Regular care is an essential part of maintaining the septic tank. Without it, the system could fail prematurely, which can cause serious problems inside and outside the home. There are a few steps homeowners can take to maintain the condition of the tank. Here are a few tips to help. 

5 Ways to Maintain the Septic Tank

1. Dispose of Waste Properly

One of the most common causes of septic failure is improper waste disposal. Don’t flush anything down the toilet except human waste and toilet paper, and be mindful of what you rinse down the sink drain. Avoid putting grease, fat, coffee grounds, bones, and fibrous materials down the drain. These might get caught in the system and cause stubborn blockages.

2. Inspect the Drain Field Regularly

The drain field plays a vital role in the overall operation of the septic system. Keep an eye on it for signs of trouble, such as bright green grass or damp, spongy ground. These may indicate septic tank flooding, which requires immediate attention. Avoid planting on, driving over, or otherwise disturbing this area, as well.

3. Limit Septic System Usage

The more you use household appliances, the more water you push into the septic tank. This increases the odds of a flood in the drain field and premature clogging of the tank. Prevent this by installing high-efficiency appliances that consume less water overall.

4. Install a Filter

Older septic tanks may not have filters, which is problematic. The filter is located near the tank’s exit pipe and is designed to prevent solid matter from traveling to the drain field. Sometimes, certain particles aren’t properly separated in the tank. The filter can do this job and prevent them from clogging the drain field and causing premature failure.

5. Schedule Tank Maintenance

Septic pumping is recommended at least once every three years. However, this largely depends on the age and condition of the system, and your technician may suggest more appointments as needed. If the tank isn’t pumped regularly, it will eventually overflow into the drain field, which will lead to harmful backups inside the house and flooding of the drain field.

Proper maintenance can make a big difference in how well a septic tank performs. If you’re a resident in Lake Oconee, Lake Sinclair, Eatonton, and surrounding areas in Georgia, trust the experts at Martin’s Septic Service. They’ll inspect, diagnose, and maintain your system, so it works for many years. Whether you’re experiencing septic system problems or want to schedule a checkup, they will assist. Visit their website or call (478) 452-8272 for more information about their services.