The tank only makes up one part of your septic system. Much of the work is left to the drain field. This section is underground, and it consists of a network of pipes that filter the waste after it has been treated by the tank, sending water back into the surrounding soil. If this area of your septic system gets clogged, you could experience issues, including backups. Use the following tips to maintain the drain field. 

3 Tips for Maintaining Your Drain Field

1. Conserve Water

As your family washes dishes, does laundry, takes baths, and brushes their teeth, they use a significant amount of water. Since all this water is funneled to your septic system, it can overload the drain field, damaging the pipes. To prevent this, use water conservation tactics like installing low-flow faucets and showerheads, shortening your showers, and fixing leaks immediately.

2. Mind the Roots

While you’ll want to fill your backyard or front lawn with flowers, shrubs, and trees, it’s crucial to avoid planting them over your drain field. However, you can plant grass on top, as it has shallow roots that won’t disrupt the network of pipes. However, deeper root systems, like shrubs and trees, could bend or even crack parts of the drain field, allowing wastewater to escape before it’s been filtered properly.

3. Park in the Driveway or Street

If you put a heavy load on top of the grass directly above the drain field, it could crush the pipes, breaking them or preventing water from escaping. To prevent this, only park in your driveway or on the street, and keep heavy dumpsters, sheds, and other loads off of your lawn. To remember exactly where your septic system is located, have your contractor mark the four corners with stakes.

When you need help with septic system maintenance, turn to American On Site in Clackamas County, OR. They have over 15 years of experience providing repairs for tanks and drain fields, as well as replacing and installing septic systems. When your tank needs pumping, call them at (503) 829-7600 to schedule an appointment. Visit the website to learn more about their trained and certified team.