A drain field, or leach field, is a key part of your home’s septic system. After being treated in the septic tank, wastewater flows into a series of perforated pipes, which slowly release the water into the surrounding soil. The soil removes harmful bacteria before returning water to the groundwater supply. Keeping the drain field in excellent condition is part of septic maintenance since damage or oversaturation can cause  groundwater contamination and exposure to dangerous pathogens in your yard. Follow these do’s and don’ts to keep your system healthy and functional. 

Do:

Plant grass and wildflowers. 

You should never plant edible plants over the drain field, as they can become contaminated by waste, but planting grass with shallow roots and wildflowers is fine. Planting serves two purposes: it helps prevent erosion, and it can also serve as an indication of trouble with your drain field. When the grass around the septic system becomes significantly greener than the rest of your yard, it can be a sign of a leak or problems with the drainage pipes. 

Control water usage. 

Spacing out your water usage helps prevent the septic tank from filling too quickly and overloading the drain field, which can lead to saturation and keep the soil from properly “cleaning” the wastewater. This means doing laundry throughout the week instead of saving it for a single day, spacing out showers, and installing low flow toilets and showerheads to help conserve water. 

Don’t:

Park on the drain field.

Parking cars over the septic tank and drain field can do significant damage to your septic system over time. Parking vehicles in that area causes the soil to compact and can damage the pipes underground. Also, avoid putting toys or playground equipment over the leach field. Although it is safe for children to play there, installing equipment can damage the pipes and make it more difficult to access the septic system for maintenance and repairs. 

Plant trees near the drain field.

Planting grass and flowers is fine, but planting trees near the drain field can threaten your septic system. The roots of large trees can grow around and into pipes and the septic tank. As a general rule, do not plant any trees that grow to 30 feet or taller within 30 feet of the septic system to prevent damage from roots.

 

Regular septic tank maintenance, including cleaning and pumping, is essential for keeping the system working and safe. Homeowners in Indian Trail, NC, rely on Septic Pumping Service for septic service, including septic tank replacement and repairs. Their licensed team of technicians has served the area for more than 20 years. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (704) 821-8001 to schedule septic service.