If your house is connected to a septic system, it is most prudent to ensure it works through regular maintenance. However, many homeowners often neglect such systems when something goes wrong. Negligence in maintenance may not only result in pretty costly repairs but also entail grave risks for your family’s health. Rooter-Man Plumbing is here to provide quality service at an affordable cost. Some of the top septic services include repair, pumping and cleaning.
Tips in Maintaining Septic Tanks
1. Have your septic tank pumped out regularly.
One of the most important aspects of septic maintenance is to arrange regular pumping. It can be every two or three years for small tanks or perhaps more frequent if there are many occupants in a home, depending on the size of your tank. The average number, however, is every 3-5 years. This removes accumulated solid waste from the septic tank, reduces solid buildup within the system which can cause blockages that could lead to potential back-ups and costly repairs.
2. Be Water-Thrifty
Too much wastewater can put a strain on your septic tank and lead to system failure. Monitoring your water use is essential in having a functional septic system. Water conservation will also reduce your utility bills. Here are some easy ways to save water:
Fix leaks: A single dripping faucet or running toilet can waste many gallons of water.
Install high-efficiency appliances: With the advent of technology, there are high-efficiency appliances that use less water that can be considered. For instance, one may consider buying ENERGY STAR-rated appliances.
Install low-flow fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators should be considered for installation.
Take quicker showers: Shortening showers will indeed save more water.
3. Schedule Frequent Inspections and Maintenance
Don’t get caught off guard by a septic problem. Hire a professional septic company to inspect your system at least every three years. Frequent inspections will help locate little problems before they become expensive repairs. Regular maintenance is the key to early detection and preventing sudden system failures.
4. Handle Cleaners and Chemicals with Care
The products you use in your home can make or break your septic system. Harsh chemicals and extreme antibacterial soaps will kill off the good bacteria that break down your waste inside the tank. Even worse, these items will corrode your pipes and contaminate the environment. When you can, a good idea is to go with cleaning products that are safe for septic systems. Always read through the labels and look for eco-friendly alternatives that’ll help in keeping your system safe.
5. Do Not Use Your Toilet as a Garbage Disposal
Your toilet is not a disposal unit. Non-biodegradable items such as wipes, sanitary products, condoms, and diapers cause massive blockages. When these things are flushed down the toilet, they can also damage your septic. Dispose of trash like these in the proper wastebasket it belongs to. Remember, the only things that should go down the toilet are human waste and toilet paper.
6. Septic Tank Lids Must Be Kept Secure
Keep the lids to the septic tank closed and intact. Open and damaged lids invite safety hazards, especially for children and pets, into your yard; they also admit additional rainwater into the system that may cause overloading. Take a moment to ensure the lids are tightly sealed regularly.
7. Be Mindful of Your Food Waste Disposal
Be careful with disposal of food waste: avoid washing down large quantities of food down the drain as this burdens your septic tank. A compost bin for organic waste is a great addition. Other than helping to ease the burden on the septic system, it is a great way to recycle kitchen scraps.
8. Contact Rooter Man Plumbing for Professional Septic Services
Proper maintenance of the septic tank will save you from costly repairs besides the discomfort caused by system failure. A well-cared-for septic system can go through many years, thus giving you peace of mind and saving money. Whether you are facing certain problems with your septic system or whether it is time for routine maintenance, never feel shy to call Rooter Man Plumbing, as our team of experts is here to assure smooth operation of your septic system efficiently.