Septic tank maintenance is not something most people think about, but every now and then it’s a good idea to give it some thought.
First up, do you know where your septic tank is actually located? Also, where is its drainfield located? You should have a written record of this somewhere and share it with others who reside in the home.
Next, consider having a professional from Carolina Septic Pro inspect the septic system on a periodic schedule. They can also pump it every 3 to 5 years or as needed, in order to refresh it. If you have a really old system, you might want to replace it with a newer, safer, more efficient one. If you tend to overuse your garbage disposal, consider an upgrade to a larger septic tank and pump.
It’s a good idea to keep the septic area including its drainfield/leachfield free from heavy equipment as well as vehicles, livestock animals. Don’t plant bushes or trees there, since their roots can interfere– it’s best to keep it just grass. Look for any sudden or odd changes in the grade of the area around the tank. If you ever notice unusual puddling, odors, or worse– sinkholes– you might have a problem that needs professional attention.
As for water use in the home, be mindful of how water is being used. If and when there are leaky faucets or toilets that run constantly they should be fixed. Meanwhile, don’t flush things down drains that won’t easily degrade. In order to keep a healthy septic system running, that means don’t flush things like dirty cat litter, condoms, diapers, cigarette butts or cooking oils down drains. These things can clog or break the system, resulting in very expensive repairs and downtime.
Though you may be tempted to empty out strong chemicals down various drains in your home, those too are not good for the septic system. Chemicals that shouldn’t be put down sinks or toilets include household drain cleaners, solvents, paints/paint thinners, pesticides and more. Furthermore, don’t put motor oil or antifreeze down your household drains either.
If you’ve got any questions about septic systems, call Carolina Septic Pro at 704-626-6622.