Many residential customers have a septic tank on their property but don’t know much about maintaining it. Septic tanks are used on properties that don’t have access to municipal wastewater systems on their property. These large underground tanks use plastic or concrete construction with a drain pipe inlet to remove all wastewater from your home.
Regular maintenance of your septic tank is crucial. Without proper care, your system can experience multiple sewage backups and plumbing issues that can require significant and costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explore some great tips to help maintain your septic system and ensure you get the most extended lifespan for your tank.
Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank
With the right efforts, septic tank maintenance is easy. Let’s discuss some great tips for maintaining your tank.
Examine Your System and Pump Your Tank as Recommended
One of the first steps in maintaining the longevity of your system is scheduling routine inspections and pumping. Have your septic system checked at least once every three years by a professional plumber. If you notice any signs of a problem, contact a professional immediately for repairs. The longer you ignore septic tank issues, the more significant the damage.
If you want to extend the life of your system further, have your plumber inspect the mechanical elements and electrical components at least once a year to ensure optimal performance. You should also have your tank professional pumped every three years, depending on usage and size. Talk to your local plumber to recommend a schedule for regular septic pumping based on your specific household requirements.
Be Careful When Using Cleaning Chemicals
Most homeowners use multiple cleaning products to eliminate bacteria in their septic system. However, most of these chemicals can cause more harm than good. If you have a septic system, avoid using bleach when you wash clothes. If it’s necessary, stick to using a small amount. Drain cleaners are also damaging to your septic tank, so contact your local plumber before using these chemicals for DIY drain cleaning.
You should also be careful with what you use to clean your toilets, sinks, or other household appliances that flush into your septic tank. Many harsh disinfectants and antibacterial soaps create adverse effects on your plumbing system. Stick to natural cleaners and soaps when possible to avoid any significant damage.
Reduce Water Consumption
Reducing your water consumption isn’t just good for the environment, but it also helps extend the life of your septic system. The more water you use in your home, the more strain it puts on your septic tank over time. Therefore, reducing your water consumption can help you maintain your septic system for years. Avoid running dishwashers until they are full, take shorter showers, and find other ways to save on your water usage.
Watch What You Flush
Prevention is undoubtedly one of the easiest ways to maintain your septic tank. Therefore, it’s crucial to watch what you flush down your system. Avoid flushing napkins, tissues, paper towels, feminine products, pet litter, and anything else that can damage your septic system. Flushing anything besides human waste and toilet paper can put a strain on your system that requires costly repairs.
Contact One Way Rooter for Your Residential Plumbing Needs
If you’re looking for a reliable Plumber In La Habra, One Way Rooter is here to help! Contact us to schedule an appointment and discuss your needs.