Approximately 25 million households in America rely on septic tanks to treat their household wastewater, according to the EPA. Many of those homeowners experience problems with their septic systems over time, and the cause is often unintentional misuse. If you own a septic tank, try avoiding these common mistakes.

Mistakes Many Owners Make With Septic Systems

1. They Don’t Schedule Routine Septic Pumping

Septic tanks need to be cleaned by a professional every three to five years to avoid overflowing. Exactly when your septic tank should be pumped depends on the size of your household and the tank. If you’re not certain how long it has been since your tank was last cleaned, a technician can measure the amount of sludge and scum.

2. They Use Too Much Water at Once

Too much activity can put a strain on your septic system. By spreading your laundry out over days, limiting the number of showers daily, and not running multiple water appliances at once, you can avoid the unpleasant experience of a backup. 

3. They Pour Harsh Cleaning Chemicals Down the Drains

Products containing chlorine or bleach can disrupt the ecology of your septic system. Septic tanks depend on a specific formula of bacteria to naturally treat wastewater, but harsh cleaners can kill healthy bacteria and cause the tank to fail.

4. They Dispose of The Wrong Materials

Some homeowners mistakenly flush items that can lead to clogs or disrupt the bacteria in their septic tanks. Never flush such items as coffee grounds, orange peels, paper towels, cigarette butts, bandages, and dead fish. They can dilute or kill the healthy bacteria your tank needs to function.

Homeowners in Corbin, KY, concerned about their septic system health can rely on Dugger’s Septic Tank Cleaning for septic tank cleaning and pumping. They specialize in septic installations, repairs, replacements, and pumping and cleaning. Call (606) 528-3893 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.