If you have a septic tank, it will be helpful to know the basics about the tank and how to keep it in good shape. It’s not ideal to be uninformed about the health and safety aspects of your septic tank. If you feel like you’re in the dark about septic systems, then keep reading. Below you will find some fun facts about septic tanks.
The pumping schedule of every home is different
Every septic tank needs to be pumped out about every five years or so. Pumping frequency does however, depend on certain factors, such as your usage habits, the tank size, as well as the age of the system. It is best to consult a professional drain cleaning service when it’s time to schedule an inspection and pumping.
You can’t flush everything
Flushing things like pet waste, feminine products, or dental floss might seem okay, but this can cause huge problems for your septic system. Flushing these sorts of items can affect the system’s ability to break down waste properly and could necessitate costly repairs.
Drain cleaners can cause damage
If you pour chemicals down a clogged pipe or drain, you could very quickly create more problems than you have now. Just like the products previously mentioned, chemical drain cleaners can interfere with your septic tank’s ability to break down waste.
Your system involves more than just toilets
Most homeowners just assume that their septic systems are used only as a sewer system for the toilet and the tank outside. That’s not the case—everything in your house, from your tubs and sinks to your pipes and drains is connected to the septic system. How the garbage disposal affects the system is something you should consider. Be vigilant about what goes down the drain or is flushed down the toilet because they are all connected.
Your system has an impact on your groundwater
A lot of people don’t realize that septic systems and groundwater are connected. The liquids that come from a septic tank leak out into a drain field, where decontamination occurs and the fluids are released back into the groundwater. Consistent system maintenance is vital in the prevention of your water getting contaminated, causing you to get sick.
The drain field can flood
One of the biggest problems that can cause clogs in septic systems is drainage field floods. Your property will quickly get contaminated with wastewater if you have an overflowing drain field. To avoid flooding, practice being conservative with water in your home. Schedule annual professional inspections of your drainage system.
Proper maintenance extends its lifespan
Like any piece of equipment in your home, your septic system will eventually need to be replaced. Generally you will need to replace your system after about 40 years. To maximize the lifespan of your septic tank, uphold a routine pumping and maintenance schedule. With that said, be sure to contact a professional for repairs if you notice something is wrong with your system.
And there you have it! Seven interesting facts about septic tanks. We hope you learned something new from this article.
