If you've recently moved into a home with a septic system instead of municipal water supply, you may be wondering how to properly care for a septic system. After all, they do require a bit more maintenance than a traditional plumbing system. The good news is that with proper maintenance, a residential septic system can easily last for up to 40 years before needing substantial repairs or replacement.
Not sure where to begin when it comes to caring for your home's septic system? There are a few simple steps you can take that will make all the difference.
Schedule Septic Tank Pumping
One of the most important maintenance tasks you'll need to follow is to schedule routine septic tank plumbing. With septic tank pumping services, the contents of your tank are flushed out using specialized equipment. This helps to get rid of sludge and other unwanted buildup that can otherwise cause damage to your tank over time. The frequency with which your tank should be pumped will vary based on its size, the number of people in your household, and other factors. However, most tanks should be flushed about once every three to five years.
Don't Overlook Annual Inspections
In addition to having your tank flushed, you should have your entire septic system inspected annually. This is a great way to be made aware of small problems that may arise so you can be proactive about repairs. And when it comes to your home septic system, it's always better to tackle small repairs before they turn into larger, more expensive, and potentially messier ones.
Improve Water Efficiency
The less water your home uses, the less strain you will put on your septic system. And of course, you'll enjoy added savings on your water bill as well. There are plenty of small changes you can make to use less water in your household, including:
- repairing small plumbing leaks
- installing flow restrictors on faucets and showerheads
- turning off the water while shaving or tooth-brushing
- waiting to run your dishwasher until it is full
Steer Clear of Additives
Last but not least, avoid using any additives in your home's septic system. Many of these products actually contain corrosive chemicals that can damage your tank and plumbing pipes. With proper maintenance, you shouldn't need to add anything to your tank to keep it in good shape.
By following these simple maintenance guidelines, you can keep your home's septic system in excellent shape for years to come.
For more information, reach out to a septic pumping service in your area.