Keeping your septic system in good working order is important—the last thing you want is to flush your toilet and find out that something has gone terribly wrong. Knowing how to take care of your septic system will help ensure you’re not subject to any avoidable, unpleasant surprises. Keep the number of your favorite local septic contractor on hand, schedule maintenance reminders on your calendar and follow these tips for maintaining your septic system in Prior Lake, MN.
- Get regular inspections and maintenance: Most septic systems need to be inspected at least once per year. Have a local septic system company come to your home or business to check the tank, components, drain field and more. If you notice any problems, of course, have it inspected right away—even if it hasn’t been a whole year.
- Pump your tank when needed: You can expect to pump your septic tank every three to five years, and more frequently if there are any issues. The more people who use your tank, the more often it will need to be pumped. This is a good reason to conserve water.
- Watch your water usage: The more water your household uses, the faster your system will wear out. Be sure to watch your water usage. This includes limiting your showers, only washing laundry and dishes when you have a full load and not flushing the toilet in between uses.
- Divert water away from the drain field: Your rain gutters and downspouts should be configured so they’re pointed away from the drain field. Excess water will interfere with the treatment system.
- Keep the lids closed and accessible: Your tank and septic system lids should be closed and secure, but always accessible—never add landscaping or place objects on top of them.
- Be smart about landscaping: Grass and other plants with short roots can be placed over the drain field, but you should avoid planting trees. Their roots can wrap around pipes and crack them.
- Don’t flush anything except waste and toilet paper: The only things you should be flushing down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Keep cat litter, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes and other products out of the toilet. Your septic system won’t be able to “digest” them.
- Don’t use chemicals in your drains and toilets: Most chemicals are not septic safe, which means they’ll interfere with the helpful bacteria that treats your water.
- Don’t park vehicles on the drain field: Never park or drive vehicles over the drain field, as this can damage your septic system. Animals, structures and human traffic should also be kept away.
- Don’t use additives in your septic tank: Finally, septic additives should be avoided—they can clog your system or pollute the groundwater system. If you must use them, make sure your state and municipality have approved the specific product.
Following these tips for maintaining your septic system in Prior Lake, MN will help your system function properly and last for years to come. For septic services, call Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services today.