Many rural homeowners rely on a septic system to process the waste generated in the home. This system brings waste from the main drain line to the septic tank, which uses bacteria and enzymes to break down solid matter and releases the effluent into the leach field. However, if there’s a problem with any of these components, the whole system can falter or fail. Use the following guide to prevent or address any septic issues.

Do:

Schedule regular septic tank pumping.

On average, most tanks need to be pumped every three to five years, but that figure changes depending on how much waste is generated in your home. If you see pooling water in the lawn, slow drains, or foul odors around the property, have a professional inspect your system sooner.

Install high-efficiency water fixtures.

Using low-flow showerheads, sink faucets, and toilets can help you to use less water during your day-to-day routines. That means there’s less waste that needs to be processed by the septic system and a lower likelihood that the leach field will become overly saturated.

Divert water runoff.

Be sure to angle your gutter system’s downspouts away from the septic tank and leach field. Failing to do so can flood the field and prevent the tank from draining properly.

Don’t:

Use chemical drain cleaners.

If your home’s pipes become clogged, avoid using any store-bought chemical solutions. Otherwise, these chemicals will kill off the bacteria that the septic system needs to process the waste.

Place heavy structures over the tank.

Even though the tank is buried underground, it’s still susceptible to damage. This becomes more likely if you build a structure over it or park heavy vehicles in the drain field. The added weight puts unnecessary pressure on the tank, which can cause cracking or soil shifting that can loosen the pipes.

Plant trees near the tank.

A tree’s root system is able to detect moisture in the ground and will grow towards it to get the nutrients it needs. If you have one that is too close to the tank, these roots may penetrate the tank or pipes, which can require major septic system repairs.

 

Keep your home’s septic system operating efficiently by working with the experts at Queen’s Septic Tank Service in High Point, NC. Whenever you’re experiencing issues, their highly trained team will perform a septic tank inspection to diagnose the problem. Once found, they provide fast and reliable repairs to get you up and running again. Schedule your inspection by calling (336) 434-1260 or learn more about their services online.