Whether you are a city dweller or you are perched somewhere on a farm, it's vital that you take good care of your septic system. Yet, while septic systems are in place all over the country, the modern upgraded ones are the ones on top of the game, provided you follow a few basic guidelines.
Ensure your Septic System is Installed Properly
Prior to installation, have health officials conduct some soil test, or percolation test, to approve that the ground will indeed sustain a septic system. The inspectors should also confirm that your property has the conditions necessary for an effective septic system.
Do not Dispose of Trash in the Toilet
When flushed down the toilet, some litter can clog your septic tank in just minutes. Consequently, do not dispose of things like facial tissues, sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, or even cat litter into the toilet.
Refrain from Overloading your Septic Tank and Drainfield
Controlling the amount of water that flows into your septic system is key. The things you might want to do in order curb it includes using a displacer to reduce the amount of water needed to flush the toilet. Even better is making use of a modern low-flow as it helps save on water. Checking toilets and faucets for leaks, as well reducing water levels for small loads of laundry would also come in handy.
Protect the System Damage
In order to minimise soil erosion, consider planting grass on the drainfield. In addition, you do not want to drive over the drainfield. To help prevent that, consider covering it with concrete or asphalt. Or, better yet, build a structure on top of it.
Keep Trees Away from the Septic Tank
Eliminate root damage by keeping trees at least 100 feet away from the septic system. Also, ensure that willows, as well as other trees with pronounced roots, are even farther away from the system.
Desist from Pouring Grease down the Drain
Grease is the reason your septic drainfield will clog, preventing the soil from absorbing liquids. That's right; too much grease down the drainfield is very reason you're going to need a new drainfield, which can, well, be costly.
Steer Clear of Hazardous Chemicals
Hazardous chemicals, including motor oil, paint thinners, vanish, gasoline, etc, can not only ruin your system but are also hazardous to groundwater. Ensure you're storing these chemicals in the right containers. Not just, but also dispose of them appropriately.