Septic system maintenance isn’t just a good idea; in most jurisdictions, it’s the law. Regular septic maintenance is the best way to ensure that your septic system does what it’s supposed to do safely. Septic maintenance usually isn’t a do-it-yourself project. Don’t hesitate to call in a professional to inspect, clean and maintain your tank.
Septic system maintenance tips
When should you have your tank inspected and maintained? Here are a few tips and pointers for getting the best septic system care.
Eliminate your garbage disposal
Garbage disposals put a lot of organic matter into your septic tank. Septic tanks are designed to break down human waste, but food scraps in the tank (even in tiny pieces) can interfere with the biological operation inside. They also significantly increase the amount of solid waste in the tank. If you have a septic system, consider composting your organic waste instead.
Do regular inspections
If you have a garbage disposal, have your gravity or pressure distribution system checked annually. If you don’t have a garbage disposal, you should have your gravity system examined and maintained at least every three years. Pressure distribution systems should receive the royal treatment once each year. If your pressure distribution system has an aerobic treatment unit, have that checked every six months. Mound and sand systems with an ATU should be given a basic inspection quarterly, and a full inspection annually.
Keep your documentation!
Keep records on your septic system maintenance. Having a history on the septic tank can help you make repair and replacement decisions, and will also be helpful when you’re selling the house. If you live in an area where your tank needs to be certified, having the inspection paperwork handy will smooth out that process.
Limit what you put in the tank
Septic systems are designed to eliminate human waste, but human waste isn’t the only thing that ends up in the septic tank. Laundry and dishwashing wastewater, showers and sinks all add volume to the septic tank. Cleaners like bleach and soap can destroy the biological agents that make the septic tank work, so be very careful about using soaps that are approved for use in septic systems.
If you’d like more information about septic system maintenance, please contact us at Clear Drain Cleaning at (330) 343-7146 to schedule a visit!
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