Septic systems are an integral part of over 20% of American homes and businesses. However, if they are not maintained regularly, they can lead to contamination of our water supplies, potentially harming homes and the environment that surrounds them. As the leading provider of septic installation in Montgomery County and other local areas, we’ve seen our fair share of sewage and contamination.
That being said, septic system contamination is entirely avoidable if the tanks and systems are cared for properly. Here’s how:
Be Considerate When Using Water
Family homes use an average of 70 gallons of water per person, per day. However, a problem as seemingly trivial as a leaky toilet can waste upwards of 200 gallons each day. All the water that a household uses ends up inside the septic system. Therefore, by conserving water, you improve the efficiency of a septic system and reduce the risk of damaging the pipes or septic tank.
Schedule Septic Tank Pumping and Essential Maintenance Checks Regularly
We recommend performing septic tank maintenance checks at least every one to three years. This is the best way of ensuring that all solids are broken down efficiently and will not end up clogging the drain field. Regular pumping can also help with preventing system failure and make your septic tank system last longer.
Take it Easy with Household Chemicals
It’s safe to use reasonable amounts of household bleaches, detergents, and drain cleaners without affecting the bacterial properties of a septic tank. However, don’t dispose of other chemicals like turpentine, or weed killers down the drains as this can upset the balance within the ecosystem of a septic tank.
Don’t Dump Grease Into the Drains
As tempting as it may be, grease can plug sewer pipes or build up in the septic tank and clog up the inlet. Keep a container specifically for waste grease and dispose of it with household waste.
How frequently your septic tank will need pumping depends on how many people live in your household. Another factor is the amount of water that you use and how many solids go into the tank. If there is a foul odor, drains are backing up or slower than usual; your septic tank probably needs pumping.
To book in with us for septic system pumping in Montgomery County or neighboring local areas call our office at 1 (844) 4-DELVAL, or click here today.
