Owning a home with a septic system comes with its own set of responsibilities. A well-maintained septic system ensures your household runs smoothly and avoids costly repairs or messy breakdowns. To keep everything in top shape, there are essential dos and don’ts that every homeowner should follow. Team Sewer and Water is here to provide expert advice and reliable service to help you confidently maintain your system.
Septic System Dos
Taking proactive steps to maintain your septic system is the best way to prolong its life and avoid headaches. Here’s what you should do:
1. Schedule Regular Inspections and Pumping
Your septic tank should be inspected every 3-5 years and pumped as needed based on the size of your household and tank. Regular maintenance removes sludge and prevents it from clogging the system. Team Sewer and Water can handle inspections and pumping to keep your system running smoothly.
2. Conserve Water
Excess water can overload your septic system, reducing its efficiency. Simple habits like fixing leaky faucets, using water-efficient appliances, and spreading out laundry loads can prevent undue strain on the system.
3. Use Septic-Safe Products
Harsh chemicals and non-biodegradable products can harm the bacteria in your tank that break down waste. Use household cleaning products labeled “septic-safe” to maintain a healthy balance in your tank.
4. Protect Your Drain Field
Your drain field is a vital part of your septic system that filters and disperses treated wastewater. To keep it functioning properly:
- Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on the drain field.
- Plant only grass or shallow-rooted plants nearby to prevent root intrusion.
- Direct rainwater drainage away from the area to avoid oversaturation.
5. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
Your plumbing isn’t a trash can. Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Grease, coffee grounds, wet wipes, and hygiene products can clog pipes and harm your septic system.
Septic System Don’ts
To prevent damage and expensive repairs, steer clear of these common mistakes:
1. Don’t Skip Maintenance
Neglecting to pump or inspect your septic tank can lead to backups, system failure, and costly repairs. A little preventative care goes a long way.
2. Don’t Pour Chemicals Down the Drain
Paints, solvents, oil, and other chemicals disrupt the bacteria needed for your septic system to function. Properly dispose of hazardous materials through your local waste management facility.
3. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
Foul odors, slow drains, gurgling sounds, or standing water near your drain field are all signs of septic trouble. Ignoring these red flags can turn minor issues into major problems. Team Sewer and Water is just a call away if you notice anything unusual.
4. Don’t Use Excessive Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals send solids into the septic tank, increasing sludge buildup and forcing the system to work harder. If you use a garbage disposal, pump your tank more frequently to avoid problems.
5. Don’t Flush “Flushable” Wipes
Despite their name, “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They can clog your pipes and fill your septic tank faster, leading to blockages over time.
Get Your Septic System Inspected Today!
At Team Water and Sewer of Waterbury, CT, we provide top-quality residential and commercial septic and water services! Whether you need a septic system installed, repaired, or maintenance on an existing one, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with us to learn more about what our experts can do for you!