Most homeowners only think about their septic system when their sinks or toilet stops functioning as expected. However, septic systems need care and attention to manage waste-water better and avoid trouble. Fortunately, taking good care of the septic tank requires simple routine tasks.
Proper septic maintenance could save much money that would otherwise go into septic system repair or replacement. Here are a few tips to keep septic systems in good shape.
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Understand the Septic System
Some homeowners do not know much about their septic systems. However, understanding how the system works is the first step toward protecting the system. Therefore, take time to know the location of the system, the septic tank capacity, how it works, when it should be pumped, and early signs of trouble.
Homeowners who bought used homes should check the construction permits and maps to locate the system, know its size, and understand its maintenance schedules.
Seek Timely Pumping Services
Most homes need septic services every three to five years. Unfortunately, some homeowners rarely pay attention to the pumping schedules and only act when the septic system fails. Septic tank treatment is not something that should be put off
Calling septic pumping professionals promptly ensures they keep the tank clean and safe to collect more solid waste. Besides, the professionals examine the entire system and identify clogs and leaks for timely repairs. They also help homeowners keep accurate septic maintenance records that can be handy when selling the property.
Avoid Cleaning Chemicals
Some cleaning products contain chemicals that could kill bacteria digesting solid waste in the septic tank. Some chemicals could also damage plastic septic tanks.
If no bacteria are in the tank, the waste builds up quickly and requires pumping. Professionals recommend using a drain snake or a plunger to eliminate clogs in the drains instead of chemicals.
It is also advisable to avoid toilet bowl cleaners, disinfectants, and antibacterial soap since they have the same impact. If a homeowner has to use these products, they should use small quantities for a short time to protect bacteria in the septic tank.
Protect the Toilet and the Sink Drain
Some people flush diapers, papers, hair, dental floss, and feminine products down the drain. However, only human waste and the appropriate amount of toilet paper should be flushed. The solid materials most people dump in the sink could also cause septic system troubles.
Therefore, solid materials such as rice, medication, egg shells, coffee beans, flour, and fat should not be allowed into the sink drains. Dairy products such as mild, cream, and butter could also clog the septic system. This is because they take time to digest because they lack oxygen.
Remember to pay attention to the food materials from the garbage disposal unit. The solid increases the layer of solid waste that ends up in the septic tank. The waste that ends up in the septic tank should be biodegradable.
Do Not Release Too Much Water into the Drain
Releasing too much waste-water into the septic tank could also affect its performance. The septic system needs time to allow the solid waste to settle before the effluent is released into the leach field. Therefore, avoid having one day for laundry, dish-washing, and all cleaning tasks because the water might stress the septic tank and flood the drain field.
These simple maintenance tips can help prevent drain clogs and avoid septic system problems. Hiring septic professionals to inspect the system and test the septic system’s functioning is also important for timely repairs.
