The septic tank is a critical yet overlooked functional home or business element. Most individuals, especially new septic system owners, may be unaware that the septic system requires proper care and maintenance to operate optimally.

Contrary to most people's beliefs, you shouldn't find it messy and expensive to keep your septic tank healthy. Find below simple septic tank care steps to keep your septic system healthy.

Mindful Water Usage

Did you know inefficient water usage is a top factor in septic system failure? On average, a single family uses about 70 gallons of water per day. Imagine the extent of damage a small leak in the toilet can cause. If a leak directs more water down the drainpipes, the septic system becomes overwhelmed and fails.

Also, consider not to drain hot tub water into the septic tank in large volumes. The water may overload the drain field. Also, the hot tub water's chlorine destroys the useful bacteria in the septic tank.

Proper Garbage Disposal

Note that anything that goes down the drainpipes ends up in the septic tank. So, whether you flush it down the toilet, the sink, or the shower, be aware of what gets to the septic system. Eventually, the gray water constituents will affect how your septic tank functions.

Don't turn your toilet into a trash can. Use it for only the intended purpose. Use the trash can for feminine products, baby and wet wipes, coffee grinds, diapers, paper towels, and other nun-flushable products. Some of these items may not clog your sink or toilet, but it only takes a short time before they block the septic tank.

Watch Your Landscaping

Indeed, plants around the drain field are a great idea. They help to prevent erosion and keep the drains intact. However, consider the use of shallow-rooted plants for your landscaping. Avoid plants with long root systems, such as streets around the drain field. This consideration prevents root intrusions that could damage the septic tank.

Besides being mindful of the plants, ensure that you minimize the water that runs to the drain field. Use appropriate water for landscaping and direct the irrigation systems away from the drain field.

Maintain a Clear Drain Field

The drain field is an essential component of the septic system. How you treat it will affect how the septic works. Strive to keep the sheds and carports away to clear the drain field. Don't park or drive over the drain field. Also, keep the roof drains and rainwater drainage systems away from the area.

These ideas ensure excess soil does not pack down and break the pipes. You also avoid soil compaction, which can drastically affect the water retention of your drain field.

Regular Septic System Inspection

Now, this step sums it all. You may do everything from proper garbage disposal to efficient water usage. But regular professional septic system inspection and maintenance makes the most significant impact.

An inspection helps professionals detect septic system issues in their early stages. For example, the professionals can identify leaks on time before your septic tank overloads. Also, they determine any clogs on the toilet and sink drains before the problem gets to the septic tank.

After the inspection, the septic tank experts will advise you on the way forward. If necessary, they will pump the septic tank and recommend the ideal pumping schedule based on your household size.

Conclusion

The tips above will keep your septic tank in its best condition. For more inquiries, don't hesitate to  reach out to us at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC for instant help. We will be glad to serve you!