The drainfield is one of the most expensive components of a septic system, both during the initial installation and for repairs. Once a drainfield is in place, it’s in a homeowner’s best interest to ensure the drainfield isn’t compromised by a poorly functioning or maintained septic tank, filter and aerator. By keeping your entire septic system maintained, you can avoid expensive drain field failures and keep your entire system working smoothly for years to come.
Maintaining A Healthy Drainfield
To keep your drainfield working properly and to prevent failures, one of the most important factors is keeping your bio-mat in balance. The bio-mat is the biological mat that accumulates in the bottom and sides of your drainfield trench. This “mat” is made up of microorganisms which live in organic material found in the septic wastewater. If the bio-mat becomes too thick, or out of balance, it can stop absorption into the drainfield soil below, causing a drainfield failure or septic backup.
To keep the bio-mat balanced , your septic tank must be maintained. Septic tank problems can cause excess organic material to be diverted into the drainfield, giving the bio-mat the food it needs to grow. Some of the ways to prevent septic tank problems that can lead to excessive organic materials are:
- Regular septic tank pumping
- Prevent harsh chemicals, like bleach and other cleaners, from getting into your septic system
- Keep grease and fats out of drains
- Have regular maintenance performed on septic tank, filters and aerators
The best way to protect your drainfield is to watch what materials you allow to go into the septic system and to maintain your septic tank. If it has been more than a year since you have had your septic system inspected or serviced, call your local septic professional now to schedule an appointment.
Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic
