Performing regular septic maintenance is critical to ensuring your septic tank is running smoothly and any failures are detected early. Along with getting occasional tank cleanings and emptying your system, caring for your tank means following a few basic care tips to avoid damaging your system. Learn what to do and to avoid in the septic system care guide below.

3 Pieces of Advice to Follow to Care for Your Septic Tank

1. Watch What You Flush 

Septic tanks contain bacteria that digest the solid waste that comes into it. These bacteria are delicate living organisms, so non-organic waste and chemicals entering your system can disrupt their ecosystem.

Bacteria can only consume organic waste, so never flush down grease, cigarette butts, diapers, feminine hygiene products, cat litter, coffee grounds, tissues, or wipes. Don’t pour chemicals like drain cleaners and bleach into sinks and toilets, which can kill your tank’s bacteria and even require new septic installation.

2. Know the Volume of Your Tank

Every septic system comes with a recommended pumping schedule in its product manual. Read your manual to check how often to empty your tank or arrange for septic maintenance. If you have family members who take long showers or install new appliances that use water, such as washing machines and hot tubs, plan to pump your tank more frequently.

3. Contact a Professional if Issues Arise

If you notice odors coming from your drains or liquid bubbling in your leech field, don’t wait to call a septic maintenance professional. Delaying an inspection in these situations can aggravate a problem and result in health hazards or costly repairs and reinstallations.

If you need septic maintenance, contact Powers Liquid Waste Management in St. Croix County, WI, for an inspection. With over 65 years of experience in the industry, they’ve seen it all, and provide customized plans for septic cleaning, filter cleaning, water testing, and emergency services. Call (715) 246-5738 or visit their website for information on their offerings for events and constructions sites.