When waste leaves your home down the drain, it’s easy not to give the process a second thought. But if you use a septic tank, overlooking your sewage system’s maintenance needs can lead to significant problems, including backups, leaks, and tank failure. To keep your system intact and functional, here are five common septic tank maintenance mistakes to avoid.  

What Maintenance Mistakes Can Throw Off Your Septic System?

1. Putting Off Pumping

Bacteria inside the septic tank help break down most of the organic wastewater that flows through the system, so it can safely exit into the drainfield. But over time, solids will accumulate in the tank that won’t degrade.

If too much of this sludge builds up, the tank may overflow or clog. To keep this waste in check, schedule professional septic pumping about once every three to five years or as recommended for your system’s size.

2. Forgetting to Clean the Filter

Placed between the tank’s outlet pipe and drainfield connection, an effluent filter strains solid waste that can’t be broken down and helps keep unwanted debris out of the drainfield. But when the filter gathers too much waste, it will be difficult for wastewater to flow through to the drain. It’s best to clean or replace the filter when you schedule septic tank pumping.

3. Leaving Lids Unlocked

If you need to access the tank for maintenance, lock the lid in place when you’re finished. An insecure lid can cause someone to fall into the system accidentally. If the lid ever becomes worn or won’t shut securely, have it replaced.

4. Flushing Forbidden Objects

Flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet—such as floss, hygiene products, paper towels, and cotton swabs—can clog the plumbing. Chemicals, on the other hand, may kill essential bacteria in the tank. To avoid these issues, only send septic-safe toilet paper, water, and human waste down the drain.  

5. Ignoring Inspection Needs

Even if your private sewage system seems to be functioning fine, it may have small issues that can lead to bigger problems over time, such as minor leaks and clogs or weak connection points. As a preventative measure, have a professional inspect your system about once a year.

Whether you need septic pumping or a routine inspection, Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing is here to keep your system running strong. Serving customers throughout the North Pole, AK, region, they provide comprehensive septic tank maintenance services. In addition to extending the life of your septic system, this team can tend to many other important sewage needs, such as pipe thawing, water jetting, and toilet repair. Visit this team online to learn more about their capabilities, or call (907) 488-9855 to request prompt assistance.