Related Sponsors

Caring for your Septic System

Home » Plumbing » Septic Systems » Caring for your Septic System

There are many things you can do to avoid the costly and messy disaster that can occur with a failing septic system.

1. Practice water conservation. The more water you use, the more that the system has to dispose of. There are many different ways to reduce water usage. Use water-saving devices. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. Take shorter showers and shallower baths. Only wash dishes and clothes when you have a full load. Reduce the volume or flow of your toilet reservoir.
2. Keep accurate records. It’s important to be informed about the size of your septic system and where it is located. If you do not have this information, check with your local health agency. It’s also important to keep record of when your system has been maintained. This information will be valuable to the next owner of your home.
3. Inspect your system annually. Every year, you should inspect the scum and sludge levels inside your tank to make sure they are not in the “early warning level” range. You should also make sure the baffles and tees are in good condition. You should also periodically check the drainfield to make sure there are no odors, wet spots, or surfacing sewage.
4. Pump out your septic tank when necessary. Routine pumping will keep you from having problems later. If you use your garbage disposal frequently, you may have to pump more often.
5. Never flush harmful materials into the septic tank. Things that do not easily decompose should not be flushed. Some examples would include grease, cooking oils, newspaper, paper towels, rags, coffee grounds, sanitary napkins, and cigarettes. Other chemicals, such as solvents, oils, paints, and pesticides, should also not be flushed since they are harmful to the system and can damage the ground water. Septic tank additives are not a replacement for pumping and do not reduce the need for it.
6. Keep all runoff away from your system. Water from roofs, patios, or driveways should be diverted away from the area of your septic system. The dirt over your septic system should be slightly mounded to help water run off.
7. Protect your system from damage. Keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and livestock away from the area your septic tank is in. They could damage the drainfield or compress the soil. You should also check on the location of your tank before you plant a garden, install a pool, or construct a building.
8. Properly landscape your system. The best thing to cover your system with is grass. Concrete or other materials reduce evaporation, as well as the supply of air to the soil.
9. Never enter a septic tank. Work on the tank should be done from the outside. Poisonous gases in the tank, as well as the lack of air, could be fatal.
10. Contact your local health agency if you have problems with your system. Although some repairs can be costly, others are minor and don’t require much effort.

Next Page: Early Warning Signs of System Failure

Related Septic Systems Articles