What Should I Use To Keep My Septic Tank Running Properly?

How to keep your septic system working properly

Use water efficiently.
Repair leaky faucets and running toilets.

Don’t treat your toilet like a trash can.
Limit your use of heavy-duty cleaners.
Don’t flush toxic chemicals (or pour them down the drain).

Mind your landscaping.
Don’t disrupt the drain field.

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There are several things you can do as a homeowner to keep everything running smoothly. First, use water wisely to avoid taxing the well. Fix any faucet leaks to minimize waste and use aerators to control how much you use. Searching the internet for “septic service or repair near me” usually means you’ve run into trouble.

How can I keep my septic tank working properly?

How to Keep Your Septic System Healthy

How the Septic System Works.

Don’t Overload the Septic Tank and Drain field.
Use an Efficient Toilet.
Don’t Treat the Toilet as a Garbage Disposal.

Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain.
Divert Rain Water From the Septic Drain Field.
Keep Trees Away from the Septic System.

Should I be putting anything in my septic tank?

No. In fact, most septic problems occur BECAUSE people either add things to the septic system that shouldn’t be there or fail to remove what has accumulated over the years. The best way to keep your septic system working well is not to put anything in it except human waste and minimize kitchen & laundry waste.

How do I add good bacteria to my septic tank?

Flush a packet of brewer’s dry yeast down one toilet on the bottom floor of your house once a month. The yeast will help add “good” bacteria to your septic tank and break down waste.

Is Ridex good for septic systems?

How additives, like Rid-x, interfere with your septic system’s eco-system. According to the EPA and the Ohio Department of Health, not only are additives like Rid-X not recommended, but they actually have a detrimental and potentially hazardous effect on your septic system’s waste treatment process.

Should I put yeast in my septic tank?

Yeast helps actively breaks down waste solids when added to your septic system. Flush ½ cup of dry baking yeast down the toilet, the first time. Add ¼ cup of instant yeast every 4 months, after the initial addition.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:

Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.

You Hear Gurgling Water.
You Have A Sewage Backup.
How often should you empty your septic tank?

Do I need to add enzymes to my septic tank?

But septic tanks don’t really need help from extra additives. As long as you are only putting wastewater and toilet paper down the pipes, the tank can take care of its job on its own. Putting anything extra in can cause more harm than good and it’s best to stick to the tanks natural ecosystem when possible.

How do I clean my septic tank naturally?

You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!

How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?

For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.

Can you put too much bacteria in your septic tank?

Too much of a good thing can cause problems. A septic system relies on the correct balance of bacteria to do its job. An overpopulation of bacteria can deplete the oxygen in the septic tank and turn the environment septic. A septic, septic system is one in which the ecosystem within the tank is out of balance.

How often should I add bacteria to my septic tank?

When solids enter the tank, they settle to the bottom and collect there. Over time, those solids will start to build up. This is why the tank needs pumping every three to five years — because the solids in the tank always rise to the top.

What kills bacteria in septic tanks?

For example, while chlorine bleach is a useful disinfectant in the home, it kills beneficial septic tank bacteria. In addition to bleach, avoid constant use of antibacterial soap and harsh drain cleaners. Also, many toilet bowl cleaners have bleach or hydrochloric acid, which kills septic tank bacteria.

Do you put Ridex in every toilet?

If my home has 2 or more bathrooms, do I have to use RID-X® in each one? No, either pour RID-X^® down one drain or toilet or flush a RID-X^® Septi-Pac down one toilet.

How often should you put Ridex in your septic tank?

RID-X is natural & safe for pipes and septic systems. Always remember to use RID-X once per month along with regular pumping. 9.8 oz is 1 monthly dose for septic tanks up to 1500 gallons. To use, simply pour powder down the toilet and flush.

What happens to poop in a septic tank?

The inlet pipe collects the water waste in the septic tank, long enough that the solid and liquid waste is separated from each other. Inside the tank bacteria from the wastewater breaks down the solid waste. These bacteria decompose the solid waste rapidly allowing the liquids to separate and drain away more easily.

How to Care for Your Septic System

Septic system maintenance is neither difficult or expensive, and it does not have to be done frequently. The maintenance of a vehicle is comprised of four major components:

Inspect and pump your drainfield on a regular basis
Conserve water

Dispose of waste properly
And keep your drainfield in good condition.

Inspect and Pump Frequently

Inspection of the ordinary residential septic system should be performed by a septic service specialist at least once every three years. Household septic tanks are normally pumped every three to five years, depending on how often they are used. Alternative systems that use electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be examined more frequently, typically once a year, to ensure that they are in proper working order. Because alternative systems contain mechanical components, it is essential to have a service contract.

The size of the household
The total amount of wastewater produced
The amount of solids present in wastewater

The size of the septic tank

Service provider coming? Here is what you need to know.

• The total amount of wastewater produced by a household The amount of solids in wastewater is measured in cubic meters. a measure of the size of the septic tank

Use Water Efficiently

In a normal single-family house, the average indoor water consumption is about 70 gallons per person, per day, on average. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on the situation. The septic system is responsible for disposing of all of the water that a residence sends down its pipes. The more water that is conserved in a household, the less water that enters the sewage system. A septic system that is operated efficiently will operate more efficiently and will have a lower chance of failure.

Approximately 70 gallons of indoor water are consumed by each individual in a normal single-family house on a daily basis. A single leaking or running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water each day, depending on how often it occurs. Septic systems collect and treat all of the water that a household sends down its pipes. When a family conserves water, less water is discharged into a storm drain or into the septic tank. Improved septic system performance and reduced failure risk are two benefits of water conservation. With the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program, you may conserve water in a variety of ways and buy goods that are more water-efficient.

Properly Dispose of Waste

Everything that goes down your drains, whether it’s flushed down the toilet, ground up in the trash disposal, or poured down the sink, shower, or bath, ends up in your septic system, which is where it belongs. What you flush down the toilet has an impact on how effectively your septic system functions.

Toilets aren’t trash cans!

Your septic system is not a garbage disposal system. A simple rule of thumb is to never flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Never flush a toilet:

Cooking grease or oil
Wipes that are not flushable, such as baby wipes or other wet wipes
Photographic solutions

Feminine hygiene items Condoms
Medical supplies such as dental floss and disposable diapers, cigarette butts and coffee grounds, cat litter and paper towels, pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals such as gasoline and oil, insecticides, antifreeze, and paint or paint thinners

Toilet Paper Needs to Be Flushed! Check out this video, which demonstrates why the only item you should flush down your toilet are toilet paper rolls.

Think at the sink!

Your septic system is made up of a collection of living organisms that digest and treat the waste generated by your household. Pouring pollutants down your drain can kill these organisms and cause damage to your septic system as well as other things. Whether you’re at the kitchen sink, the bathtub, or the utility sink, remember the following:

If you have a clogged drain, avoid using chemical drain openers. To prevent this from happening, use hot water or a drain snake

Never dump cooking oil or grease down the sink or toilet. It is never a good idea to flush oil-based paints, solvents, or huge quantities of harmful cleansers down the toilet. Even latex paint waste should be kept to a bare minimum. Disposal of rubbish should be avoided or limited to a minimum. Fats, grease, and particles will be considerably reduced in your septic tank, reducing the likelihood of your drainfield being clogged.

Own a recreational vehicle (RV), boat or mobile home?

If you have ever spent any time in an RV or boat, you are undoubtedly familiar with the issue of aromas emanating from sewage holding tanks.

The National Small Flows Clearinghouse’s Septic System Care hotline, which may be reached toll-free at 800-624-8301, has a factsheet on safe wastewater disposal for RV, boat, and mobile home owners and operators.

Maintain Your Drainfield

It is critical that you maintain the integrity of your drainfield, which is a component of your septic system that filters impurities from the liquid that emerges from your septic tank once it has been installed.

Here are some things you should do to keep it in good condition:

Parking: Do not park or drive on your drainfield at any time. Plan your tree plantings so that their roots do not grow into your drainfield or septic system. An experienced septic service provider can recommend the appropriate distance for your septic tank and surrounding landscaping, based on your specific situation. Locating Your Drainfield: Keep any roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainfall drainage systems away from the drainfield area. Excess water causes the wastewater treatment process to slow down or halt completely.

Tips For Keeping Your Septic Tank Running

The septic tank is a septic tank. It’s one of the most important pieces of equipment in your house — yet it’s also one of the most mysterious. Even though it might be tough to comprehend something that cannot be seen, understanding your septic tank and how it works is essential. The septic tank is where all of the wastewater from your house, including that from your kitchen, bathrooms, and even laundry rooms, is dumped. We’ve included a quick description of the operation of your septic system, as well as some suggestions for maintaining it in good operating order.

The tank itself, as well as the drain field, are the two primary components of the septic system.
Upon entering, solid components are classified as either scum or sludge, depending on how much of them there are in total.
Within the tank, bacteria break down scum and sludge, and the separated water is sent through filters before entering the drain field.

Tips for keeping your septic system in good working order Reduce your water consumption to a bare minimum.
When there is an excessive amount of water flowing into the system, polluted water might escape from the tank and into the drain field.
Water use by a single person every day amounts to 70 gallons, which may be surprising, but is an accurate reflection of the situation.

Toilets: toilets account for 25-30 percent of the total amount of water consumed by a home. Toilets that are more recent in design consume less water than older models. Give us a call right now if your home is equipped with out-of-date toilets! In the long run, your septic system will be grateful to you.

Sinks: Consider all of the water that goes down your sink every day that isn’t being used. When cleaning dishes, washing their hands, or brushing their teeth, it is usual for homes to leave their water running unattended. Take the initiative and make a change! Make use of the water in your sink just when you need it.

Keep an eye on what you dump down your drains. It is critical to consider what goes down your drains before flushing it. If you find yourself second-guessing an item, it is likely that it is not intended to be flushed down the toilet.

Grease: While putting grease down your drain may seem like a reasonable choice, it is not recommended. Using grease to clean your pipes and drain field has the potential to clog them! It sounds like something out of a nightmare

Due to our familiarity with flushing toilet paper down our toilets, we have a propensity to believe that comparable goods such as tissues or wet wipes are also safe to flush. This is because the microorganisms in your septic tank are unable to break down these materials, and they will most likely continue floating in your tank.

Make an appointment for a standard checkup. Septic tanks holding 1,000 gallons or fewer need to be serviced every five years or less. For septic tank maintenance, call us at 804-758-4314 to schedule an appointment with a Miller’s specialist.

How to Keep Your Septic Tank Running Correctly

Everyone does not have access to a septic system. A large number of properties are instead linked directly to a city’s municipal sewer system. In contrast, if your water line does not have a meter and you are not paying for sewer service, it is likely that you are using a septic tank. In contrast to municipal sewer systems, you are solely responsible for the upkeep of your septic system. Taking the effort to repair your septic system is the most straightforward method of keeping it in good working order.

Here are some easy septic tank maintenance suggestions to assist you in accomplishing this. How does a septic tank operate is the first thing you should understand about maintaining one.

How Your Septic Tank Works

It is a sealed subterranean container that employs both technology and nature to help cleanse wastewater from a home or other establishment. It is used in combination with a drain field or a soil absorption field to provide drainage. The tank treats organic debris, removing oils, grease, and sediments from wastewater as it goes through the process. Depending on the model of septic tank, you may need to replace the filters on a regular basis. Some tanks are also equipped with alarms, which you should check on a regular basis to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Regular pumping will be required to keep the bacteria under control and the collected muck out of the system.

Septic Tank Maintenance Practices

Once a year, perform a thorough inspection of your system. Every three to five years, you’ll need to have your septic tanks pumped out. Additionally, you should get it examined by a specialist at least once a year. These inspections allow you to remain on top of the health of your system and ensure that everything is functioning properly. Inspections like this are particularly essential because they allow us to identify minor issues before they become major issues. Preventative solutions are usually more cost-effective than reactive ones since they are proactive rather than reactive.

Get it pumped regularly.

You can detect whether or not it’s time to get your septic tank pumped in two ways. By checking the interior of the tank, you may look for indicators of these problems. You should consider flushing your toilet if the bottom of the scum layer is less than 3 inches from your toilet outlet or the top of the sludge layer is within a foot of your toilet’s outlet.

Know what you should never put into your system.

A septic tank is a container designed to hold both solid and liquid waste. Neither motor oil nor discarded diapers nor cigarettes nor coffee grinds nor eggshells nor paints nor rags are appropriate for use in these machines. A brief version of the story is that you should never flush anything other than garbage down your toilet or sink.

Practice water conservation.

A septic tank requires time to perform its separation function between solid and liquid waste. Provide it with the necessary time by implementing general water saving measures. Fix leaks as soon as you find them, invest in energy-efficient equipment, and keep an eye on your routine daily water consumption.

Hold on to your paperwork.

Not everyone is aware of the location of their septic tank. You may find out by looking through your home’s original plans or by contacting a septic service company in your area for assistance. Once you’ve located it, make a note of its location. Keep track of all of the services that have been performed on your tank throughout the years. If you ever find yourself in need of repair, you may use these documents to guide you through the process.

If you want assistance with the installation, cleaning, or pumping of your home’s septic system, contact The Pink Plumber. Our professionals are on your side. OUR EXPERT PLUMBERS ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP YOU.

Your Guide to Septic Tank Maintenance

Did you know that it might cost anywhere between $3,000 and $7,000 to rebuild an average septic tank in the United States? With this in mind, appropriate septic system maintenance is extremely necessary to ensure that your septic system continues to function properly. Routine septic system maintenance can not only save you from having to spend a lot of money on expensive repairs, but it will also help to make your home a healthier and more secure place to live in. Septic system maintenance, on the other hand, isn’t difficult to learn.

As a result, it’s critical to pay close attention to what you’re flushing down the toilet as well as the efficiency of your household equipment.

Septic System Basics

A septic tank and a drainfield are both components of your septic system. Solids and scum that have built in your wastewater are collected in a container that is placed below and is responsible for storing them. More than one in every five houses in the United States, according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), “rely on an individual onsite system or a small community cluster system to treat their wastewater.” Rural locations with limited access to public municipal sewers are common among households who rely on septic tank systems for waste disposal.

What is a drainfield?

Once wastewater has been discharged from the septic tank, it is sent to the drainfield. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a drainfield is a “shallow, covered excavation” in the soil that serves as part of a septic system. It is also referred to as a “leachfield” in some circles. It is possible for the drainfield to flood if it becomes swamped by wastewater and/or outside fluids. This has the potential to cause a sewage backlog.

Why is septic system maintenance so important?

Given the high cost of replacing a septic system, regular maintenance is essential to maintaining your septic system (and your money) in good working order. When it comes to caring for and maintaining your septic system, the more proactive you are, the longer your septic system will endure. In order to keep your septic tank in good working order, it is important to avoid the accumulation of sediments as well as any groundwater pollution.

How often should I have my septic system pumped?

The size of your household, total wastewater generated, amount of solids present and tank size will all determine how often your septic system will need to be pumped. As reported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while the average septic system is pumped every three years, those that have “electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more frequently.” In general, we recommend that you have your septic system inspected and pumped once a year to ensure that it is operating safely.

Below is an easy four-step maintenance program, which, if followed carefully, will prevent solid build-up and ensure that your system will operate at peak efficiency for many years to come.

4 Steps to Septic System Maintenance

To avoid the buildup of solids in a septic system, each residence should adhere to a regular septic service plan. Step 1: Responsible Pumping The frequency of service varies from home to household, so be sure to contact your professional for their recommendation on how often your septic system should be pumped. Step 2 – High-Pressure Water Jetting — Regardless of how well a septic system is maintained, sediments and other debris will build up in the drain pipes over time. The presence of these materials causes the lines that link the septic tank to the drainfield to become clogged and ineffective. Because of this, we recommend that you get your system cleaned with high-pressure water jetting every five years to remove and clear any debris that might hinder your system from functioning correctly. The third step is to use a bacteria additive. Septic system owners should use a live organic bacteria additive that breaks down the presence of artificial compounds and solids, such as detergents and soap, that might occasionally enter your septic system. Step 4 – Use a Bacteria Additive Upon entering your septic system, these common home chemicals destroy the naturally occurring bacteria that are necessary for the system to work correctly. Bacteria additives are a low-cost insurance policy that helps to keep your pipes clean, clear, and odor-free, as well as your system operating effectively. 4) Install an Effluent Filter – Your filter, which keeps particles from entering your drainfield, has to be cleaned or changed at least once a year, or more frequently if your system is in need of repair. Some older systems might not have a filter installed in them. Please notify your technician if your septic system does not have a filter.

Septic System Dos

We recommend that you get your septic system inspected by a service specialist once a year to ensure that it is operating effectively. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, residential septic systems should be drained every three to five years. Septic system pumping frequency should be determined by a professional. Pumping a septic system when it is necessary will help to keep it from failing completely.

Do maintain your drainfield

Avoid growing gardens or trees near your drainfield if you want to keep it in good condition. Growing roots and brushing up against your septic system will be prevented in this manner. You should also avoid parking vehicles directly on top of your drainfield.

Do limit the amount of stuff you put down your garbage disposal

The greater the amount of rubbish you put down the garbage disposal, the greater the likelihood that your septic system will be damaged. If you want to prevent clogging your system, avoid flushing cooking oil, coffee grinds, and lipids down the garbage disposal. Instead, place these objects in the garbage to be disposed of.

Do buy high-efficiency appliances

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, proper water use can help your septic system run more efficiently. In other words, the more water you waste (via clogged toilets, excessive use of your washing machine, and so on), the more water will enter your septic system. This has the ability to inflict harm as well as drainfield floods. The most straightforward method of preventing water waste is to use high-efficiency equipment. Look for Energy Starappliances, which utilize half the amount of water that conventional appliances consume.

Do save inspection reportsmaintenance records

When having their septic system repaired, homeowners should make a point of saving any and all maintenance records and inspection reports. A full report on prospective or actual leaks, as well as scum levels and potential damage, should be included in inspections of this nature. If there has been damage recorded, you should contact an expert repairman as soon as possible to get it repaired.

Septic System Don’ts

Avoid flushing anything down the toilet that isn’t toilet paper in order to avoid causing damage to your system. Other products, such as toilet paper, are not meant to break down and dissolve in septic tanks, unlike toilet paper. The majority of goods that are labeled as “flushable” should not be flushed down the toilet. Items that should not be flushed down the toilet, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, include cooking fat or oil, flushable wipes, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, diapers, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, paper towels, and cat litter, to name a few.

Don’t hire a septic system repairman who isn’t qualified

Do you require the services of a local repairman? Search the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s network of service providers to discover a specialist that is knowledgeable and qualified in their field.

Don’t pour chemicals down the drain

A local repairman is needed, and you may find one here. The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s network of service providers can be used to locate an experienced and qualified technician.

Don’t waste water

Conserving water is the most straightforward method of keeping a septic system operating efficiently.

Some simple ways to save water include purchasing Energy Star appliances, replacing leaking faucets, and repairing toilets that are running.

Don’t put rainwater drainage systems near your drainfield

Your first aim should be to keep any objects off of and away from the drainfield area. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, surplus precipitation from a drainage system, such as a roof drain, might cause extra water to pool near your drainfield. As a result, the treatment process in your septic system will be significantly slowed.

Household Features That Affect Your Septic System

It is surprising how many people are unaware that the use of common appliances can have a detrimental impact on the condition of their septic system. Hot tubs, trash disposals, washing machines, toilets, and showerheads are all examples of household fixtures that might reduce the effectiveness of your septic system if they are used frequently.

A hot tub owner should be aware that removing the water from their hot tub all at once might cause harm to their septic system. As stated by Pipeline, “hot tub water should instead be cooled and then drained onto grass or landscaped sections of your property well away from the septic tank, drainfield, or residence in compliance with local rules.” The use of a trash disposal is not recommended for homes with freestanding septic systems since they might cause damage to the system. The elimination of the usage of a trash disposal will significantly reduce the amount of particles and scum that accumulates in your septic tank. In the event that you do use a trash disposal, you will almost certainly need to pump your septic system more frequently than people who do not utilize this house amenity. machine to wash clothes (washing machine) According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average single-family house uses roughly 70 gallons per person every day. That is a significant amount of water. Unfortunately, the greater the amount of water consumed by your household, the more overburdened your septic system will be. It raises the likelihood of failure of a septic system when it is overburdened. Those who have a septic system should restrict the quantity of laundry they wash in a single day in order to avoid this from happening. They should also use Energy Starwashing machines, which use 45 percent less water than ordinary washers
And a toilet – Do you hear your toilet flushing? If so, you should call your plumber. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a toilet that is always running or leaking can waste up to 200 gallons of water every day. Yikes. Your power bill will rise as a result, and the amount of water in your septic system will increase as well. It is simple to prevent this from happening by replacing outdated toilets with high-efficiency toilets. Changing your showerhead — It may be time to replace your old showerhead with a modern, higher-efficiency one. These showerheads aid in reducing the quantity of water that seeps into your septic system by restricting the flow of water.

Other Septic Tank Maintenance Tips

At least once every one to three years, have a professional septic system specialist visit to your home to evaluate your tank and do any necessary repairs. When the technician comes, he or she will take note of the amount of scum in the tank. These levels should provide you with an indication of when and how frequently you will need to pump your septic system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “if the top of the scum layer is within 12 inches of the outflow, your tank should be pumped.”

How do I know if my septic system is failing?

Inspect your septic tank at least once every one to three years by a certified septic system specialist who will come to your home. They will take note of the scum levels in the tank when they come at your house. You should be able to tell from these readings when and how often you’ll need to pump your septic tank. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “if the top of the scum layer is within 12 inches of the exit, your tank requires pumping.”

What do I do if my septic system backs up?

A sewage backup into your home is the last thing you want (or anyone wants, for that matter). The failure to maintain your septic system properly, on the other hand, might result in this. Assuming this occurs, you and your family should avoid coming into touch with the sewage. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, sewage that has backed up into your house may include hazardous diseases and nasty bacteria. Call your local health department instead of attempting to clean it up yourself to notify them of the collapse of your septic system.

If you have any possessions that have come into touch with sewage, be sure to clean them off and disinfect them.

7 Tips to Take Care of Your Septic System

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Maintaining a home’s septic system may seem like a daunting and stinky task, but it’s really not. Being mindful of what you’re doing inside the home will keep the system healthy.

Preventing and treating problems with your septic system is not difficult and does not have to be expensive. Failure to maintain your septic system, on the other hand, might result in significant financial loss, since digging up and rebuilding a septic system can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

What Is a Septic System?

Because it handles all of the wastewater that comes from your home, including the water from the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room, if your home is not connected to a municipal water and sewer system, your septic system is essential. Septic systems are generally comprised of a tank, into which wastewater is channeled for treatment and the particles are separated from the liquid.

Microorganisms break down the organic stuff in wastewater, allowing it to be recycled. A perforated pipe system transports wastewater from there to a drain or leach field, which collects the effluent. Either the wastewater will evaporate or it will seep into the surrounding land.

Get Familiar With Your Septic System

Understanding how your septic tank works, what sort of system it is, and where it is placed are all important first steps in proper maintenance. The county or town should keep a record of the permit, as well as a chart showing the tank’s layout and placement, because state rules demand a permit for septic system installation. Visual clues, such as sewage covers, or the direction in which the sewer pipe, which is located in the basement, runs out of the home, may be able to assist you in your search.

Have It Pumped Routinely

Every three to five years, the ordinary residential septic system should be pumped (that is, the sediments should be removed). According on the size of the tank, the typical price of pumping a residential septic tank is between $300 and $600. When you contact a septic service company, they will also inspect your septic tank for leaks and evaluate the sludge layers in your tank for any problems. Remember to save a copy of any maintenance paperwork pertaining to work performed on your septic tank.

Spread Your Washing Machine/Dishwasher Usage Throughout the Week

You may believe that scheduling a “laundry day,” during which you wash all of your clothing and possibly even run your dishwasher, would save you time. However, it puts a great deal of strain on your septic system. If you don’t allow your septic system enough time to process the wastewater, you risk overloading the system and flooding your drainfield with wastewater. Replace this with doing a full load of laundry (to ensure that you are not wasting water) a couple of times a week.

Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Can

The only item that should be flushed down the toilet that does not come out of your body is toilet paper. Everything else should be discarded. This implies that there will be no tissues, diapers, feminine items, hair, dental floss, or anything else. Toilet paper is supposed to decompose in the septic tank after it has been used. Any additional materials are not permitted; they will clog and cause harm to your septic tank. Make sure you use toilet paper that is safe for use with your septic system.

Think About What You Dump Down the Kitchen Sink Drain

We flush a variety of items down the kitchen sink that might cause serious damage to a septic system. Never flush objects down the sink drain, including coffee grounds, eggshells, medicine, produce stickers, flour, and other such items. All of these things can clog pipes and cause screens to get obstructed. Do not dispose of any oil, including cooking oils and paint, grease, and fat since these substances will block your sewer line and cause it to back up into your home. Even dairy products such as milk, cream, and butter are harmful if they are flushed down the toilet.

When you use a garbage disposal in conjunction with a septic tank, the ground-up food particles contribute to the layer of solids that accumulates at the bottom of the tank’s bottom.

Therefore, householders must exercise extra caution to ensure that only biodegradable food waste is flushed down the garbage disposal.

Be Careful With Cleaning Chemicals

Cleaning agents that homeowners use can be harmful to the beneficial microorganisms in their septic systems. When washing textiles, avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach. If you absolutely must, use only a little quantity of the product. Use of drain cleaners is discouraged since, in addition to destroying beneficial bacteria, they can cause harm to the tank itself. Alternatively, if a plunger does not work, a toilet drain snake, which is also effective on clogged kitchen and bathroom sinks, may be used.

Quaternary ammonia is also present in antibacterial soaps and disinfectants, which should be avoided.

Protect Your Drainfield

As previously said, proper management of your drainfield begins with careful monitoring of water consumption and the materials that enter your septic system. Never drive or park a vehicle on top of your drainage system. Make certain that gutters and sump pumps discharge water far enough away from the drainfield to prevent flooding. Avoid growing trees and bushes in close proximity to the drainfield since the roots of these plants might interfere with the pipes.

Maintaining Your Septic System – PlumbingSupply.com

When a septic system is in good working order, it’s simple to forget everything about it. After all, who wants to ruminate on such a thing? However, living with a septic system demands commitment and a sharp recall (or service plan). Fortunately, the primary responsibility of the homeowner in the maintenance of a septic system is to remember to call in the specialists on a regular basis. Aside from filthy labour, there are a variety of behaviors and techniques that may assist to extend the life of a system and improve its performance over time.

If you’re not acquainted with how a septic system works, have a look at How a Septic System Works.

The (Very) Basics

The first thing we have to say is something you’ve probably heard a hundred times before: the toilet is not the garbage can. The only items that should be flushed are water, body waste, and toilet paper. Everything else should be discarded. If you do anything else, you face the danger of clogged drains, tank damage, and/or damage to the drain fields. One of the easiest and most useful things you can do is to place a trash bin beside the toilet for all of the other items that need to be disposed of after using the toilet.

Also, bear in mind that toilet paper that is overly thick can take up unneeded space in the septic tank and, if not regularly pumped, can even cause backups in the system.

It’s best to test it first by mixing it with some water and shaking it. If it dissolves quickly, you should be ready to go. If not, you should consult your local septic professional.

Water Use

It is even more necessary to save water when using septic systems since they treat wastewater on-site rather than transferring it to huge, specialized facilities. A septic tank can only store so much water, and a drain field can only be so broad. Using an excessive amount of water will overfill the tank, reducing the amount of time available for the separation of solids. Increased solid waste entering the drain field can result in blockages and failure as a result of this practice. Install as many water-efficient fixtures as you can, and avoid running heavy users such as dishwashers and washing machines at the same time, in order to save water and save money.

Most crucial, locate and seal any leaks that may exist.

“Waste” Management

What about the rest of the garbage that gets flushed down the toilet? Septic systems are tough and durable, but only up to a point, and then they fail. Damage and failure can occur more quickly than you might expect when there is a steady stream of hair, food scraps, FOG (fats, oils, and grease) and harsh chemicals. Fortunately, keeping the majority of this garbage out of your septic system and in the trash, where it goes, isn’t that tough. Strainers, screens, or filters – whatever you choose to call them, they should be installed over your drains!

And while we are all familiar with lint traps for the dryer, did you realize that washing machines also spew up lint?
This can result in system failure.

As long as we’re talking about cleaning – whether it’s drain cleaning, washing, or anything else – there are occasions when powerful cleansers, bleach, or antibacterial items are required.
Chemotherapeutic agents that are harsh on germs can be fatal to your system.
What do you think about system additives and treatments for your equipment?

The addition of new colonies occurs with each flush of solid waste!” Having said that, additives based on bacteria and/or enzymes (such as Roebic K-37) will not cause harm to the system.

Those who employ powerful chemicals have a very restricted scope of use and should be avoided unless specifically suggested by an expert.

A quick note about FOG.

Bacon fever will never come to an end. The most obvious benefit of this is the availability of bacon. The drawback is that grease is involved. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to store all of it for later use (although your heart hopes you will), and your home is unlikely to include a grease trap. So, what do you do with bacon drippings or any other type of drippings? Whatever you do, don’t flush anything down the toilet; instead, clean it out or pour it into something and throw it away. FOG is always detrimental to pipes, since it increases scum and sludge in the tank and has the potential to cause drain field issues.

Septic Tank Pumping

There is an even more significant maintenance chore that should not and cannot be ignored in addition to these habits and “best practices”: pumping away the accumulation of scum and sludge that has developed inside of the tank. Yes, sludge builds up quickly in a septic tank and will eventually cause the system to collapse if it is not pumped on a regular basis. How regular is it? It is dependent on the home as well as the operating system (mound systems usually require more frequent pumping).

The only way to find out is to have your system inspected by an expert on a regular basis.

Even simply raising the lid and standing over it might be hazardous: fumes emitted by the tank have been known to knock individuals unconscious!

Make certain that the tank’s manholes are accessible and that they are covered with a solid, child-resistant cover.

Drain Field Maintenance

It should be possible to avoid one of the most devastating septic scenarios: a blocked – and ultimately failing – drain field by following good practices and performing regular tank pumping. Despite the fact that the vast majority of solid waste is handled in tanks, some does get it to the field. It is common for bacteria and other organisms in the earth to make rapid work of any organism that passes through them. When a tank needs to be pumped but isn’t, sludge accumulates in the tank. Incoming wastewater passes through the system more quickly, bringing particles with it onto the field with it.

The presence of foul odours, puddles, damp places, and exceptionally lush plant growth over a field may suggest the presence of a problem.
There isn’t much else that the drain field is responsible for than ensuring sure the tank is pumped.

For example, trees.
Trees must be at least 30 feet apart, and in certain cases, much more away depending on the kind.
Planting grass and herbaceous plants over a drain field are the only things that should be done in this situation.

In addition, make certain that discharges from pumps and rain gutter downspouts are directed away from the field in order to avoid over-saturation of the soil.

The weight compacts the soil, lowering the amount of oxygen available to the creatures under the surface and making it more difficult for water to flow. In the same way, excessive foot traffic (whether human or otherwise) should be avoided.

Final Thoughts

Yes, there are several things you can, should, and must do with a septic system. As long as you at the very least adhere to the “must” of frequent tank pumpings, your system should operate satisfactorily. When it comes to boosting system longevity, the shoulds – eliminating bad behaviors and developing new ones – are your greatest option for lowering the quantity and severity of issues you face within that lifespan. Taking these simple precautions is definitely worth it, especially considering the high expense of septic system repair.

This material is intended to be general in nature and may not be applicable to all applications.

Always double-check local code rules and the appropriate authorities before starting a project of any kind.

Tips for Keeping Your Septic System Running Smoothly

While it’s doubtful that the average homeowner would give their septic system much attention until it begins to back up, following a few easy recommendations will assist to guarantee that you don’t have to have the system pumped as frequently and that you have fewer septic crises.

Be Careful of What You Put in Your Septic System

For your septic tank to work correctly, just like your own digestive system does, it must have a healthy mix of microorganisms. The bacteria carry out their task by decomposing the waste that enters the system. Here are some examples of common compounds that might cause problems with this process and should never be allowed to enter your septic tank:

The use of grease or oils in the kitchen might result in a buildup of inactive scum. The use of drain cleaners will destroy the beneficial bacteria in your tank, even in little amounts. Hazardous home chemicals such as paint thinner, antifreeze, and gasoline must be disposed of at the hazardous waste collection center in your town. The use of antibacterial soap necessitates careful label reading.

In spite of the fact that there are several additives on the market that are supposed to clean out your system, these treatments are considered a “unnecessary evil” by the National Environmental Services Center in their article “Maintaining Your Septic System — A Guide for Homeowners.”

Be Aware That Appliances May Affect Your System

Hot tubs and water softeners have the potential to discharge hundreds of gallons of water into your septic system at once, stirring up the collected sediments and forcing them into the drainfield, causing the system to overflow and collapse. To begin, allow the water from your hot tub to cool before draining it directly into the lawn. Water softeners also have the added disadvantage of causing salt to accumulate in the septic system. Always seek advice from an expert when it comes to safely routing water from a water softener.

Septic systems can fail even when properly cared for and maintained by a professional.

Portable toilets and bathroom trailers that are kept up to the highest standards are available to customers around the greater Washington, D.C.

How To Use Your Septic System: Do’s and Don’ts

Maintaining the proper operation of your septic system might appear to be a difficult undertaking at first. The stakes are quite high! Failure to properly maintain your system may result in extremely expensive repairs or smelly sewage backups, so it’s critical that you do everything you can to prevent these dangers. When you understand how something works, it becomes much simpler to deal with it. This is true for most things. Prior to reading this article on the Do’s and Don’ts of septic system maintenance, you may want to learn more about If you understand why the basic standards we present in this post are vital, you will have a better understanding of why they are necessary.

Our comprehensive list of Dos and Don’ts of septic system maintenance can relieve you of the burden of worrying about whether or not your system is operating as efficiently as it should. Here are some ideas to help you maintain your system operating at peak performance.

DO’s

A high-quality septic treatment can enrich your septic tank’s bacteria population with beneficial microorganisms. These bacteria will aid in the breakdown of the solid waste contained within your tank, allowing your septic system to perform its function properly. Tanks will fill up too rapidly if solid waste is allowed to remain in them for an extended period of time, necessitating more frequent (and more expensive) tank pump outs. We propose using Unique Septic System Digester, which is a good septic treatment that will help you to lengthen the time between pump outs by breaking down solid waste more efficiently within your tank.

A proper septic treatment is also essential in the prevention of difficult obstructions and filthy sewage backups, both of which may be quite unpleasant.

You might wind up with a clogged septic field if you don’t properly break up the sediments.

Overall, employing a septic treatment product such as Septic System Digesterwill assist your septic system in performing its functions efficiently.

Dohave your system pumped regularly.

Your septic system will eventually become overburdened with waste, and the garbage will need to be manually removed from the system. The services of a trash pumping company may assist you in emptying the garbage from your septic tank. While the majority of individuals have their tanks pumped once every three years, we recommend having your system evaluated in order to determine the most appropriate pumping frequency for your unique system.

Dohave your system inspected frequently, or learn how to inspect it yourself.

It is critical to examine your septic tank on a regular basis to determine how much waste is present in the tank. A tank that has overfilled will begin to back up into your plumbing and (in the worst case scenario) into your home! As you can see, it is critical to regularly inspect your septic system to ensure that it is operating correctly.

Doknow and mark where your septic lid is found.

Septic lids are frequently buried between 4 inches and 4 feet below ground level. You may use a metal probe to find the lid of your septic tank by following the main sewage line to your septic tank and from there. By lifting the lid, you will be able to view into your septic tank and do an inspection.

Dospread out water usage.

Doing one load of laundry a day is preferable to doing five loads in a single day. It is critical to provide the bacteria in your tank the time they require to decompose trash and drain off excess wastewater before you use your tank. The water in a tank can seep out of any and all holes, including your septic lid and even your domestic drains and toilet, if the tank is completely submerged.

This can result in blocked pipes, ruined topsoil, and, in general, a great deal of inconvenience for you and your family. As a result, it’s critical to save water and allow your tank the time it needs to complete its task.

Doinform houseguests that you are on a home septic system, and give them a few guidelines to follow.

It may be inconvenient, but a system backup is also inconvenient. Several of these might be printed to assist tell your guests about your particular septic guidelines.

DON’Ts

We understand that flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper might be enticing and appear to be innocuous, but doing so can cause significant damage to your septic system and cause you a slew of headaches. The fact is that, while toilet paper and waste are quickly decomposed by the bacteria in your holding tank, items such as dental floss, contact lenses, feminine hygiene products, condoms, and antibacterial wipes are not decomposed as quickly (or at all! ), resulting in clogs and even potential environmental harm.

Don’tuse antibacterial products or harsh cleaning agents.

These solutions frequently have the exact opposite effect of what you want in your septic tank, which is undesirable. You want bacteria (particularly the appropriate sort of bacteria!) to thrive in your septic system, and these products are intended specifically to kill bacteria. The use of these items will kill microorganisms, which means that toilet paper and waste will not be able to be broken down, which will result in clogs and backups for you!

Don’tdrive or park vehicles or machinery on your leach field.

An underground network of lateral lines (PVC pipes) helps to drain wastewater from your septic tank and is hidden beneath the surface of the ground. Due to the shallow depth of the lateral lines in your septic system, big trucks can easily harm your septic system by crushing the lateral lines or compressing the soil surrounding them, preventing wastewater from properly dispersing into the earth.

Don’tplant trees or shrubs on your leach field.

Planting trees and bushes on your leach field might cause harm to your lateral line system, which is similar to the preceding “don’t.” The roots of trees and shrubs are deeper and stronger than the roots of grass or wildflowers, and they have the ability to crack lateral lines in the soil.

Don’tbuild structures on your leach field.

Heavy constructions such as buildings, once again, have the potential to crush lateral lines and compress the soil in the leach field. The presence of huge, heavy impediments in your leach field should be avoided at all costs.

Don’tuse a garbage disposal or pour food waste (particularly greases) down the drain.

The accumulation of solid waste is the enemy of a well maintained septic system, so why expose yourself to the risk of developing difficulties by utilizing a trash disposal that encourages you to flush more solids down the drain? It doesn’t matter how nicely you slice and dice your solids with a trash disposal; the truth is that you are adding solid waste to your septic tank, which might result in major problems down the road. Simply avoiding using your garbage disposal is the best course of action.

Even while a high-quality septic treatment will aid in the breakdown and reduction of grease within your tank, it is preferable to attempt to avoid it entirely if possible.

The grease will build up over time, and objects such as hair or debris will become entangled in the grease, ultimately accumulating to the point where it will obstruct water passage through your lines.

We hope that our list of Do’s and Don’ts for septic systems has been of assistance to you! Alternatively, you may reach out to us at [email protected] if you have any more questions or if you require assistance with your system at home. We’re always willing to lend a hand!

Caring For An Older Septic System

The date is June 12, 2020. Special considerations must be made when purchasing an older septic system, whether it is for your present home or a future dream house with an older septic system in place. There are several things to check for when purchasing a property with an older septic system. We also address basic care standards for older septic tanks and leach fields that are in need of replacement. Although no septic system is guaranteed to live forever, with a little tender loving care, your septic system might provide many more years of service.