While regular septic system inspections and repairs are necessary, the best way to take care of your septic system is through maintenance. Like most household appliances, septic tanks have a maximum amount they can do before they need replacement. Here are some things you can do to help your septic tank last longer.
- Use water efficiently. All the water that goes down your drains ends up going through your septic system, so the more you use, the more wear and tear it makes on your septic tank. Turn off sinks when you aren’t using the water, take shorter showers, and double check your pipes and toilets for leaks.
Use your garbage disposal sparingly. The use of a garbage disposal dramatically increases the amount of solid waste that ends up in your septic tank. If you limit the use of your garbage disposal, your tank will not fill up as fast and will need to be pumped less often.- Don’t rinse paints or chemicals down your utility sink. The chemicals destroy the bacteria that are needed to break down the waste in your septic tank.
- Avoid driving or parking your car over your drain field. The weight can cause the soil to compact, which keeps it from absorbing as much water. This lack of absorption can lead to back-ups in the tank. Also, avoid planting trees or building structures over the drain field.
- Don’t treat your toilet like a trashcan. Avoid flushing anything down your toilet that is not human waste or toilet paper.
Use your garbage disposal sparingly. The use of a garbage disposal dramatically increases the amount of solid waste that ends up in your septic tank. If you limit the use of your garbage disposal, your tank will not fill up as fast and will need to be pumped less often.Following these simple tips along with keeping up with septic system inspections and repairs will help you get the most out of your septic tank.