Getting The Most Out Of Your Septic System: What You Need To Know About Maintenance

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Protecting Your Home

When we moved into a more rural part of the country, I was surprised by how many things were different. In addition to having a septic tank, we also had a water well that we had to figure out how to service. However, we quickly learned everything we needed to know, and before I knew it, I was moving in to a place that I felt really good about. Now I can see that all of those little services are a serious benefit, since they help to reduce our monthly costs. Read more on this website about protecting your home and using off-the-grid technologies like septic tanks.

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Getting The Most Out Of Your Septic System: What You Need To Know About Maintenance

2 March 2021
 Categories: , Blog


When it comes to septic tank pumping and maintenance, far too many homeowners choose to take an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach to the issue. Unfortunately, this ill-advised approach to septic maintenance can often lead to costly repairs and ultimately shorten the lifespan of your septic tank considerably. Thankfully, you can easily help to avoid these types of issues by taking a few minutes to learn more about the maintenance your system requires and then putting that knowledge to work for you.

Annual Inspections

As with most household systems, the key to avoiding costly repairs with your septic system is catching small problems before they become big problems. For instance, while a small pipe leak or blockage can be quickly repaired by a qualified contractor, these minor issues can result in a failing septic system if they are not addressed in their early stages. The most effective way to detect these issues early on is through the use of annual inspections. 

When having your septic system inspected each year, it is important that you inspect not only the tank but the drain field as well. This will ensure that any drainage issues are not overlooked that could ultimately cause your tank to overflow.

Septic Tank Pumping

Properly functioning septic tanks are extremely effective at breaking down waste. However, these systems are not able to break down everything that may get washed down your drains. Furthermore, the bacterial process that allows these waste disposal systems to work will produce scum and sludge that cannot simply be broken down inside the tank. This is why it is so important to have your septic tank pumped every few years.

The frequency with which your septic tank needs to be pumped will depend on a variety of factors such as how many people live in your home and what type of waste your house produces. For instance, if your home makes use of a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink, your tank will need to be pumped more often since food waste breaks down slower, ultimately causing the tank to become full faster. 

The Use Of Additives 

Septic systems rely on naturally occurring bacteria in order to break down waste. However, many of the cleaning and hygiene products used today are antibacterial products. When these products are washed down the drain, they can disrupt the bacterial balance inside your septic system. The use of additives can help to replenish the bacteria levels in your tank and ensure your system continues to work properly. Talking to your septic tank contractor will allow you to determine what type and dosage of additives are best for your specific needs.

Contact a septic pumping contractor to learn more.