At what temperature do the bacteria become dormant/less active in the tank?
Temperatures of 40 degrees F and below will significantly reduce the biological activity of all bacteria. A properly functioning septic tank maintains an inside temperature ranging from 48 to 52 degrees in northern climates during the winter. Although the bacterial activity deceases in the winter it does not stop. The temperature of the inflow effluent and the activity of the bacteria in the tank maintain functional temperatures.