1-2-3 maintenance tips for septic tanks

1) Have your septic tank system inspected and pumped regularly

Sludge in large quantities can only be eliminated by a professional pumper. You should have a pumper inspect your septic system to determine if the accumulation of solid waste is too high and needs to be removed. It is recommend the average septic system should be inspected every 3-5 years. Five key factors that influence the frequency with which you'll need to have your septic system pumped: household size, total wastewater generated, volume of solids in wastewater, products used and septic tank size.

2) Watch what you pour down the drains

The eco-system of the septic tank is very delicate. Some household chemicals like bleach and anti-bacterial soaps can kill beneficial bacteria, so you should avoid flushing them down your drains. According to the EPA, flushing or pouring the wrong items-things like cooking oil, grease, toxic cleaners, baby wipes, hand sanitizer products, diapers, feminine products and paints-into your septic system can also increase how often you need to have your septic tank pumped by a professional.

Monitor how much water enters your septic system each day. By conserving the amount of water you use in the home, you can improve the operation of your septic system and reduce the risk of septic system failure. Reduce the amount of wastewater entering your septic system by using high-efficiency toilets and shower heads, faucet aerators, and proper laundry technique. Also be sure that you are selecting the correct load size and products when using your washing machine, and try to spread out your use of the machine throughout the week. Overuse of your washing machine can potentially damage your septic system's drain field, the most expensive component of your septic system.

3) Use a Septic Tank System Treatment monthly

These products are available in three formulas: gelpacs, powder and liquid. All formulas will work to help reduce the rate of sludge build-up to keep your septic system running smoothly until the next pumping. Septic Tank System Treatments contain billions of bacteria and enzymes specifically selected to help septic systems.

A STORY: Years ago Dan and Daisy Cainan owned the building at the north side of town, on the corner of the highway and Cedar Ln. It was a tiny grocery store without choices in products. One brand of this and one brand of that. As the town population increased, this became an issue with the newer residents that wanted fancier toilet paper. You know the one the bears use for example (Charmin). Finally there on the counter were three pie plates and three different rolls of TP. The old single layer cheapy, the fancy quilted one and a mid-grade. When someone asked about buying the fancy one, Dan would tear off a piece of each, put them in their respective pie plate with water and send the customer off to shop. At the check out, he'd show them the cheapy was already dissolved and the fancy one was still intact. He'd say this is why we use the cheapy, it is kinder to your septic system.

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