Septic system maintenance is not as complicate as you might believe. There are really only four primary categories of upkeep tasks you need to engage in, and they are all simple enough.
Here’s an overview of those categories from our septic pumping service in Prior Lake, MN.
Regularly inspect and pump the system
Most average septic systems for residential households should be inspected at least every three years by a professional septic service provider. Pumping intervals tend to be every three to five years, depending on the level of usage and size of the system. However, if your system has additional systems that have electrical float switches, pumps and other mechanical components, it should be checked more often—typically at least annually.
Always hold on to maintenance records of any work performed on your septic system. Write down the sludge and scum levels your septic professional discovered in the system. The service notes should indicate if additional major repairs are recommended, beyond the simple repairs and adjustments made during your service appointment.
Use water as efficiently as possible in your home
In a single family home, you can expect to average about 70 gallons of water used per individual per day. If you have any leaks in your plumbing or a constantly running toilet, you could waste as much as 200 gallons of water every day.
The more water you conserve in your house, the less water will flow into the septic system, which means your system will be able to operate more efficiently and have a lower chance of failure.
Beyond just being careful about how much water you use on a daily basis, you can install water-efficient toilets, washing machines, showerheads and faucets throughout your home.
Always engage in proper waste disposal
Remember: toilets are not trash cans. There are some items that should never be sent down the drain, such as condoms, dental floss, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, cooking grease, pharmaceuticals and certain household chemicals.
Not only will attempting to send these items down the drain potentially cause damage to your plumbing, but it will also do some damage to your septic system.
Protect your drain field
The drain field is the area in which contaminants from the liquid that comes out of your septic tank is dispersed and filtered. This is an important part of your septic system, so you should make it a part of your maintenance routine. Never park or drive on top of your drain field. If you decide to plant trees or deep-rooting shrubs, make sure they are an appropriate distance away from the drain field so the roots do not become problematic. Finally, keep all roof drains, sump pumps and other drainage systems on your property away from the drain field area, as excess water could hamper the wastewater treatment processes.
For more information about septic maintenance, contact Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services with questions or to schedule septic pumping service in Prior Lake, MN.