Top Septic Tank Maintenance Tasks You Must Do Regularly

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Your septic system is a key part of your home, and proper septic tank maintenance is essential to keeping it running smoothly. Here are some of the benefits of regular septic tank maintenance:

• It can prolong the life of your septic system.
• It can help prevent expensive repairs.
• It can keep your home's value high.
• It can protect the environment.
• It can save you money in the long run.

Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank

Maintaining your septic tank regularly is essential to prevent problems and keep it functioning properly. Here are some tips for septic tank maintenance:

1. Pump your septic tank every 3-5 years. This will remove the accumulated sludge and scum from the bottom of the tank.

2. Have your septic tank inspected every 3-5 years to check for any damage or leaks.

3. Repair any leaks or damage as soon as possible.

4. Do not flush anything besides human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. This can clog or damage your septic system.

5. Use water efficiently to avoid overloading your septic system. This means avoiding too much laundry, dishes, or showers at one time.

Common Signs of a Failing Septic Tank

One of the most common signs that your septic tank is failing is when sewage starts to back up into your home through the drains. Another sign is when you notice strong odors coming from your drains or the area around your septic tank. If you see water pooling around your septic tank or in your yard, this could be a sign that your tank is leaking. If you have any of these signs, it's important to call a professional to come and take a look at your septic system.

When to Call in a Professional?

While some septic tank maintenance tasks are easy to do yourself, sometimes it's best to call in a professional. Here are a few examples: 

If you notice that your drains are backing up or water is pooling around your septic tank, this could be a sign that your tank needs to be pumped. Pumping should be done every 3-5 years, depending on the size of your tank and the number of people in your household. 

If you have a garbage disposal, you'll need to have your septic tank cleaned more often than if you don't. This is because the food scraps can speed up the process of sludge buildup. 

If you've never had your septic tank inspected before, it's a good idea to call in a professional to do an initial inspection. They will be able to assess the condition of your tank and offer advice on how to maintain it properly.

Conclusion

With septic tank maintenance, being prepared and vigilant is key. The tasks outlined above are only a few of the most crucial ones you must do regularly to keep your septic tank working properly. Taking the time to care for them will save you money, time, and stress down the road. Ultimately if done correctly, your home's septic system should remain in excellent condition all year round with little effort on your part.