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Being a homeowner is rewarding, but with it brings responsibilities.  It is easy to remember to maintain the components that can be seen;  paint, roofing, windows, flooring.  However, homeowners often neglect to maintain their wastewater treatment systems until there are problems that often results in costly repairs.

So what can you do as a homeowner to maintain your system? One of the first things you can do is be mindful of what is being flushed down the toilet.  Only biodegradable things should be flushed; human waste and minimal amounts of toilet paper.  Items such as tampons. sanitary napkins, baby wipes/personal hygiene wipes (even if they are labeled flushable), condoms, kitchen napkins/paper towels should never be flushed, but properly disposed of in a garbage receptacle.

You should also be mindful of what is making its way down any drain in your home.  Household cleaning products, oils, paint, paint thinners, medications all can wreak havoc in a wastewater treatment system.  Not only do many of these substances contaminate the groundwater, but they may contain non-biodegradable fillers that can clog system components.  Many cleaning products kill the "good" bacteria in a septic tank that is necessary for proper functioning.

Keeping excess water from entering your septic system is another thing a homeowner should be mindful of.  Be certain all gutters and downspouts are diverting rainwater away from your septic system.  Check all toilets to be sure they are not running and check faucets to be sure they are not dripping.  Turn off water while brushing your teeth or in between washing dishes.  Think about spreading your washing machine use throughout the week rather than doing it all on one day. Any of these will put unnecessary, excess water into your septic system.  

A  septic system will efficiently handle the amount of water it was designed to, but too much water entering the system will cause problems like pushing solid particles out into your leach lines or flooding your  system.  Take the time to add septic maintenance to your homeowner's to do list.

If you do find yourself facing a non-functioning septic system, be sure to call Zinks Septic Solutions at (315) 359-0733 to discuss effective wastewater treatment for your home or to schedule a septic system evaluation today. You can also visit their website for more information.

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