Your septic tank has a full-time job. It sorts household waste, allowing solids to sink to the bottom and become sludge, while floatable matter—such as oil or fat—rises to the top. Wastewater flows out of the tank through perforated pipes where it filters naturally in a drain field to prevent groundwater contamination. Keep this sensitive system in excellent condition for years by following these drain field and septic tank maintenance tips.

5 Septic System Maintenance Tips

1. Know Your Tank’s Location

Mark your tank’s location to keep heavy objects such as vehicles off of it. This essential task prevents excess pressure from causing cracks and leaks. A leaking septic tank can contaminate groundwater or expose your family to raw sewage if it rises to the surface. 

2. Conserve Water

Follow water-conservation practices such as spacing out washing machine use and running your dishwasher every other day; this helps the septic system, as well as your utility bills and the environment. Too much water will overwhelm the tank, possibly resulting in solids contaminating your drain field. Excess water can also cause the tank to shut down.

3. Watch What You Flush

Flush only liquid and solid waste and toilet paper down your toilets. Cigarette butts, household cleaning chemicals, coffee grounds, cotton swabs, and paper towels are among the many items that either clog the system or interfere with natural bacterial breakdowns. Avoid frequent garbage disposal use for the same reasons.

4. Divert Water Away From the Drain Field

Ensure your gutter system and other property drainage features divert rainwater away from the drain field to prevent flooding. Flooded drain fields can’t accommodate incoming wastewater, resulting in untreated water on the surface of your lawn.

5. Schedule Routine Septic Cleaning Services

Devise a pumping schedule with your local septic tank maintenance team based on factors such as the number of household members and weekly water usage. Septic pumping must be performed every two to five years to prevent tanks from becoming overloaded with sludge. Too much waste can cause plumbing backups in your home, as well as clogs and cracked tanks.

 

Prolong the life of your septic system with services from Wright’s Septic Service in Tomah, WI. The septic tank maintenance company offers over 50 years of experience and provides septic tank inspections and pumping to keep your system functional. Emergency services are also available for your peace of mind. Call (608) 372-3615 today to schedule septic tank maintenance.