Extending the Life of Your Septic System

If you, like so many others, rely on a septic system instead of a municipal sewer line to dispose of your household waste water,  you should do your best to see that the septic system is maintained in order to work properly. Through the practicing of good habits, you can keep your septic system in good and working condition, and avoid any unwanted repairs for your septic systems.

It’s important to know that the right size tank is installed for your home – knowing the right size depends on the number of people living in your household. Septic systems can only handle so much waste and other debris, so the important thing is to minimize the amount of matter that is sent through the system, and to maximize that which is beneficial to it. You can achieve this by using low flow showerheads and toilets. Another benefit to your system is a dishwasher and washing machine that uses water more efficiently. Other ways to care for your system can be as simple as turning the water off while washing dishes or brushing your teeth.

By taking special care of the products you use, you can extend the life of your septic system, which uses a beneficial bacteria for breaking down waste. Some chemicals can harmful and kill the important bacteria.

Have your septic system inspected every other year and have the septic tank pumped and cleaned when necessary. A licensed professional can advise you on which cleaning products you should use. They can also seek their advice on how to extend the life of your septic system and other tips on how to care for it.

Septic Systems: What You Need To Know

Septic systems are a fairly common part of many American households and consist of a septic tank and a drain field, also sometimes referred to as a leach field. The tank is buried underground and can be installed in either the front of the backyard so long as there is sufficient room for both the tank and the drain field. It is not recommended to place anything heavy such as a car or machinery above the tank so you should keep the space clear. Additionally it will not possible to build or install any features such as a swimming pool close to the drain field.

The septic tank is where all of your waste water from the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room will end up. Once there the waste is separated with solids remaining in the tank and liquid known as effluent is allowed to flow out of the tank and into the drain field. The effluent is then filtered as it percolates down through the soil where bacteria and viruses are removed.

There are certain things that must be done in order to properly maintain your septic system and one of the most important ones is to have the tank pumped on a regular basis. The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on a number of factors including the size of the tank and the amount of waste produced by your household.

Certain things should not be put into the system or you run the risk of causing damage such as feminine hygiene products and cigarette butts. Cooking oil should be disposed of in the garbage rather than down the drains and try not to use excessive amounts of water as this can cause the system to fail.