How to Prevent Septic Problems Outside a House
One of the most expensive home repairs you are likely to encounter over your years in your house is rebuilding or replacing a septic system. Avoid costly and environmentally disruptive repairs by maintaining your system from the outside in. Here are a few tips to help you keep the outside part of your septic system safe. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Find out exactly where your septic field and/or tank are located. If you did not have it installed, your neighbors may remember when and where it was put underground. You can also check the county health records to find it.
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If you smell an unpleasant odor near your plumbing or see anything backing up into your sinks, tubs or toilets, you can suspect septic problems.
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Make sure not to overload your drainage field by directing your roof drainpipes, pool or sump pump into the area where your septic lies.
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Do not park vehicles, place above-ground pools, or build driveways or decks over your septic system.
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Do not allow trees or large bushes to grow on or near your septic field, as the root structure could damage underground pipes.
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Tips & Warnings
If you don’t already have one, installing a concrete riser at ground level will make it easier to check and pump your system in the future.
Never install playground equipment over a septic field. In addition to the added weight, which could disrupt your underground plumbing, the bacteria count in the soil around your septic is likely to be very high, and small children should be discouraged from playing there.
Resources
- Photo Credit Delaware Valley Septic
