Essential Septic Tank Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Septic tanks contribute to efficient household wastewater treatment and disposal. As an essential part of your home's plumbing system, septic tanks require regular maintenance to function properly and keep your property and the surrounding environment healthy. Knowing how to maintain a septic tank is the first step to ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your system. 

Septic Tank Maintenance Tips

Taking care of your septic tank can be a relatively straightforward process. Follow this septic tank maintenance checklist to keep your system in top condition:

Regularly Pump Your Septic System

Septic pumping involves removing liquid and accumulated solid waste from your tank. It is a necessary part of maintenance that prevents blockages and clogs. It is recommended that you hire a professional to pump your system every three to four years. When you need to get your septic system pumped depends on various factors, such as the size of your household and tank, the waste you generate and the volume of solids in your wastewater. 

Use Water Efficiently

Your water use determines the amount of wastewater that enters your septic system. You should conserve water wherever you can to avoid overloading your system. Simple actions that you can implement include:

• Fix leaky faucets and toilets.

• Install low-flow toilets and showerheads.

• Spread out laundry and dishwasher loads. 

Practice Proper Waste Disposal

Some materials that make it into your plumbing through drains or toilets can impact the function of your septic system. Items like diapers, feminine hygiene products and wipes can clog the system. You should also compost or throw food scraps in the trash rather than down the garbage disposal. The same applies to grease and fats since they can solidify and block pipes.

Maintain Your Drain Field 

The drain field is an integral part of the septic system. It receives wastewater from the tank, helps filter it and disperses it into the soil. Protecting the drain field is important to ensure proper wastewater filtration, and here's how you do it:

• Avoid driving or parking vehicles on the drain field, which can compact the soil and damage the system.

• Keep trees, vegetable gardens or shrubs away from the drain field since the roots can damage the pipes.

• Regularly inspect the drain field for issues, such as standing water or foul odors, and address them promptly.

Schedule a Professional Septic Tank Maintenance Service 

Regular septic tank maintenance keeps your system in top condition, allowing you to enjoy a healthy environment. If you need a professional maintenance service, Bolton Septic is here to help. We have decades of experience working with septic systems, so we can handle all your cleaning and maintenance needs. Schedule a service today!