If your home relies on a septic system for waste management, it’s essential to keep an eye on its condition. You want to maintain your indoor plumbing while also safeguarding your landscaping against potential damage. If it begins to malfunction, a leak or blockage could turn your lawn into a swampy, toxic mess. To prevent one of many worst-case scenarios, be aware of the following do’s and don’ts and check your system daily.

Do:

Practice water conservation.

While you might associate your septic system with the toilet, it’s important to remember that all your plumbing fixtures—from the kitchen sink to the washing machine—empty into the tank. To avoid overloading the system, install low-flow fixtures on your showerheads and faucets. Also, repair leaks as soon as you notice them. Try to limit using your dishwasher and other water-using appliances until they are full.

Cover the system in grass.

While the rest of your landscape is fair game, it’s vital to ensure the only thing you plant over the septic system is grass. This plant is known for its shallow roots, so they won’t extend down and rupture the tank or disrupt the drain field. If you have trees in your yard, make sure they’re planted as far away from the septic system as they are tall. This will prevent the roots from growing too far down and damaging any of the system’s components.

Don’t:

Flush anything but toilet paper.

Septic systems break down waste organically, with the help of bacteria, which is a much more delicate process than that used by municipal sewer systems. Therefore, anything besides septic-safe toilet paper could result in clogs. Throw dental floss, Q-tips, bandages, and feminine products in the trash, not in the toilet.

Park cars on the septic system.

First, if you’re not sure of the exact location of your septic system, contact a professional to mark its perimeter with stakes. Then, make sure all family members and visitors know not to park in this area. The immense weight of the vehicles could crush the delicate network that creates the drain field, as well as break pipes.

If you’re looking for more helpful septic system tips, turn to S & S Pumping of Forsyth, MO. They have over 16 years of experience providing septic tank installation and pumping services to homeowners throughout the Ozarks area. If you ever run into trouble, you can count on their 24-hour service to come to the rescue. To learn more about their services, including grease trap cleaning, visit their website, or call (417) 546-2390 to make an appointment.