A septic tank stores and treats waste, ensuring that it’s safely contained until a professional pumps it. While this system is crucial to carrying harmful waste away from the home, it’s vulnerable to cracks and clogs if it’s not cared for properly. To avoid sewage backups and stress to the system, follow these do’s and don’ts of septic tank maintenance.

Do:

Schedule regular pumping.

Generally, septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years, depending on the size of the tank and the number of people residing in the home. If a tank is not pumped regularly, then sewage may back up into the home or drain field as the tank overflows. Raw sewage is a biohazard and can make people sick if they come in contact with it. Slow drains and toilets, along with a foul odor, are signs that the tank is getting to capacity.

Conserve water.

When you have a septic system, all the gray water from showers, laundry, and dishwashing end up in the tank as well. If you do all household tasks on a Saturday, for example, this puts a huge stress on the septic system. Try to space out household jobs requiring water, and when possible, opt for water-efficient appliances to conserve usage. Take shorter showers, and don’t run water while brushing your teeth. High levels of gray water use will fill the tank faster and require more frequent pumping.

Don't:

Flush items other than toilet paper.

Toys, diapers, sanitary products, wet wipes, food, and general garbage shouldn’t go down the toilet. Since these items don’t decompose, they’ll clog the pipes and fill the tank faster. Some of those items can harm the balance of bacteria in the tank as well, throwing off the decomposition process. Only flush toilet paper and make sure everyone in your household knows not to flush harmful chemical products, including bleach.

Park on the drain field.

The area over the tank, or the drain/leach field, should be kept clear of heavy objects such as boats, RVs, and cars. Avoid driving over the area as well, or building large, permanent structures there. Although the tank is made of concrete, heavy items parked on top could place unnecessary stress on the system and cause it to collapse. 

If you need to pump your septic system in the Uncasville, CT, area, choose P & H Construction and Septic Service. This full-service company offers all aspects of septic tank maintenance for residential and commercial properties. They can perform system inspections and testing as well. Call (860) 848-8507 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about their services.