Summer is a great time to have parties, barbecue, hang out in the pool, and have fun. However, all those exciting activities might put stress on your septic systems and cause unnecessary malfunctions. If you’re a homeowner, there are steps you can take to ensure your septic system remains healthy and that your summer is hassle-free.

Do:

Limit your water usage.

Having the kids home from school and hosting guests means more showering, more laundry, and more dishes to be washed. The extra water usage can overload your septic systems, causing excess water to drain onto the lawn or back into the house. Avoid “peak demand” by not running too many water systems at once and only using your washing machine when you have full loads.  

Consider pumping your septic system.

Your septic systems should be pumped every two to three years. If you’re planning on hosting a big party, make sure your tank can handle it. If you aren’t sure when you had your systems inspected last, schedule a pump before the party to be on the safe side.

Landscape carefully.

Summer is the perfect time to do some gardening or renovate the yard. However, some flowers, plants, and vegetables have deep roots and should be kept at least 30 feet from the drain field, so they don’t interfere with the lines or damage the tank.

Don’t:

Misuse your lawn.

Always know where your septic system is located. If heavy rain or sprinklers flood the septic system's drain field, it might overflow onto your yard. If you’re hosting a party, make sure your guests don’t park on the lawn—the weight of their cars can damage the tank and septic lines.

Flush your garbage.

Flushing trash down the toilet is fast, but unhealthy for your septic systems. If it isn’t toilet paper, it shouldn’t be flushed. When coffee grounds, cooking grease, leftover food, and diapers are flushed, they clog the drains and make your septic systems less efficient.  

If you need assistance with your septic systems this summer, reach out to County Sanitary Service. Their EPA certified technicians have been servicing Chillicothe, OH, and the surrounding areas for over 60 years. In that time, they have provided residential, commercial, and industrial clients with septic tank cleaning, pumping, and repair with an emphasis on customer satisfaction. To schedule an appointment, call (740) 772-1189. For more information on their other services, including drain and sewer cleaning, visit their website.