If you have a septic system on your property, you know how important it is to keep it running smoothly. Neglecting your septic tank can lead to costly repairs and unpleasant situations, but with proactive maintenance, you can avoid these issues altogether.
In this blog post, we’ll reveal some straightforward septic tank maintenance tips that every homeowner should know:
- Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain. One of the easiest ways to practice septic tank maintenance is to be careful about what you flush or pour down your drains. When grease, cooking oils, paper towels, wipes, and hygiene products go straight down the drain, they can clog pipes, slow down the natural breakdown process, and even damage your septic system. Be kind to your tank and stick to toilet paper and wastewater only.
- Have Your Tank Pumped Out Regularly. Just like getting your car’s oil changed, your septic tank needs regular pumping (every three to five years is the general rule). Over time, solids build up, and if you wait too long, they can create clogs that cause backups and nasty odors. Consistently scheduling septic tank pumpings will help prevent this from occurring.
- Maintain a Healthy Bacterial Population. Your septic tank is a living ecosystem containing beneficial bacteria that work hard to break down waste. The best way to protect these good bacteria is to either moderate your use of harsh cleaners or stick to septic-safe cleaning products. Additionally, you can talk to a professional about boosting their numbers with biological additives like BioFORCE.
- Schedule Annual Professional Inspections. Even with regular septic tank maintenance, it’s wise to have your tank inspected by a professional once a year. A trained technician can identify potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs, such as leaks, cracks, or malfunctioning components. They can also provide valuable advice on optimizing your septic system’s performance and longevity based on your property’s needs.