Septic tanks may not be a pleasant topic to think about, but for many people, they are a necessity. Every family that lives in a less developed town or a rural area has a private or community septic tank.
Unlike city sewer systems, the private family or is responsible for any repairs or mishaps that may occur. For this reason it is important know the Do’s and Don’ts of Septic tanks to prolong your septic tank’s life.
Do’s
Pump Your Tank
It is important to pump your Septic tank every 3-5 years. In a perfect world, the natural bacteria would eat all the sludge and solids deposited into the tank.
However, this is not a perfect world. Most of the time there is plenty more solid waste than bacteria can handle. After a few years it is a good idea to have a professional come and pump the whole tank. It’s like having a fresh start.
Conserve Water
Septic Tanks are designed to handle large amounts of water. However, they work much better if the limits aren’t tested too much.
Installing water conservation shower heads and faucets in the bathrooms and kitchen can help a great deal.
Also, taking showers instead of baths can save a lot of water as well. Another water consumer is the toilet. Some toilets take 5 gallons or more per flush.
Newer toilets use 1.5-2 gallons to flush and are much easier on a septic tank system.
Fully Load Washers
Most households have clothes washers, and some houses have dishwashers. Before running these two appliances, make sure they are filled to their capacity.
For instance, a dishwasher will use the same amount of water if it is half full as it will if it is full. This wastes water.
If you have a clothes washer that has an adjustable water level, use it if you are not washing a full load. Not only will these tips this save water, but also energy and money.
Don’ts
Poisonous Cleansers
Bacteria is imperative for the proper functioning septic tank. Cleansers that can poison a person can kill bacteria as well. If you kill all the bacteria in your septic tank, the sludge and solids will build up and eventually back up into your house. Using less harsh chemicals that say caution are more environmentally friendly for your septic tank.
Every Flush Toilet Cleaners
It is unpleasant to think about, but much of the bacteria that keeps a septic tank running comes from human feces that are flushed down the toilet. If you use a toilet cleaner that sends down antibacterial detergent during every flush, you are killing very important bacteria. It is better for your septic tank to clean your toilet only when it is needed.
Depositing Food Down the Sink
Septic tanks are not designed to treat many undigested foods. Even homes with garbage disposals should be aware that anything going down the garbage disposal is still solid, just a smaller solid. Also, Fats and greases should NEVER be thrown down a sink.
Before your Septic tank contractor leaves, ask him/her if there is anything specific to your system that you should know about. If there is not, This Septic Tank Do’s and Don’ts guide should help you prolong the life of your waste system.