Having to maintain your septic tank isn’t something people want to think about all the time and frankly – it’s something you don’t need to talk about all the time. However, there are things you can do to ensure it stays a lighter lift and even more importantly – saves you some money as well!
Let’s jump right in!
Be careful about what goes down the drain
We’d probably be willing to argue that 90% of septic and lift station issues that arise come largely from people throwing things they shouldn’t down the drain and it building up somewhere in their system. Just like you need to be conscious of what kinds of foods you put in your body, you also need to be cognizant of what you put into your septic system.
Things like baby wipes, paper towels, bandages, cigarette butts, floss, cat litter, condoms, feminine products, bleach – none of these things should ever go down the drain if you own a septic tank. Not only can they clog up your system, but they do a real number on the overall ecosystem of your tank – where beneficial bacterias need to be living and thriving in order to break down waste water. If you make it harder for them to do their job – it makes it harder for the tank to do the job you need it to do.
Keep plants and trees away from the drain field
A lot of headaches with your system can be taken care of during the installation process. And what we mean by this is being mindful of where you are planting trees and bushes. Even smaller shrubs can have significantly large root systems and those root systems can be highly invasive into your system. Root infiltration can occur in pipes, distribution boxes and other components associated with your septic tank in the drain field.
When this happens – it’s doubly bad news because not only will you find yourself with a septic-tank related issue; but now you also have a tree-removal and a potential environmental issue as well. The only thing that should rest over your tank – is shallow grass. Nothing more, nothing less.
Don’t let problems turn into emergencies
People get themselves into trouble all the time just because they don’t keep up a normal, minimal maintenance schedule. Look – you go to the doctor every year and get a check up. Treat your septic tank the same way. It may not need any work – but if it does or if there is a developing problem – you can get out ahead of it before it becomes a crisis. Not only will this cost significantly less, but it will prevent the problem from compounding and creating other issues.
Hopefully you found today’s blog helpful. If you need assistance with your lift station or wastewater system, give us a call today and we’ll be happy to provide you with a free consultation. Until then – good luck!