Proper maintenance can prolong the lifespan of all the mechanical systems that keep your home functioning, including your septic system. If you depend on a septic tank to dispose of your household waste, there are a few measures you can take to keep it running efficiently for years. Here are a few maintenance tips to prevent your tank from failing sooner than expected.

How to Prolong the Life of a Septic System

1. Understand Your System

To understand when you might need to schedule pumping or maintenance, know the specifications of your system, such as the exact location of your tank and drain field, their storage capacity, and the last date of pumping. Keep documents such as blueprints, permits, and servicing records on file to provide a tank inspector as requested, and consider installing risers on your yard to help them access your tank.

2. Avoid Nearby Disturbance

Pools, patios, decks, and driveways are heavy and can compact the soil around a septic tank, damaging its structure. Deep-rooted plants also tend to invade tanks and pipes in search of water, so plant only ground covers and shrubs that have short roots to prevent them from disturbing your pipes.

3. Watch What Goes Down the Drain

Your septic tank works by naturally breaking down organic matter, so avoid flushing items that don’t decompose, such as wipes, tissues, tampons, cotton balls, dental floss, and cat litter. Medicines and harsh cleaners can also kill the bacteria that break down the solid matter in your system, so never pour chemicals down your drains.     

4. Keep up with Routine Pumping

Septic systems require regular pumping to get rid of the sludge buildup at the bottom. Your pumping schedule depends on your tank capacity and usage, but getting it done every 2 to 4 years is enough for most homes. Your septic contractor can help you determine the ideal pumping schedule for your system.

5. Perform Yearly Inspections

At least once a year, have a septic professional inspect your system for any signs of wear or pipe damage. Identifying problems early on allows experts to repair issues before they disturb your family or cause extensive damage to your tank.

Keep your septic system running longer with the help of Martin’s Septic Service in Milledgeville and Eatonton, GA. Serving communities around Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair for over 15 years, they offer efficient and certified septic pumping, maintenance, and repair, along with other related services. Visit their website for a full list of services, or call (478) 452-8272 to receive a free estimate.