Educating homeowners - Dos and don'ts of septic tank care

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Owning a home with a septic tank requires responsible maintenance to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. Homeowners save money and inconvenience by maintaining their septic systems.

Dos

Regular pumping is essential to prevent the accumulation of solid waste in the septic tank. The size and number of occupants should determine how often you should pump your septic tank. Regular pumping helps maintain the system’s capacity and prevents potential backups and drainage issues.
Excessive water usage overloads the septic system, leading to premature failure. Conserving water not only reduces the strain on your septic tank but also promotes water conservation. Fix any leaky faucets or toilets promptly, install low-flow fixtures, and practice water-efficient habits like taking shorter showers and running full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.
When it comes to cleaning and personal care products, choose septic-safe alternatives. Harsh chemicals, antibacterial soaps, and bleach disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the septic tank, hindering its ability to break down waste effectively. Look for products labeled “septic-safe” or opt for environmentally friendly options.
Ensure that your gutters, downspouts, and other drainage systems direct rainwater away from the septic field. Excessive water from roof runoff saturates the drain field, compromising its effectiveness. Proper grading and landscaping divert rainwater away from the septic system.
Maintain a record of your septic tank inspections, pumping schedules, and any repairs or maintenance performed. This will help you track the system’s history, identify patterns or issues, and provide valuable information to septic professionals in case of any future problems.

Don’ts

Be mindful of the amount of water entering your septic system. Avoid excessive water usage within a short period, such as running multiple loads of laundry or taking long showers back-to-back. Overloading the system leads to backups, clogs, and the need for more frequent pumping.
Only flush toilet paper and waste are easily broken down by the septic system. Medications, diapers, wipes, cigarette butts, or household chemicals shouldn’t be flushed. These items clog the system and cause damage.
Grease, oils, and fats should never be poured down the drain. They solidify in the pipes and septic tank, leading to clogs and reduced system efficiency. Dispose of cooking grease in a separate container and discard it in the trash.
Despite the claims made by some products, septic tank additives are generally unnecessary. A healthy septic system contains naturally occurring bacteria that break down waste. Using additives disrupts the bacterial balance and potentially harms the system.
It is crucial to know the location of your septic system and avoid any digging or construction near it. Heavy machinery or excavation work damage pipes, disrupt the system’s functionality and lead to costly repairs. Here are the pros and cons of septic tanks.