If you live in a rural area, it’s likely that you rely on a septic system for your household’s wastewater instead of a municipal sewer system.
Without regular maintenance and septic system services, the system can clog, malfunction, or become filled with scum and sludge.
Replacing a system can cost thousands of dollars – which can be avoided with proper maintenance.
Let’s take a look at how a septic system works and how you can keep it maintained to avoid costly repairs.
How Does a Septic System Work?
A septic system works by taking your wastewater from your home, allowing solids to settle on the bottom and grease to float to the top.
It then releases liquid into a drainfield, allowing it to soak through the soil to remove any harmful bacteria or viruses.
Because a septic system is an integral part of your home’s plumbing system and your property, it’s important that you take steps to maintain it and prevent major issues down the road.
Here are some ways you can maintain your septic system:
1. Be Careful What Goes Down Your Drain
Dumping non-decomposable materials down your drains can fill the septic tank and clog the system. Blockages can damage the system and cause sewage backups in your home.
Materials such as cooking grease, coffee grounds, paper towels, and baby wipes should not be flushed down the toilet or rinsed down your drains. When in doubt, throw it in the garbage to avoid costly blockages.
2. Reduce Your Water Usage
Efficient water usage improves the operation of your septic system and reduces the risk of failure.
The more water you can conserve in your household, the less water that enters your system.
You can reduce your water usage by:
- Fixing leaks promptly can prevent wasted water from dripping faucets or running toilets.
- Installing water-efficient fixtures like low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets helps reduce water consumption.
- Shortening showers to 5 minutes or less can significantly cut down on water use.
- Running the dishwasher and washing machine only when full maximizes water efficiency.
- Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes by hand prevents unnecessary water waste.
- Watering plants early in the morning or late in the evening reduces evaporation and conserves water.
- Using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and patios saves a considerable amount of water.
Apart from being conscious of the amount of water you use on a daily basis, you can install high-efficiency toilets and shower heads to limit your water usage.
3. Be Aware of the Appliances You Use
Every appliance in your home that relies on water affects the efficiency of your wastewater system.
While it may be difficult to live without a dishwasher and washing machine, there are other appliances that can decrease the efficiency of the septic system.
Hot tubs and garbage disposals rely on your septic system in order to dispose of wastewater.
When it comes to garbage disposals, treat it like you would your drains. Do not dispose of substances that could cause clogs and blockages.
If you have a hot tub, be aware that one tub full of water can overload a septic tank.
Place the tub opposite from the septic system and empty the water onto an area of your property that flows away from your house and septic drainfield.
4. Maintain Your Drainfield
Speaking of drainfields, it’s important to keep this area maintained as well.
This part of your septic system consists of a network of perforated pipes laid in gravel-filled trenches or beds. They discharge the liquid wastewater in an absorption field.
Avoid planting gardens or trees on or around your drainfield. The roots can grow into the system and cause significant damage to your system and plumbing.
Also, avoid parking vehicles or building structures on top of the drainfield. This can cause the soil to compact and prevent the drainfield from working properly.
It can also lead to broken pipes, leading to costly repairs.
Always keep the drainfield clear. This ensures that it’s easily accessible when you have the system pumped or if you need a repair.
5. Have Your Septic System Pumped Every 2-5 Years
In order to maintain a healthy and operating septic system, it is recommended that you have the tank pumped every 2-5 years.
This procedure keeps the scum and sludge levels from getting too high and seeping into your yard or causing a blockage.
This should always be performed by a professional.
What Happens If I Don’t Maintain My Septic System?
If you don’t maintain your septic system, several issues can arise over time, leading to expensive repairs and health hazards:
Backups and Overflows
Without regular pumping and maintenance, the septic tank can fill up with sludge, causing raw sewage to back up into your home or overflow into your yard. This can result in unpleasant odors, unsanitary conditions, and potential damage to your property.
Drain Field Failure
When a septic system is not maintained, the drain field can become clogged with solid waste, leading to system failure. This can cause wastewater to pool on the surface of your yard, creating a soggy, foul-smelling mess.
Contamination
A poorly maintained septic system can leak harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals into groundwater, contaminating nearby wells or water sources. This can pose serious health risks to your family and neighbors.
Keep Your System Running Smoothly with Septic System Services
Maintaining your wastewater system is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure it functions properly for years to come.
By following these simple tips, you can prevent major issues.
If you’re unsure about the state of your septic system or need professional help, don’t hesitate to contact Peak Sewer for expert advice and services to keep your system running smoothly.
With years of expertise in septic maintenance and repair, our team of expert technicians is here to provide reliable and professional service.