Troubleshooting My Septic System

Posted on: 29 January 2021

One of the effective ways to treat your wastewater at home is to install a septic tank. These tanks come in various forms and materials and are designed to meet your unique needs and budget. But, your responsibilities don't end when you install the tank. Septic tank maintenance should be done regularly to make sure the waste treatment system functions effectively for longer. 

You will also prevent common septic tank problems and avoid the hassle and costs associated with these problems. So what can you do to prevent septic tank issues? These easy hints will prove helpful.

Don't Use a Garbage Disposal

Whenever you use garbage disposals, you introduce lots of organic matter in the septic tank without adding more bacteria to consume it. Mostly, the bacteria found in the tank are from human waste, so they'll get overwhelmed, hence reducing the efficiency of the waste treatment system.

The additional organic substances may even find their way into the drain field before they are broken down. This causes pipe blockages, and the only remedy is to hire experts to unclog it. Luckily you can avoid all this by stopping garbage disposal usage.

Take Care of Your Drain Field

The septic system's drain field is the component that's responsible for removing remnants from the water that's released from your septic system. Since the drain field plays an essential role, it's crucial to maintain it regularly. Do not be tempted to drive your car or park it on the drain field. 

Other things you shouldn't do include planting trees or directing rainwater drainage systems towards the drain field. If you need to plant trees, be sure to consult with a septic service pro to get recommendations on the proper distance. The pro will consider factors like the landscape, type of tree, and septic tank before providing an answer.

Hire Professionals to Pump Out Your Tank

Another maintenance measure you should never overlook is cleaning out the tank. Septic professionals recommend that you have a schedule depending on your requirements. Generally, this can be done once every three to five years or sooner when the need arises. Although cleanouts usually disrupt the bacteria environs, it gives you the chance to get rid of the solid layer at the bottom part of the tank. 

When you let the solid layer sit there for longer, the tank's efficiency will reduce when it comes to processing the waste. The bacteria will struggle to break down the waste because the solid layer is taking up more space. Therefore, be sure to pump out the tank to boost efficiency.

For more information about septic tank maintenance, contact a company like Linn Septic Service.