If you have a septic system on your property, you can take pride in knowing that your household waste management system is self-sufficient. However, you’ll also have to take care to keep it in good condition. Get on the right track with your septic maintenance routine with the following do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Conserve water.

Unlike municipal water systems, your septic tank can only process a limited amount of waste. If it gets too full, parts inside the drain field may sustain damage, or waste could back up into your home.

Conserve water by timing your showers, turning the water off when you brush your teeth, and investing in low-flow plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Keep weight off the drain field.

After it leaves the tank, wastewater moves into the drain field, where it slowly trickles out through small holes and is filtered back into the dirt. If you park on top of this area of your septic system, it will compress the soil, making it impossible for water to drain. This will trap wastewater in your septic system and possibly break the drain field.

Don’t:

Flush non-biodegradables.

When most waste enters the septic tank, it’s slowly broken down by bacteria. However, these bacteria are incapable of breaking down non-biodegradable items, such as tampons, wipes, and dental floss. Similarly, grease will form a thick layer at the top of the drain field, where it may solidify and create a blockage. Dispose of these items in the trash, not down the drain.

Neglect the pumping schedule.

While your septic tank works hard to break down waste, it can’t dissolve everything. Over time, a layer of sludge will form at the bottom of the tank, which must be forcibly pumped out by a septic maintenance crew. This process usually needs to happen every three years, but the frequency may be affected by your water consumption, the tank size, the items you flush, and the recent rainfall patterns. 

If your tank needs to be inspected, repaired, or pumped, turn to J&M Cesspool and Septic Pumping Services LLC of Kaneohe, HI. They have over 15 years of experience providing septic maintenance services to local residents and business owners. Thanks to their 24/7 emergency support line, you’ll never have to live with septic issues for long. To learn more about their equipment and expertise, visit their website. Call (808) 753-1411 to schedule an estimate for septic maintenance today.