Septic systems provide a way to remove wastewater from the home in areas that aren’t connected to a public sewer line. These systems are generally easy to care for, as long as the homeowner understands the basics.
For homeowners new to septic systems, there is a lot they can learn about what to expect and how to make sure their septic system remains in great shape so it continues to work properly.
Septic Maintenance is Needed Regularly
Septic system maintenance is vital, as waste needs to be pumped out and removed to make sure it doesn’t overfill. When getting septic service maintenance, though, pumping isn’t the only thing that’s done.
The experts can inspect the septic system to make sure everything is running as expected. If the homeowner has any concerns, now is the time to ask about them, as the experts will be able to answer any questions and provide more information about how the septic system works and how to keep it safe.
Check Local Laws for Requirements
When a homeowner moves into a property with a septic tank, it is a good idea to check local laws and become familiar with them to make sure everything is followed. This can help prevent fines or other potential issues.
Laws may require locks or chains on exposed septic tank covers, for instance, to prevent potential injuries or other issues. Talk with a local expert to make sure the system is following all applicable laws.
See If the System Has a Filter
Newer septic systems include a filter that needs to be cleaned regularly. In most cases, it should be cleaned about twice per year to keep the septic system working properly. Homeowners can do this on their own, but a maintenance expert can help if they don’t want to or aren’t sure how.
The method for cleaning depends on the type of filter, though it is important to be careful to avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the septic system when cleaning.
Avoid Letting Heavy Vehicles on Drain Field
The drain field is a large area where the wastewater drains into the soil and filters through. It is important to make sure this area is taken care of properly to prevent the soil from being compacted and causing issues with puddling or leaks.
Avoid letting any heavy vehicles drive onto the drain field, as they can cause significant damage, and it may require significant repairs to fix the drain field.
Avoid Planting on the Drain Field
There are pipes that go through the drain field to help move wastewater to where it should go. The wastewater is full of nutrients, so plants tend to grow towards the source. Planting trees, shrubs, or anything other than grass on the drain field can mean the roots will grow towards and eventually into the pipes, clogging the holes.
his can cause the septic system to fail and can be expensive to fix. It’s a much better idea to avoid planting anything other than grass on the drain field.
Be Careful About What’s Flushed
Homeowners must be careful about what’s flushed in the system. Do not pour materials like grease or paint down the drain, and minimize what is flushed. Even if wipes say they are flushable, it’s not a good idea to flush them down the toilet, especially on a septic system, as they aren’t likely to break down and can cause clogs.
Homeowners will want to make sure they know how to care for the septic system and what can and can’t be flushed or go down the drain.
Take Care of Leaks Quickly
Leaks can add more water than expected to the septic system, leading to it being full a lot faster than it should and making the system work less efficiently.
Instead, if there are any leaks detected in the home, it’s a good idea to have them fixed as quickly as possible. This helps to minimize the potential damage and can help the septic system last a lot longer.
Use the Right Cleaning Products
Some bacteria is contained in the septic system to help handle the waste. The bacteria can be killed off if harsh chemicals are poured down the drain, so it is a good idea to avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the home.
While a little bit may not be a big problem, it can end up being worse than the homeowner expected if harsh chemicals are routinely put down the drains. Instead, look for non-toxic cleaners to use to keep the home clean and minimize the use of any chemicals that can be considered toxic.
Avoid Flushing Hazardous Waste
It’s important to avoid flushing anything besides waste down the drains, as anything that is flushed can potentially cause clogs or other damage. If the drains become clogged, it will be necessary to have them cleared out and the septic system pumped to remove the items that are causing issues. This can be expensive, depending on the severity of the damage.
Know How to Spot System Failures
Even with excellent care, it’s possible for a septic system to fail at some point. Homeowners will want to make sure they understand the signs of failure so they can spot them faster and make sure the system is repaired as quickly as possible.
This can help to minimize potential damage and reduce the cost of repairs. Some of the signs of a failure include wastewater backing into the home, foul smells in the drain field area, and even bright green grass in specific areas over the drain field
End note
If you’re moving into a home with a septic system, it’s important to understand what you need to do or avoid doing to keep it in great shape and prevent potentially significant expenses in the future. Use the information here and make sure the system is properly maintained to help it last as long as possible. Schedule maintenance visits today to make sure your septic system will work properly.
