With summer arriving, many homeowners are performing necessary maintenance and cleaning around their properties. Your septic system should be included in your maintenance schedule to ensure it functions well all season long. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure a healthy septic system this summer. 

How to Maintain Your Septic System This Summer

1. Schedule Tank Pumping

You should have your septic tank professionally pumped every three years or so. However, if you’re expecting kids home from college or guests from out of town for the summer, you may want to schedule pumping before they arrive.

The volume of water your home produces will have an impact on tank functionality. If the tank is already close to full, you could be faced with leaks, odors, and backups. 

2. Keep Vehicles Off the Drain Field

Summer is a time for lawn care and landscaping. If you’re having work done at your home that requires heavy machinery, make sure workers know to avoid the drain field around your septic system.

Drain fields filter treated wastewater into the earth via a series of pipes, and heavy vehicles can compress the surrounding soil, causing serious damage. 

3. Watch Where You Plant Trees & Shrubs

Landscaping can also cause other problems with your septic tank. A plant’s root system seeks moisture underground, which can lead directly to your septic system. A tree in close proximity to your septic tank is likely to create problems with root intrusion, which can cause leaks. Trees should be planted as many feet away from the system as they will eventually grow tall. That means a tree that’s expected to reach 50 feet in height should be planted at least 50 feet away from your tank.

To get your septic system prepared for the season, contact ABC Pumping, the trusted septic professionals in Gainesville, GA. They’ll start by inspecting your system to look for any issues. From there, they can clean, pump, and service your tank and other components to keep the entire system in working order. They’re also endorsed by the Forsyth County Health Department. Call (770) 889-4323 to schedule an appointment or learn more about their services online.