If your home features a septic system, you have a bit more responsibility to claim for your household’s waste management routine. According to P & H Septic Service, of Uncasville, CT, there are many habits you can change and implement to ensure your system runs smoothly. After servicing local clients for over 35 years, they offer the following pointers for prolonging the lifespan of your septic system.

How to Prevent a Septic System From Failing

1. Go Easy on Chemicals

Many cleaning solutions contain harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and chlorine. In small amounts, or when diluted with a significant amount of water, these chemicals are not harmful, but large or concentrated amounts can eat away at septic systems. Therefore, if you’re flushing mop water down the toilet, do so in increments.

2. Don’t Pour Oil Down the Drain

Many cooking greases solidify once they cool. If you pour oil from a pan down your sink or garbage disposal, it will harden and adhere to the side of your pipes, causing a blockage that threatens your septic system. In extreme cases, this may result in sewage backups.

3. Ditch the Garbage Disposal for Composting

If you have a septic system, avoid using your garbage disposal as often as possible. Small, soft pieces of food are okay to put down once in a while, but fibrous foods or large quantities will get caught in the blades and overwhelm your septic tank. It’s crucial for there to be a balance of solids and liquids within septic tanks, so even it out by composting instead.

4. Schedule Regular Pumping Service

Over time, solids inevitably accumulate in septic tanks. If the pile gets too high, it will clog the entry and exit points to the reservoir and throw your entire system off balance. To prevent this, schedule a pumping appointment every two to three years. When your tank is clear, your system can start over with a clean slate.

For more helpful information on septic system maintenance, turn to the experts at P & H Septic Service. They will tell you how to remedy your tank’s current issues and prevent future problems from arising in the first place. For more information on their septic skills, visit the website. You can also call (860) 848-8507 to speak with a friendly team member.