or trenchless sewer repair.

4. Ground Shifting & Pipe Damage
Problem: Extreme cold temperatures cause the ground to freeze and expand, which can put pressure on your sewer pipes. This movement can lead to pipe misalignment, cracks, and leaks.
Signs of Sewer Pipe Damage:
🚨 Sinkholes or soft spots in your yard
🚨 Sudden drop in water pressure
🚨 Unexplained high water bills
Prevention Tips:
✔️ Make sure your sewer system is properly insulated before winter.
✔️ If your home is older, consider sewer pipe lining to reinforce pipes.
✔️ Schedule a sewer inspection to check for small cracks before they become bigger problems.

5. Septic System Problems in Cold Weather
​Problem: If you have a septic system, freezing temperatures can slow down the bacteria that break down waste, leading to clogs and system failure.
Signs of Septic Issues:
🚨 Toilets flushing slowly
🚨 Standing water near the drain field
🚨 Bad odors coming from the yard
Prevention Tips:
✔️ Pump your septic tank before winter to prevent overflows.
✔️ Avoid driving heavy vehicles over the drain field, as frozen ground can damage pipes.
✔️ Spread a layer of mulch over the septic system to keep it insulated.

How NJ Sewer Inspection Can Help Protect Your Sewer System This Winter
Cold weather in New Jersey can be tough on your sewer system, but taking preventive measures can save you from costly repairs.
At NJ Sewer Inspection, we specialize in:
✅ Sewer Camera Inspections – Detecting hidden cracks, tree roots, and buildup
✅ Hydro Jetting – Clearing out grease, roots, and winter blockages
✅ Trenchless Sewer Repair – Fixing damaged pipes without digging up your yard
✅ Preventive Sewer Maintenance – Keeping your system in top condition all year round
📞 Call NJ Sewer Inspection today at 973-798-9066 to schedule a winter sewer inspection and protect your home or business from costly plumbing emergencies!