How to Care for Your Septic System

Few things can be worse for a homeowner than a backed up septic system. Aside from the smell, you might have to deal with expensive plumbing costs, and maybe even code issues! Thankfully, here at Tri-County Water Services, we want to do more for our customers than wait for an issue. We want to provide you with tools to help prevent issues! With that in mind, here are a few simple tips on how to care for your septic system.

How to Care for Your Septic System: Tips

Let’s start with a handful of simple tips you can start implementing right away. According to the EPA, caring for your septic system involves:

• Inspecting and pumping your system frequently
• Using water efficiently
• Disposing of waste properly
• Maintaining your drainfield

When it comes to inspection and pumping, the average household should get an inspection every three years. However, systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should get inspected about once a year.

Next, efficient water use can make a huge difference. Whether it’s water-efficient toilets, showerheads, or washers, these things can not only reduce your water bill, they help your septic system as well.

Then, we also recommend disposing of waste and trash properly. DO NOT flush anything besides toilet paper and excrement. Plus, remember this phrase: “think at the sink.” Avoid pouring grease, solvents, large amounts of cleaners, or paint down the sink.
Finally, when it comes to maintaining your drainfield, avoid parking on it, planting on it, or draining water towards it.

How to Care for Your Septic System: Dos and Don’ts

There are also a few simple dos and don’ts on how to care for your septic system. Some of this will be review from above, but we’ll get more specific.

• DO consider your household size, septic tank size, amount of wastewater, and volume of solids in your water when figuring out how often to get your septic system inspected and pumped.
• DO NOT flush cooking grease, wipes, drugs, diapers, cat litter, paper towels, condoms, coffee grounds, or feminine hygiene products down your toilet.
• DO keep your septic tank lids securely closed.
• DO NOT use an excessive amount of chemical drain openers.
• DO direct water from roof drains away from your drainfield.
• DO NOT use septic tank additives.

Need Help? Call Tri-County Water Services!

If you follow these straightforward tips on how to care for your septic system, you can save money, time, and peace of mind. For all other needs, feel free to reach out to us at Tri-County Water Services!