5 Ways To Prevent Septic Tank Problems
5 Ways To Prevent Septic Tank Problems
Keeping your septic system in good condition can save you time, money and hassle.
1. Don’t Pour Chemicals Down the Sink
Chemicals are not good for the environment, and they can wreak havoc on your septic system. They can damage the drainpipes or clog them, which could lead to costly plumbing repairs. Moreover, they can be very toxic to the useful bacteria in your septic tank. This is why it is best to avoid pouring chemicals down the sink. For example, laundry detergents contain phosphates that soak into the drain field and harm beneficial bacteria in the septic tank. These phosphates can also seep into groundwater causing pollution.
2. Don’t Overfill The Drainfield
Overfilling the drainfield can cause wastewater to back up and clog the pipes. This happens because of the naturally occurring bacteria and enzymes in your septic tank. If these bacteria aren’t able to break down the solids quickly enough, the waste will remain inside the tank and back up into the drain field. This can happen if your septic system hasn’t been pumped regularly or the drain field is damaged. Excessive weight on the drainfield, such as a shed, animal or vehicle, can crush the drain pipes and compact the soil below. If you’re experiencing standing water in your drain field, have it evaluated by a professional. It could be a sign that the soil has become too compact, or it might just need to be aerated so that it can absorb more water.
3. Don’t Damage The Drainfield
The drainfield is the large field downhill from your septic tank that is where effluent goes through final processing before it reaches the ground. It’s best to avoid damaging this area of your septic system. Building structures, such as tool or garden sheds, decks, sport courts, patios, swing sets and sand boxes on or near the drainfield can cause damage to the system over time. Trees and shrubs are also a big no-no on a drainfield because their roots can clog the lines that lead to the piping and stop wastewater flow. Soil compacting from heavy equipment or cars parked on the drainfield can also cause problems. If the soil is too compacted, wastewater could pool or contaminate the ground. Alternatively, it can back up into your home or business.
4. Don’t Use Non-Biodegradable Materials
Non-biodegradable materials are wastes that don’t decompose naturally, which is why they can be harmful to the environment. They include things like plastics, batteries, polybags, and glass. They also contain toxic chemicals that are released into the soil and water, which can be harmful to plants and animals. This is why it’s best to avoid using non-biodegradable materials in your septic tank. When you flush non-biodegradable waste down the toilet, it will eventually clog your septic tank. This will cause a backup in your home and also pollute ground water nearby.
5. Keep Your Drains Clean
One of the best ways to prevent septic tank problems is by keeping your drains clean. Dirty drains are a direct route for bacteria to spread throughout your home and clog your plumbing. If your sink and shower drains are slow to drain, gurgling sounds, or water backups occur, it’s time to check them out. This is often caused by a clog in the line between your home and your septic tank. This line can also become blocked by debris from tree roots and shrubs that grow near your septic tank. This is often a more complex problem to fix.
Categorised in: Septic Cleaning, Septic Problems, Septic Services, Septic Systems, Septic Tank, Septic Tank Failure, Septic Tank Pumping, Septic Tank Repairs
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