Your home’s septic system requires specific care and maintenance to run smoothly. By making smart and informed choices, you can extend your system’s life and save money on repairs. Here’s what you can do to keep your septic tank in good shape, from septic tank pumping to monitoring the items you flush.

How to Care for Your Septic Tank

1. Schedule Regular Septic Tank Pumping

Most residential septic tanks need pumping every two to three years. Exactly how often yours needs this service depends on its size, how many people live in your home, and your water usage.

2. Use Less Water

If you decrease your water usage, less water will have to filter through your septic system, and your system will be able to go longer without septic tank pumping. You can add water-saving fixtures to your home, such as more efficient shower nozzles. In addition, you can encourage your family to make some small changes to their habits — for example, taking shorter showers or only running the dishwasher when it's full.

3. Be Careful About What You Flush

Only waste and toilet paper should go into your toilet, and only minimal food waste should go down your kitchen drain. Flushing paper towels, cat litter, hair, and other items can cause clogs — both in your plumbing and in the trucks used for septic tank pumping.

4. Don't Use Harsh Chemicals

Your septic system relies on bacteria in the tank to break down solid waste. Harsh chemical cleaning products or drain cleaners can kill the bacteria and stop this process. Instead, opt for natural cleaning options like vinegar. If your drains are clogged, call a plumbing repair service to unblock them.

5. Watch for Signs of a Leak

If your septic system is damaged or backed up, you may begin to notice muddy areas or standing water over your drain field or septic tank. Plants in the area may grow especially quickly. You may also notice unpleasant smells. If you spot any of these signs, you need immediate septic tank pumping or repairs.

For septic tank installation and septic tank pumping in Hilo, HI, choose Sewer Solutions. Serving the Big Island, they offer 24/7 plumbing and septic tank service from trained experts using up-to-date technology to diagnose and repair any issues. To get an estimate, call (808) 430-2323 or send a message online. You can also follow them on Instagram or Yelp.