To pump holding tank now or wait until spring?

[bigswede]

We have a holding tank at our cabin north of Duluth, and the holding tank is full or nearly full. When we bought the place the previous owner said he left it full or almost full every fall when the left and would have it pumped in the spring so that there was weight there so frost would not push it. I am thinking I should pump it and then it is ready for spring. I know we open the cabin Much earlier than they ever did and close later than previous owners. Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[sparcebag]

I have seen empty tanks rise feet over winter! My neighbors did it once.The suggestion he got was leave it till spring.

[fishorgolf]

If you are not going to us it all winter I agree to leave it until spring. I use mine all year so I pump in the fall because I do not want to take a chance of problems in the winter. Every problem seems worse in the winter.

[ottertailguy]

The answer may be to have half pumped out. That is what we did when we had a cabin with a holding tank. The cost will be the same as pumping it all out, but I was more worried about doing the right thing. I would think the last thing anyone wants is a full tank and lines during freezing temps. How much does it cost these days to have it pumped? It cost $50-$60 five years ago around Ottertail.

[snoozebutton]

I paid $110 last fall.

[turtleboy]

I would have some fear of leaving a full tank unused over winter that freezing could crack the tank at the seam 1/2 way up causing leakage. Maybe somewhat less than 1/2 full unless on very stable soils (sand or bedrock) is the safest bet?