How to Care for Septic Tanks

Septic System

With these easy maintenance tips, your septic tank should serve you well.

Things You'll Need

• Common sense
• These tips

Instructions

1. The following tips will help to maintain your septic system:

2. Avoid putting too many fluids in the system. Conserve water, fix leaks, install "low flow" faucets. Limit the use of your garbage disposal if you have one.

3. Don't overload your system. When morning showers and bathroom trips are at their peak, don't run the dishes or the laundry; do those items later in the day. Additionally, do your laundry in loads spread out over the week instead of all in one day.

4. Don't put unnecessary things into your system, i.e. coffee grounds, paper towels, cigarette butts, diapers, tampons, napkins, solvents, paint thinner, paint, auto products, etc.

5. Direct your down spouts and any drains away from your drain field.

6. Grass and small plants in the area is good; however, large trees and their roots are not.

7. Lastly, have your system professionally pumped every 2 to 5 years depending on need.

Tips & Warnings

• Forgetting to have your system pumped can lead to dire consequences for you.

Resources

• Septic Care Instructions
• Septic Care Maintenance