From washing dishes to daily bathing, households rely on a functioning plumbing system to manage everyday chores. When the home’s septic tank becomes clogged, it can be a frustrating inconvenience. There are proactive steps you can take to ensure these important devices are doing their job. Here are several helpful dos and don’ts for septic system maintenance.

Do:

Schedule periodic pumping to prevent backups.

Scum and sludge typically accumulate inside the septic tank. When accumulation reaches its limit, the solid materials can be channeled into the tank’s absorption field. The result is frequent backups and possible permanent damage to the absorption field. As part of your septic system maintenance, have the tank pumped at least every two years to eliminate scum and sludge.

Wash laundry with liquid detergent.

This type of detergent travels through septic tanks easier and more efficiently, while powdered ones contain materials that cause solids to form inside the system. Frequent use of powder detergent may plug the septic tank’s disposal area, triggering clogs.

Manage laundry throughout the week.

Large loads and multiple wash cycles cause septic systems to work harder than they should. Instead of dedicating household laundry to one day, spread the chore throughout the week to prevent the system from overworking.

Don’t:

Flush bulky items down the toilet.

Toilet paper is designed to quickly break down with water, so avoid flushing diapers, baby wipes, and feminine products down the toilet. These items are notorious for causing septic tank backups. If you experience serious issues, call a septic tank maintenance professional for emergency repairs.

Park vehicles near the drainfield.

This compacts soil on the drainfield, leading to damaged septic tank pipes. You should also keep other heavy items, like storage sheds and landscaping structures, away from the drainfield.

Pour chemicals down the drains.

Motor oil, pesticides, paint, and other chemical-based products should never be poured down drains because they contain materials that eliminate useful septic tanks bacteria that eradicate scum and sludge. Certain septic tank additives, such as drain cleaners or disinfectants, may also clog the drainfield and pollute nearby groundwater.

If you need additional assistance with your system, contact the professionals at ABC Cesspool & Septic Pumping in Kamuela, HI. For over 13 years, their team of experts has offered residents and business specialized services including septic system maintenance, cesspool cleaning, terralifts, and more. Dedicated to customer satisfaction, their trucks are equipped with the industry’s latest technology and carry over 200 feet of hosing to reach your tank. Visit their website to learn more about your septic system or call (808) 887-0766 to speak with a specialist.