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If you rely on a septic tank to dispose of household waste rather than a municipal sewer system, you must do your part to keep it in proper condition. Regular maintenance is required for preventing backups and damages that could result in repairs or the need for a new septic installation. It’s essential you understand how to suitably care for your system with these crucial do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Have your tank inspected and pumped regularly.

It’s best to have your septic system inspected by a professional once a year to ensure everything is operating smoothly and efficiently. This will allow for early detection of any problems so they can be fixed right away. Septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years, but this time frame could vary depending on how many people are using the system and the size of the tank.

Practice water conservation.

septic installationToo much water use is a common reason systems fail and homeowners must invest in new septic installations, so it’s important to practice water conservation to extend the lifespan of your drain field. You can limit the amount of water your household uses by only running full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher, installing high-efficiency toilets and low-flow fixtures, and repairing plumbing leaks immediately.

Don’t:

Put chemicals down the drain or flush anything but toilet paper.

Clogged drains are a plumbing issue the majority of homeowners have to deal with at least once. While it may seem natural to turn to chemical cleaners for a quick fix, pouring these down the drain too often can cause serious damage to a septic system. Over time, the chemicals will kill off the bacteria a septic tank needs to break down solid waste. Additionally, nothing should be flushed down the toilet aside from toilet paper and human waste to keep the tank from filling up too fast.

Park or plant anything over the drain field. 

Heavy machinery should never be parked or driven over your drain field because you could crush the piping or tank beneath it, requiring a new septic installation. You also want to make sure you don’t plant anything other than grass in this area and trees are planted a far away to keep their roots from growing into the system.

 

These maintenance tips can help keep your septic system working for decades; however, should you need a new septic installation, the team at Rita’s Equipment Rental & Trash Disposal can be of assistance. For over 10 years, they’ve provided commercial and residential clients across Kauai, HI, with a variety of services, including land clearing, demolition, and trash hauling. This locally owned and operated company is fully licensed and insured, and their staff is trained in the latest OSHA and NIOSH regulations to operate earth moving and demolition equipment. Send a message online for a free estimate, or call (808) 332-8339 to schedule an appointment.

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