About 25% of Americans utilize septic tanks. If you own a septic tank system, you should commit to maintaining it.
Research has shown that older systems can wear out after anywhere between 20 and 100 years. But you can avoid premature wear and tear simply by taking care of the pipes.
In fact, you can mount a ball valve in your septic tank and save a great deal of manual effort. Alternatively, you can consider running pipes from the tank to your home so you can take advantage of municipal wastewater systems.
Read on for some plumbing tips for your septic tank maintenance schedule.
Regularly Inspect the System for Leaks
There are a few things you can do to help maintain your septic tank and keep it working properly. One of the most important things is to regularly inspect the system for leaks. Check the tank and all the connections regularly for any signs of leaks or damage.
Even a small leak can cause problems, so it’s best to catch them early. If you find a leak, contact a professional septic tank service to get repair services as soon as possible.
Limit Household Waste and Water Usage
Every year, millions of gallons of sewage are released into the environment because of failing septic systems. A properly maintained septic tank can last for decades but requires regular pump-outs and inspections to prevent problems.
Keep in mind to limit the amount of water that goes into the septic tank. Excess water can overload the system and cause it to fail.
Also, avoid putting anything into the septic tank that doesn’t break down easily. This includes grease, oil, coffee grounds, and food scraps.
Pump the Septic Tank as Needed
Septic pumping is necessary every three to five years or as needed. Keep track of the amount of water your family uses on a daily basis, as well as the size of your septic tank.
If you have usage of 320 gallons or more per day, you’ll need to pump your septic tank more often. Watch for signs that your septic tank needs to be pumped, such as plumbing problems like sewage backing up into your home, slow drains, or soggy ground around your tank.
Keep the Septic Tank Lids Closed and Easily Accessible
If you have a septic tank, you should make sure that the lids are always closed and easily accessible. This will help keep the tank from getting clogged and will also prevent any odors from escaping. If you have any problems with your septic tank, you should contact a professional plumber to come and take a look at it.
Keep These Plumbing Tips in Mind for Successful Septic Tank Maintenance
For sure, you don’t want to run into any issues in your home, especially when it concerns the septic tank. This is why it is imperative that you properly maintain it to keep plumbing problems at bay.
Proper septic tank maintenance is vital to the health of your plumbing system. Be sure to have your septic tank inspected and pumped regularly to avoid any issues. If you have any questions about septic tank maintenance, be sure to ask a professional for plumbing tips.
Did you enjoy these maintenance tips? Search the rest of our site for more informative articles!