Don’t let worries about cost or convenience prevent you from setting up the necessary septic tank maintenance schedule. Septic tank maintenance helps extend the life of your system while saving you money and protecting the environment. Proper maintenance can be an inexpensive way to prevent expensive damage.
Sufficient septic system maintenance has three components:
Inspecting and pumping
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests homeowners “inspect and pump frequently,” recommending a schedule of anywhere from one to five years, depending on the type and size of the system. The EPA also recommends homeowners procure a service contract from a licensed septic service provider.
Efficient Water Use and Waste Disposal
A well maintained septic system combined with efficient water can help preserve and protect our water supply. These strategies also save you money by reducing your water use and helping your septic system last longer.
- Replace toilets and washing machines with high efficiency models
- Use faucet aerators and high-efficiency showersheads to reduce the amount of water entering your system
- Never flush anything beside human waste and toilet paper or the system could clog
- Never pour grease, solvents or toxins down the sink or you could kill or impede the bacteria breaking down the waste
Drainfield Maintenance
As the last phase of treatment before the wastewater returns to the aquifer, your drainfield must be protected from undue pressure, damaging intrusions and excess water. Follow these guidelines to maintain your leaching field and keep your system running at its most efficient.
- Never park or drive on your drainfield.
- Plant trees far enough away from your system that the roots will not invade. Not sure how much distance you need? Call Mike and he can advise you based on your septic tank and landscape.
- Make sure rainwater drainage systems, gutters, sump pumps and any sources of water drain away from the leaching field so as not to overwhelm the system.
A clogged filter may be a warning that you’ve waited too long between pumpings. Need to clean your septic filter? Find out how..
A well-maintained septic system can last for decades. Having issues with your system? Call Mike! He can help.