Building a Home? 5 Ways to Preserve Your Septic System

Becoming a homeowner is a big responsibility. In all likelihood, buying a home will be the biggest investment you ever make. You need to take steps to protect that investment. This includes certain home systems you may not know a lot about like your septic system. If not properly cared for, a septic system can fail. That can lead to losing thousands of dollars. With that in mind, below are five tips you can use to preserve your septic system.

Get Your Septic Tank Pumped

The biggest mistake homemakers make regarding their septic system is forgetting to have their septic tank pumped on a regular basis. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, depending on the size of the tank and the frequency of use, a septic pump out should be done every three to five years. Forgetting to do so can lead to a nightmare scenario.

Add Septic Treatments to Your System

It may seem kind of gross, but one of the best ways to care for your system is to flush live bacteria down your toilet. These bacteria will then work to break down things like grease, toilet paper, proteins and more in your septic tank to prevent backups. You should be able to find a treatment containing this kind of bacteria in any department store.

Protect Your Drainfield

One of the most important elements of your septic system is your drainfield. Be careful to not plant trees or other plants near or over the drain filed. Their roots can damage it. Also never park a car or anything similarly heavy over the top of the drainfield.

Watch What You Flush down the Toilet

The only thing that should ever be placed inside a toilet bowl other than excretory product is toilet tissue. Toilet tissue is designed to disintegrate in a septic tank. Other items you may flush down the toilet probably aren’t.

Have Your Tank Inspected

Regular inspections of your septic tank can prevent serious issues from developing. Try to have it inspected once a year. Have this done by a professional. If you perform your own amateur inspection, you may come into contact with gases and airborne chemicals that could be detrimental to your health.

A septic system is one of the most important systems in your house. You’ll surely discover that if your system ever backs up or breaks down. Do what you can to properly maintain your system to avoid the costly and frankly disgusting consequences of not doing so.