If you live in a rural area, your home likely has a septic system, which is essentially an onsite sewage treatment facility. As such, it will need some maintenance.
The good news is that caring for a septic system isn’t complicated. However, if you don’t maintain your septic system, it could end up costing you a lot of money. In other words, it may need to be dug up and replaced.
Most septic systems need to be pumped every 3-5 years. However, in between pumping, here are some tips to keep your things functioning smoothly.
Monitor Solid Amounts
To prevent your system from becoming overwhelmed, it’s a good idea to monitor the amount of solids in the tank at least every six months. This can be done by dipping a long stick into the tank to measure the thickness of accumulated solids near the outlet baffle. If the sludge layer is up to 25-33% of the liquid capacity, it’s time to pump.
Spread Out Laundry and Dishwashing Usage
Too much water all at once isn’t good for your septic system and could lead to flooding of the drainfield, so rather than having a designated laundry day, when you likely run your dishwasher at the same time, spread out washing throughout the week in order to decrease stress on the septic system.
Toss it, Don’t Flush It!
The only thing that should be flushed down your toilet aside from bodily waste is toilet paper. No tissues, diapers, feminine products, etc. Toilet paper is designed to break down in a septic tank; other items are not.
Careful with the Kitchen Sink
Like your toilet, your sink is not a trash can. With that in mind, never allow things like coffee grounds, eggshells, medications, produce stickers, or flour to be washed down your drain as these can all clog up pipes or block screens. Cooking oil, grease, and fat can also clog up pipes, and dairy products aren’t broken down well in a septic tank. Lastly, keep in mind that garbage disposals grind up food which will be added to the layer of solids in the septic tank, so when in doubt, throw it out!
Say No to Chemicals
Harsh cleaning products, including bleach and drain cleaners, can harm the good bacteria in a septic system, so always opt for natural or plant-based cleaning products instead. A great option is BioGuard Plus Septic Tank Digester and Drain Cleaner from The Holistic Horse. A digester and drain cleaner in one, this product comes in a safe, dry form. It’s composed of microbial cultures and enzymes that consume organic waste. It is also organic, biodegradable, and non-pathogenic.
For tough clogs in which a plunger doesn’t work, try a drain snake (which can also be used on sinks).
Protect Your Drainfield
Along with being mindful of what you flush down your toilets or send down your sinks, protect your drainfield area as well. This means no parking or driving vehicles over the area and don’t plant trees or shrubs in the area, as roots may interfere with pipes.
A well maintained septic system can last indefinitely, so follow the above tips to keep yours around for the long haul!