Your septic tank plays a crucial role in your home by handling your household waste. However, it’s more sensitive than you may think. Damage can have serious consequences and be costly to fix, which is why you want to take steps to properly maintain the system throughout the year. Below are a few do’s and don’ts to follow. 

Do:

Watch what goes down the drain.

Flushing the wrong items down the drain is the leading cause of septic tank issues. Foods and byproducts like grease, flour, and pasta can cause serious clogs. Gradually, pressure will build up behind them and they’ll burst. Other non-soluble products like paints and chemicals can make it into the septic tank, disrupt the waste treatment bacteria, and taint the drain field. Always think carefully before you flush something down the drain.

Schedule yearly inspections.

Many homeowners forget to schedule septic tank inspections until it’s too late. Generally, you should schedule an inspection every twelve months, and the average septic tank needs to be pumped every two to three years. Sticking to this schedule will prevent overflows and other problems that can damage property and plumbing system.

Don’t:

Build on top of the tank.

If you build over your tank or drain field, you can disrupt septic function. The extra weight of a home addition or driveway can compress the drain field and keep treated water from leaving your property. You may also damage the tank and sewer line. Avoid planting anything here as well; thirsty roots can make their way to your septic tank and break the pipes.

Use chemical cleaners.

You may be tempted to use chemical cleaners between inspections. However, the chemicals can interfere with the bacteria in your septic tank. Waste may not be properly treated, and non-soluble chemicals may contaminate your drain field. As such, it’s best to stick to professional inspections and treatments when it comes to septic care.

Whether you need a septic tank inspection or pumping, turn to Earnest Well Drilling Inc. As a family company that has been in business for over 90 years, they provide the Milford, NE, area with comprehensive septic and well services. Their team can assist with septic installations, well repairs, and drilling, and you can explore their full list of services on their website. Call (402) 761-2281 to speak with a representative.