If you rely on a septic system to remove waste from your home, you probably have a basic understanding of how it functions and what happens when something goes wrong. Some homeowners wonder whether they’re doing enough to protect the equipment and extend its life span. The following tips will help you protect the tank, plumbing, and surrounding soil, so you can be confident that the system is working properly.

Drain Fields Are Good Indicators of Septic System Health

Opening the septic tank to inspect it is dangerous, so it should be left to the professionals. If you think there is a problem with the system but aren’t sure it’s time to call for help, walk across your yard. If the ground is soft and muddy even though it hasn’t rained recently, your drain field may be oversaturated. This happens when the tank contains too much waste, forcing liquids into the soil. Decreasing your water usage helps you avoid septic system floods by restoring the balance of liquid and solid waste.

Plants Can Help Your System

Keeping the area above your drain field free from vegetation, furniture, and vehicles is a simple way to prevent septic damage due to external pressure. However, certain types of plants can help the system do its job. Varieties with shallow roots, like Echinacea, prevent soil erosion and absorb water and nutrients without penetrating the tank. This helps the system perform properly and creates a more hospitable environment for the naturally occurring bacteria that breaks down waste.

Watch What You Flush

Toilets and septic tanks are built to handle many types of waste, but some items your family uses every day are harmful. Common household products like diapers, cat litter, and baby wipes can create clogs, leading to costly repairs. Even cleaning products like bleach and detergent can cause problems because they upset the tank’s ecosystem, preventing the bacteria from doing its job. If it’s not toilet paper, don’t flush it!

If following these helpful tips isn’t enough to protect your septic system from clogs or leaks, the team at A A & A Drain Cleaning Dalton, GA, is ready to help. They provide a variety of services, from septic installation and pumping to drain cleaning to keep clients’ homes sanitary. Call (706) 226-1267 to schedule service or visit their website to learn more about what they do.