Many homes in rural areas use a septic system to manage their wastewater. It is a very functional system when there is no city sewer system available. However, there is a certain level of care required to maintain the system properly. The health of your septic system is critical to its job performance. Because the system relies on bacteria to consume solid waste, it is essential to protect the health of this much-needed workforce. Here are a few simple tips to keep in mind to ensure the health and function of your home’s septic system:
Regular Check-Ups
Just like you go to the doctor or take your pets to the vet for regular check-ups, your septic system also needs regular inspections from a licensed professional. These visits are the best way to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. And if there are any minor issues, they can be corrected before they turn into more severe and costly problems.
In addition to check-ups, it is critical that you have the tank pumped out regularly. The time needed to fill your home’s septic tank will depend on the number of people in your home, your habits, and the size of the tank. A general rule is pumping the tank out once every three to five years. But your plumbing professional will be able to advise you when the tank is getting full and should be pumped out to avoid an overflow.
Be Water Conscious
Using water efficiently should not be limited to homes using a septic system. But careful water use is vital to your septic system. Too much water entering the system can be very hazardous. A large volume of water can drown the septic leach field. If you discover issues with your leach field being overly soggy, the problem could be a leaking toilet or faucet in your home that is flooding the septic system.
It is also important to remember that you should never drain items like a spa or pool into your septic system. The massive amount of water will flood the system. But the other concern is that chemically treated water can kill the beneficial bacteria in the septic tank.
Be Careful When Landscaping
When planning your landscape for the area over and near your leach field, make smart choices. Grass is ideal for a leach area because it will prevent erosion of the soil. You can also include smaller plants with limited root structures. However, it is essential to note that plant roots are opportunistic and grow towards water. Plants and trees with invasive root systems can grow into the leach pipes and cause blockages and severe damage to the lines.
Be Careful What Goes Down The Drain
Being mindful of what goes down the drains in your home is the best way to prevent clogs and other issues in your septic system. Grease, fatty food waste, and other large pieces of food waste should never go down the drain. These are all likely to create clogs and blockages in your drain lines and the leach field. All debris, grease, and oil should be placed in a trash receptacle to avoid harming your septic system.
In addition, be very careful about what is flushed down the toilet. Only toilet paper and human waste should ever be flushed. All other items, including paper towels, hair, and trash, will create severe and costly clogs. For more information and help with septic system care, call (540) 507-2904. The experts at Assure Plumbing & Septic are here to answer your questions and provide any septic system services you might need.