If you recently upgraded or installed a new septic system, you most likely want to extend the life of your investment. There are a few necessary steps to take to keep the system efficient, clean, and safe on your property. Below are five septic maintenance steps. 

How to Preserve Your Septic System

1. Maintain Water Efficiency

Once you have a new septic system in place, installing efficient water appliances and fixtures, and practicing good habits will go a long way. Consider high-efficiency toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines to control water usage. Take shorter showers and don’t run dish and laundry loads until they’re full. Also, ensure that there are no leaks in the pipes, including in the basement and outside faucets.

2. Flush the Right Items

Be conscientious about what you flush down the toilet. Only flush biodegradable items so that bacteria in your septic tank can break everything down properly. This also ensures it will not get clogged with inorganic items. Never flush diapers, sanitary products, and paper towels. 

3. Watch the Kitchen Sink

Avoid pouring cooking grease and starchy vegetables into your kitchen sink or garbage disposal. When grease cools, it hardens into blobs that can clog the pipes. Foods like potatoes, rice, and pasta expand when in contact with water, which also leads to unnecessary amounts of waste in your system. Throw these items in the trash or compost them instead.

4. Care for the Drain Field

The drain field is a necessary part of your septic system. Don’t build any structures or drive over it. While planting grass keeps soil in the area strong, avoid planting trees with large roots that can disrupt how the drain field filters waste and water.

5. Call for Pumping & Maintenance

Make sure you call for septic pumping every three to five years and have your septic maintenance team inspect each component and its function. Annual inspections for electrical or mechanical components will ensure these parts are not malfunctioning and causing a backup or clog in your tank and drain field.

For professional, reliable septic service throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island, trust P&H Construction and Septic Service. Located in Uncasville, CT, the certified technicians bring more than 35 years of experience to every septic system for both residential and commercial customers. Their services include new installations as well as septic pumping and repair when your tank and drain field need attention. Call (860) 848-8507 to schedule an appointment or visit them online for more on their offerings.