Septic tanks are invaluable for homes that can't be connected to a municipal sewer system. However, there are a few things you need to know to keep your septic tank in good condition. Here are three easy tips to prevent septic tank damage.
1. Watch What Goes Down Your Drains
Septic tanks are designed to process water and very specific materials, namely, human waste and biodegradables like toilet paper. Any foreign objects that make their way into your septic tank could remain there indefinitely, reducing its total capacity to filter waste.
All drains are connected to your septic tank, so you'll need to monitor your kitchen drains as well. Putting oil and grease down the drain may cause problems when these substances harden inside your septic tank. Small amounts of biodegradable waste like fruit and vegetable peels should have no negative impact on your septic tank, especially if you use a garbage disposal.
2. Invest in Professional Maintenance
Septic tanks are systems with finite capacity. Although they can filter waste efficiently for years at a time, your septic tank will eventually need to be pumped. Pumping your septic tank removes built-up waste in the tank and renews the bacteria and microbes that break down waste. Pumping your septic tank can solve issues like slow drains, standing water in your drainfield, and septic backups.
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends maintenance inspections every three years at minimum, with annual inspections for tanks that have electrical or mechanical components.
3. Take Care of Your Drainfield
The drainfield is the area on your property where your septic tank releases effluent, or processed liquid waste, into the soil. The drain field is typically located near the cement marker for your septic tank in a downhill direction. Previous owners, county records, or a septic service contractor can help you locate your drainfield.
Taking care of your drainfield is as simple as abstaining from a few actions that can damage your septic system. Avoid driving or parking on your drainfield, as the compression could crush your septic tank drain lines. Tree roots can puncture your septic system in search of nutrients, so never plant trees in or near your drainfield.
Keeping a septic tank in good condition for years only requires a few simple steps from the homeowner. Consider setting up a maintenance contract with a local septic service provider so your septic tank can always operate at peak efficiency. For more information on septic pumping services, contact a septic system company.
Share16 January 2023
As you read the articles on this website, you will notice two things. First, they are all about septic services in some ways. Second, some go deep — and others are full of more surface-level facts. This is kind of like your septic system itself! The tank is buried deep, but the drain field is more superficial. You don't have to be an expert on septic systems, but as someone who owns one, you should at least know how to tell when something is wrong with yours so you can call for service. You'll get that level of understanding from this blog — and probably more!
