How to Prevent Septic Cleaning

Grass over the drainage field helps absorb nutrients passing through in liquid waste.

Septic tanks dispose of household waste in areas that do not have sewage treatment facilities. The waste goes into the septic tank, where the solids settle to the bottom of the tank and the liquids pass into the drainage field. Bacteria in the septic tank continue to break down the solids, but over time it will be necessary to pump the solids out of the tank. You can put this unpleasant and expensive task off by caring for your septic system. With some simple maintenance, the septic tank may be able to go up to 20 years between cleanings.

Instructions

1. Remove any trees from the area around the drainage field. Perforated pipes run from the septic tank through the drainage field.Tree roots invading the pipes can damage your septic system and ultimately cause it to fail.

2. Plant grass over the drainage field. The grass will prevent erosion that can ultimately expose drainage pipes. Grass also absorbs nutrients through the roots, which reduces the amount of solid matter in the septic field.

3. Reduce the amount of water that enters your septic tank. Excess water dilutes the bacteria that break down solid material and can stir up the solids at the bottom of the tank, allowing them into the drainage lines. Do not route clean water, such as from downspouts, into your septic system.

4. Check the drainage around your septic field to reduce surface water. Too much surface water over the drainage field will prevent liquids in the drain pipes from percolating through the soil effectively, potentially causing liquids to back up into the septic tank.

5. Watch what you put down your drains. Grease and food waste should go into your household trash container or compost. Even if your home is equipped with a garbage disposal, putting these materials into the septic tank will mean more frequent cleaning, as they will not break down properly in the tank. They can also interfere with the septic system's ability to break down other solids.

6. Measure detergents. Most dish and laundry detergents are safe for septic systems. If you are concerned, check the products you use. They should clearly state on the label if they are septic system safe. However, even materials safe for septic systems can interfere with the breakdown of solids if they are overused. Use the minimum amount of detergent necessary to clean your laundry and dishes.

References

• North Carolina State University: Septic Systems and Their Maintenance
• University of Georgia; Septic Tank Maintenance and Care; Cecil Hammond, et al; 1991

Resources

• National Environmental Services Center: The Care and Feeding of Your Septic System