If you have a septic system on your property, you must invest in septic tank maintenance to keep it running smoothly. That also involves your household habits, particularly when it comes to doing laundry. Washing machines generate a large volume of water, which can tax your septic system if you’re not careful. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind the next time you’re doing laundry. 

Do:

Time the laundry carefully.

Doing laundry early in the morning gets the chore out of the way, but it also coincides with your family’s morning bathing and grooming routine. Wash your clothing during off-peak hours instead, such as in the middle of the day when no one is home, to limit the water usage. 

Choose the right detergent.

Certain types of laundry detergents are specifically formulated for septic systems. They must be biodegradable, so they don’t disrupt the biological processes within the tank. They must also be low in surfactants, which are molecules that break up dirt on clothing. Check labels for “septic-safe” when shopping for a detergent. 

Don’t:

Save up all your laundry for one day.

A massive load of laundry will send a torrent of water to your septic tank and drain field, causing oversaturation. Instead, wash small loads throughout the week to limit how much water you generate. 

Use other appliances at the same time.

Running your washing machine and dishwasher simultaneously will also increase the volume of water sent to your septic system. Stagger the chore schedule; for instance, laundry can be done in the middle of the day, while dishwashing can be saved until after dinner. 

When you need septic tank maintenance in North Pole, AK, rely on the professionals at Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing. They’ll help you determine the right pumping schedule for your equipment, plus they provide 24/7 service in case of septic emergencies. Learn more about their septic tank maintenance services online, or call (907) 488-9855 to make an appointment.