Living in a home with a septic system is not all that different than having access to a city sewer system. Most homeowners can keep repairs and service appointments limited to when the tank needs to be pumped out. But it is essential to be aware of the condition or health of your septic system and call in a pro if you notice any issues. Below are just a few tips from septic system pros on how to keep your septic system in good condition to limit your need for septic system service appointments.
Be Proactive
Being proactive in every aspect of your septic system care and management is essential in keeping your operating cost as low as possible. The bacteria that help the system function are living creatures that require a healthy environment to do the job you need to have done. So be mindful of things like clogs and backups in your septic system. If you notice that a toilet is not flushing correctly or sinks are draining more slowly than expected, call in a pro before the situation becomes worse and more costly to correct. This also includes pumping out the holding tank. Don’t wait until it is flooding the yard and contaminating your property. If you are not sure about when to have the tank pumped out, call in a professional to provide you with a pumping service schedule.
Be Mindful About What You Flush And Wash Down The Drain
Even when your home is on a city sewer system, you should be careful about what you are flushing. And in the case of a septic system, that care is even more critical. Again, remember that you are relying on tiny living bacteria to consume waste inside the septic tank. And for them to keep doing their job, you need to provide a safe and healthy environment for them. Never flush or wash items down a drain that are toxic to the bacteria, such as:
- Gasoline, oil, other petroleum products
- Oil or cooking grease
- Paint, paint thinner, solvents
- Antibacterial soap
- Items with high phosphorous content like laundry detergent or cleaning products
It is also essential that you never flush items that will create clogs in the septic system. Only septic safe toilet paper and human waste should ever find their way into your toilets and then the septic tank. Common causes of septic system clogs include flushing:
- Feminine hygiene products
- “Flushable” wipes
- Tissues
- Paper towels
- Napkin
Clogs in your septic system will often require the use of a special hydro-jet machine to blast away the clogs. And that is a cost that can be completely avoidable by taking a moment to be mindful about what you flush and wash down the drains in your home.
Provide Easy Access
Most service companies provide septic tank pump-outs at a flat rate. But when there are unnecessary challenges, you are charged extra for the added time. The most common issue our pros encounter is a buried septic tank cover. After a year or more without use, these covers can become buried or “lost” under soil and debris. Keeping the lid clearly visible and the path to it clean are the best ways to avoid added charges. A simple tank extension can be installed to elevate the cover to the proper level if you have repeated issues locating the lid for pumping service.
With just a little added care, your septic system will function flawlessly and cost-effectively between pumping services. Call (281) 317-6103 to schedule service or for any assistance from the Brown Aerobic Service Company septic system experts.