When your septic system needs repairs, you’ll notice unpleasant symptoms in and around your home. Fortunately, you can avoid problems, such as smelly sewage backups or pooling water on your lawn, by following a handful of easy maintenance tips. Here’s a quick guide to caring for your septic system.

3 Septic System Upkeep Tips

1. Watch What You Flush Down Drains

Certain items should not go down your drains because they can clog your pipes, causing backflow and flooding your home. In your kitchen, avoid putting cooking oils, fibrous vegetables, coffee grounds, or meat bones down your sink or garbage disposals. In your bathrooms, don’t flush sanitary napkins, cotton balls, bandages, or medications down the toilet.

2. Avoid Using Chemicals & Cleaners

When you clean your sinks, tubs, or showers, use all-natural products. Many commercial cleaning products contain harsh chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid, which can corrode your pipes and septic tank. You should also avoid putting additives into your septic system, as chemical compounds and enzymes can disturb the balance of healthy bacteria.

3. Schedule Routine Septic Tank Inspections

You’ll increase your system’s life span by making regular appointments with septic system inspection professionals. Schedule annual inspections to monitor fluid levels, check for cracks in the tank, and inspect the drainage lines. Your contractor will also pump your tank—generally once every three to five years, depending on your home’s size. 

Keep your septic system in good shape with inspection and maintenance services from the professionals at American On Site. For over 15 years, this locally owned business has provided septic tank installation, pumping, cleaning, and repair services to clients throughout Clackamas and Yamhill County, OR. Call them at (503) 829-7600 for Molalla or (503) 538-8808 for Newberg today to speak with a representative about booking an inspection appointment. Visit them online to read reviews and learn more about their services.