Septic tanks allow people to manage their own sewage rather than relying on the municipal system. This entails more responsibility from the homeowner regarding maintenance. Here is a guide on when to schedule septic system maintenance and what you can do to keep your system working properly in between checkups. 

When Should You Schedule Professional Maintenance?

Over time, the levels of solid waste and oils inside your septic tank will build, preventing the flow of effluent into the drainfield. If the levels get too high, you may experience sewage backups inside your home, or solids may start flowing into the drainfield, where they can prevent future filtration. 

During preventative maintenance, professionals can pump solids out of your tank. As a general rule of thumb, a tank should be pumped every three to five years, but these guidelines may differ depending on the number of people in your household. For homes with four people, you may need to have the tank pumped as often as every other year.

If you use a garbage disposal heavily, you should err on the side of caution when scheduling preventative maintenance since food debris can quickly collect in a septic system. 

What Else Can You Do to Maintain Your Septic Tank?  

The less water that moves through your system, the less strain is put on your septic tank, so consider installing low-flow faucets, shower heads, and toilets. Modern toilets use as little as 1.6 gallons of water per flush, while older versions use up to 6.

When you wash dishes, scrape plates off into the trash before rinsing to keep extra food debris from moving into your tank. 

Never put strong disinfectants or cleaning chemicals down the drain since they can kill the tank’s beneficial bacteria that help break down debris.

Never park over the drain field in your yard; doing so can compact the soil. 

When you need septic tank maintenance, turn to B Sales Trucking, Excavation, Pumping & Plumbing Services in Makawao, HI. The locally owned and operated company helps people throughout Maui enjoy safer, more functional homes and businesses. To schedule a free estimate for service, send them a message online or call (808) 264-3281.