Your septic system manages the waste exiting your household, which flows into the tank for separation. Solid waste sinks to the bottom, while oil, fat, and grease rise to the top, creating scum. Wastewater leaves the tank via perforated pipes where it filters through the soil into a designated drain field before getting recycled as groundwater. If you are new to septic system ownership, here’s what you need to do to maintain it.

How to Care for Your Septic System

1. Don’t Skip Septic Pumping Services

Request septic pumping every two to five years based on the tank’s size and how many people live in your home. Keep a cleaning record to help you schedule timely pumping services and provide new owners with a maintenance log if you sell your home.

Routine cleaning prevents the tank from becoming overloaded with solids, which can cause it to crack and leak into your soil. It can also cause sewage backups in your household.

2. Conserve Water

Stay aware of weekly water usage to reduce your carbon footprint and avoid overwhelming your septic system. Too much liquid entering the tank can contribute to tank cracks and leaks or cause solids to poison the drain field. If possible, avoid running the dishwasher, washing machine, and shower at the same time.

3. Stay Mindful About What You Flush

Flush only toilet paper instead of clogging agents such as feminine hygiene products, paper towels, cotton swabs, coffee grounds, and cigarette butts. Also, watch what enters your drains to keep your pipes and tank clog-free.

For example, discard oil, fat, and grease in the trash instead of putting it into your garbage disposal. These food byproducts harden in cold temperatures to cause plumbing backup problems.

4. Mark the Tank & Pipe Areas

Use stakes or other small signs to designate septic system components in your yard so you don’t park or plant over them. Vehicles parked on the ground above a septic tank can cause it to crack, while plants, shrubs, and trees with extensive root systems will infiltrate the tank and the perforated pipes, resulting in clogs.

5. Avoid Using Tank Cleaners

Never use tank additives that supposedly break down solid waste at a faster rate. These products — as well as toilet cleaners and other chemicals — upset the natural balance of bacteria. Keep all of these products out of your tank to avoid killing important bacteria. 

 

Keep your septic system in excellent condition with pumping and other tank care services from A & J Nichols Septic Tank Co. Based in Byhalia, MI, this company offers 24/7 emergency services in addition to routine care. Call the family-owned company at (662) 838-2945 to schedule a cleaning appointment. Learn more about services online.