If you have recently moved into a home that utilizes a septic tank, then there are a few things you need to know in order to keep your septic system maintained in good working condition. Although septic systems can require repairs, most of the time this happens because of careless behavior by the residents of the house. The following are a few tips that will keep your septic tank in good working order.
Be careful what you flush down your toilet
In fact, you should never flush anything down the toilet except natural waste and toilet paper. If you are accustomed to having your main drain line connected to a city sewer system, you will not likely appreciate how sensitive a septic system can be. Once something passes through your toilet, it can still clog up your septic system. Avoid flushing even small items that do not degrade to a liquid quickly.
Do not use a garbage disposal
If you’re like many people, the first time you move into a home with a septic system, you may notice that there is no garbage disposal in the kitchen. This is because a garbage disposal sends solid waste into the sewer system, and you want as few solids in your septic system as possible. If by chance there is already one in your kitchen, do not use it. You can start a compost pile in your yard. This is economical and helps the environment. Garbage disposals are more trouble than they are worth to a septic system owner.
Do not drain chlorinated water into your septic system
This not only applies to your septic tank but your drainfield as well. The chlorine in water will kill the bacteria that exist throughout your septic system, causing a health issue for you and others in your household. When draining your pool, hot tub or other chlorinated water source, let the water flow away from the septic drainfield.
Keep your water usage down
Heavy water use puts a lot of strain on your septic system, so the less water you use, the longer your septic tank will likely last before needing any repairs. In addition, your septic system can only handle a certain amount of water at any given time. It is a good idea to avoid using the dishwasher at the same time you are using your washing machine. The more water you use, the sooner you will need your septic tank pumped.
Of course, every septic tank needs to be pumped sooner or later, but by using the tips listed above, you can minimize the number of times pumping is needed for your particular make and model, as well as keep repair costs down.