If your household depends on a septic system to get rid of waste, it’s up to you to keep it in good condition. Maintaining your septic tank can help you avoid plumbing issues and extend the lifespan of your system. Here are some do’s and don'ts of septic tank maintenance.

Do:

Schedule regular pumping.

Sludge will naturally accumulate on the bottom of your septic tank over time. If this solid waste isn’t removed through regular septic pumping, it can back up into your home or flood the drain field. This can result in major plumbing problems and pose health risks.

How often you get your septic system pumped will depend on the tank size and amount of usage. Generally, these systems should be pumped every two to three years.

Use water efficiently.

Using too much water can overload a septic system and reduce its lifespan. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of how much water you use every day. Consider installing high-efficiency plumbing fixtures and spreading out your laundry loads over multiple days.

Don’t:

Pour grease down the drain.

Dumping leftover cooking grease into your kitchen drain might not seem like a big deal at first. However, grease solidifies once it hits the surface of your pipes and can build up in your septic tank. Remember to put leftover grease in a container and throw it away in the trash.

Flush anything except toilet paper.

A toilet isn’t a trash can, but some homeowners treat theirs as such. Flushing everyday items, including floss, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products, can cause clogs and septic tanks to fill up too quickly, increasing the risk of sewage backups. To avoid these problems, don’t flush anything except toilet paper.

 

 

If you require septic system maintenance, turn to the professionals at Great Bear Septic Service. Serving New York’s Westchester, Putnam, and Southern Dutchess counties, they have more than 6 years of experience in the field and always put their customers first. These professionals provide a variety of different septic services, from pumping to grease trap cleaning. For more information about their services, call (845) 621-0250 or visit their website.