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Buying a home with a septic tank can be intimidating, especially for first-timers. You might find its maintenance challenging when compared to municipal sewage disposal. But as with other home systems, routine upkeep plays a vital role in preventing nasty problems from cropping up. Ease your worries by learning how it works and what you can do to keep your septic system flowing smoothly.  

How a Septic System Works

The drain pipes in your home are connected to the main line, which is attached to an underground septic tank on your property. Wastewater from the showers, toilets, and kitchen drains flow into the tank and get separated naturally. Solid waste settles at the bottom where bacteria break it down into sludge. Fats and oil stay at the top to form scum, while sewage water leaches onto an adjoining drainfield through the pipes, where bacteria in the soil further decomposes remaining waste. When sludge builds up at the bottom over time, it can result in an overflowing septic tank and sewage backups.

Why Routine Maintenance Matters

septic tankPreventive maintenance is crucial to your system’s longevity and efficiency. When your septic tank fails prematurely, it can result in costly cleanups and extensive repairs. Keep in mind that tanks have to be regularly pumped at least every three years to reduce accumulated waste inside. However, the interval for emptying it will vary depending on tank size and the number of frequent users, so it can be shorter or longer. Have your septic system regularly inspected once a year to spot deficiencies and perform repairs at the onset to prevent them from becoming worse. It’s also an effective way to determine whether your tank requires pumping and cleaning.

What Can Damage the System

To avoid premature failure of your septic system, refrain from overloading it with excessive water usage. Pay particular attention to what goes down the drains, too. Diapers, baby wipes, gauze, tampons, and other plastic matter do not break down in the septic tank and remain inside, taking up space. Avoid flushing prescription drugs, detergents, drain cleaners, disinfectants, and anti-bacterial soaps down as well since these can cause a bacterial imbalance in the septic tank and slow down the decomposition process. Refrain from disposing of toxic chemicals, solvents, and pesticides to your septic system — these can contaminate your groundwater as well.

 

Keep your septic tank and its components in excellent shape with routine upkeep and inspection from the licensed professionals at B & B Riley Septic Service. Serving residents throughout Howell County, MO, for over 12 years, they provide an array of services ranging from septic pumping to grease trap cleaning. Call (417) 256-5062 for septic services or inquire via their website.

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