Installing A Septic System: Secrets To Success
No homeowner wants to learn they need a new septic system. This is one household system, however, a person cannot live without if they lack access to a public sewage system. Most people think septic systems are only found in rural homes with no access to most public utilities. That is not the case. Many homes today have septic systems and homeowners that rely on one need to know how to care for them.
Pump the System Regularly
To avoid installing a new septic system, have the current system inspected regularly. Experts recommend having the system pumped every three to five years. Nevertheless, speak to the technician completing this job to see what they recommend. They inspect the system when cleaning it and can provide the best recommendation for knowing how often this task should be done. In addition, learn any local laws and regulations regarding when this task must be carried out.
Waiting too long to have the system pumped can lead to damage and costly repairs or the need for a new system. Solids build up in the system. If they aren’t removed, they can move to the drain field and do damage. The waste may also begin backing up into the home, and nobody wants raw sewage in the home.
Know What Should Go in the Septic System
Owners of septic systems must take care when putting things down any drain in the home, including the toilet. Cigarette butts and coffee grounds should never go into a household drain. Avoid using chemicals because they can interfere with the bacteria present in the tank. This bacterium breaks down the solids that enter the tank. If they cannot do their job, the tank will quickly fill up. Paper towels and kitchen grease are two additional items that should never go into a drain in the home. If they are, they will end up in the septic system.
Avoid Driving Over the Drain Field or Septic Tank
When having the new system installed, ensure it is not located where vehicles drive or park. The weight of the vehicles can do damage to the system and lead to the need for a replacement. In addition, the weight of the vehicles will lead to soil compaction. Compacted soil cannot absorb the water released from the drain field, which will lead to additional problems with the septic system.
Use Water Wisely
People rarely stop to think about how often they use water in the home. Every person should do so because water is a natural resource humans must conserve. However, it is even more important for septic tank owners to watch their water usage. A person should not shower, run the dishwasher, and do a load of laundry at the same time. Spread laundry over several days rather than doing it all in one day.
Homes with septic systems benefit from water-saving devices, such as low-water-usage toilets and front-load washing machines. They use less water, which means less water makes its way into the septic system. This can extend the life of the system greatly.
A septic system is a necessity for many households today. These systems operate quietly in the background when cared for. However, failing to maintain and protect the system can lead to early failure. Follow these steps when installing a new system to extend its lifespan, ensure it works as intended, and save yourself some money. Who doesn’t love that?