Your septic tank should last for decades. If you don’t properly care for it, however, it will have a much shorter lifespan. Here are three tips for maintaining your septic tank and prolonging its longevity.

How to Maintain Your Septic System

1. Practice Proper Waste Disposal

Everything you put down your garbage disposal, toilet, sink, shower, and bathtub ends up in your septic system, and certain kinds of waste can cause problems.

Items you should never put down your drains include cooking grease or oil, feminine hygiene products, disposable wipes, condoms, diapers, cat litter, pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals such as gasoline, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. These products cause harm to the bacteria in the tank and could result in clogs.

2. Use Less Water 

Using too much water takes a toll on your septic system, as it forces it to work harder to process the liquids. To reduce your water usage, repair leaky faucets and toilets promptly, install low-flow fixtures for showerheads and faucets, don’t run dishwashers and washing machines at the same time, take shorter showers, and turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving. 

3. Schedule Regular Inspections & Pumping

To avoid costly breakdowns that reduce the tank’s lifespan, schedule regular inspections from a septic tank professional. Most tanks should be inspected at least every three years. During this service, the technician will check for signs of wear that could result in malfunctions, such as clogs in the drain field. 

You should also have the tank pumped every three to five years, depending on how many people live in your household and the size of the unit. Removing the solid contents built-up in the tank will prevent overflow and backups.

To keep your septic tank in working order for many years, turn to Scott Robbins Septic Tank Service in Denton, NC. For more than 20 years, this family-owned and -operated company has provided septic system inspections, installations, pumping, and repairs. The trusted team offers 24/7 emergency service so you never have to wait for urgent assistance. Visit them online to learn more about their work, and call (336) 880-0859 to schedule an appointment today.