You may have recently achieved a huge milestone of buying a house for the first time. As you settle into your home, one essential aspect that may be new to you is the septic system. Unlike homes connected to city sewer lines, homes with septic systems require special care and maintenance.
Here is a short guide on basics of septic system care to ensure that your new home’s wastewater management runs smoothly.
Understand Your Septic System
Before diving into care tips, it’s crucial to understand how your septic system works. At its core, a septic system consists of three main parts: the septic tank, the drain field, and the soil beneath.
Wastewater from your home flows into the septic tank, where solids settle at the bottom and liquids move into the drain field for absorption by the soil. Learning about these components will help you appreciate the importance of proper maintenance.
Schedule Inspections
One of the first steps you should take as a new homeowner is to schedule a professional septic system inspection. An experienced technician can assess the condition of your system, identify any existing issues, and provide recommendations for maintenance.
Make sure to call professional drain cleaning fall river ma services who can offer great customer service. Regular inspections every 3-5 years can extend the life of your septic system.
Mind What You Flush
To keep your septic system healthy, be mindful of what you flush down your drains and toilets. Avoid disposing of non-biodegradable items like paper towels, sanitary products, diapers, and cooking grease.
These items can clog your system and lead to costly repairs. Stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper.
Conserve Water
Conserving water is not only environmentally responsible but also beneficial for your septic system. Excessive water usage can overwhelm the tank and disrupt the natural breakdown of solids.
Fix leaky faucets and consider investing in water-saving appliances to reduce your household water consumption.
Use Septic-Safe Products
Choose septic-safe cleaning products, detergents, and toiletries. These products are designed to break down more easily in your septic system, minimizing the strain on the tank and promoting efficient wastewater treatment. Look for labels that indicate they are safe for septic systems.
Avoid Heavy Water Usage
Avoid heavy water usage all at once, as it can overload your septic system. For example, avoid doing multiple loads of laundry in quick succession. Spacing out water usage allows the system to process wastewater more effectively.
Protect Your Drain Field
The drain field is a critical component of your septic system. Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on top of it, as this can compact the soil and disrupt the drainage process.
Plant grass or other shallow-rooted vegetation in the drain field area to help absorb excess moisture.
Pump Your Septic Tank
Septic tanks require periodic pumping to remove accumulated solids. The frequency depends on factors such as household size, water usage, and tank size.
Typically, a septic tank should be pumped every 3-5 years. Your inspection technician can provide guidance on the ideal schedule for your specific system.