How To Care For Your Septic Tank and System
There are many ways septic system owners can help improve and extend the life of their existing systems.
The following tips for a clean and trouble-free septic system, by Janet Wickell, are only some of the precautions that can be taken:
Divert Rainwater From the Septic Drainfield
- A soggy drainfield won't absorb and neutralize liquid waste. Plan landscaping, roof gutters and foundation drains so that excess water is diverted away from the septic drainfield.
- Check faucets and toilets for leaks; make repairs if necessary.
- Use aerators on faucets and flow reducer nozzles on showers to help lower water consumption.
- Reduce water levels for small loads of laundry.
- Wait until the dishwasher is full to run it.
- Use a displacer to reduce the amount of water needed to flush the toilet.
Keep Trees Away from the Septic System
- Discourage root damage by keeping trees at least 100 feet away from the septic system.
- Trees with very aggressive roots, such as willows, should be even farther away from the system.
The Toilet Isn’t a Garbage Disposal
- Never flush cat litter, disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, paper towels, facial tissues, coffee grounds, or cigarette butts and filters. They'll clog your septic tank in less time than you might imagine.
- A garbage disposal can double the amount of solids added to a septic tank. Choose a top-line disposal that grinds food into tiny particles that are easier for a system to digest.
Minimize Heavy Cleaners
- Overuse of heavy cleaners kills beneficial bacteria in the septic tank, so solids won't break down as well.
- Don't use anti-bacterial soaps, detergents or cleaners
Do Not Pour Grease Down the Drain
- Grease can clog the septic drainfield, making it impossible for soil to absorb liquids. If that happens you'll need a new drainfield.
Avoid Hazardous Chemicals
- Varnish, paint thinners, motor oils, gasoline and other similar chemicals can ruin your system and are a hazard to groundwater. Dispose of them properly.
Protect the System from Damage
- Do not drive over the drainfield, build a structure on top of it, or cover it with concrete or asphalt.
- Do plant grass on the drainfield to minimize soil erosion.
Perform Regular Maintenance
- Solids must eventually be pumped from the tank. Many experts advise a family of four with a 1,000 gallon septic tank to have the tank pumped after 3-5 years of full time use. Other experts say you can go much longer between pumping operations. Never attempt to open a septic tank yourself. Gases and bacteria in it are dangerous.
Signs of a Failing Septic System
- The signs of failure are obvious: Sewage odours, slow-draining toilets or drains, and lush grass or slimy sewage over the septic field, especially after a rainstorm or in a wet spring.
Ten Easy Steps for a Healthy Septic System
These basic, practical Do's and Don'ts for regular maintenance are very easy to remember and to implement:
- Locate and map your tank and field (perhaps with your Health Department's help) and keep a record of work done to the system.
- Pump your tank every 2 to 3 years to prevent scum and sludge from clogging your field - more often if soils and heavy use warrant it.
- Conserve water to avoid flooding the system. Fix leaks, stagger laundry loads each day, avoid long showers, use water restrictors in showers, faucets, and toilets.
- Don't discharge water from hot tubs or other highly chlorinated water into the system.
- Do not pollute or clog your tank with hazardous chemicals or non-biodegradable elements: No grease, diapers, feminine sanitary products, kitty litter; no gas, paint thinner, oil paint, pesticides, antifreeze. Do not use tank additives. Use bleach, drain, and toilet cleaners sparingly lest they kill the good bacteria that cleanse the effluent.
- Don't use a garbage disposal. The tiny particles it creates will clog fields. If you must use one, pump more frequently.
- Don't discharge water softeners to the system. Increased salts in the groundwater can elevate pressure and be hazardous to health.
- Direct surface water away from your tank and septic field.
- Prevent heavy machinery and vehicles from driving over your tank and drainfields, thereby crushing the piping and compacting the soil. Plant and mow grass over your fields, avoid bushes and trees that can clog and break your pipes and fields.
- Use a licensed professional for any septic repair or service. Your Health Department can give reputable companies.
Checklist for Good Septic Tank Maintenance
- Check annually for leaks and sludge
- Pump by licensed contractors
- Conserve water and fix leaks
- Keep a map and maintenance record
- Follow proper disposal and usage guidelines