Septic system maintenance services can improve operations and lower repair costs. However, if you neglect this system, you could face waste overflowing, severe backups, or foul odors in and around your home. These circumstances can lead to contaminated groundwater, damage to drain fields, and potential legal liabilities. Septic specialists can help you maintain your septic system. Continue reading to learn how septic system maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs.
Professional Septic Maintenance Steps
Septic system maintenance starts with an inspection. It’s important that you set up an annual inspection. Professional plumbers will look for cracks in the screens, damaged filters, and built-up sludge. They will also inspect for root intrusion and wastewater pooling. If there is oddly lush grass, it could be a sign of a septic leak.
Next, they’ll determine if septic pumping is needed. Plumbers will measure the top layer of sludge. If they discover that solid waste fills more than one-third of the tank, they’ll pump it. Typically, you’d need the tank pumped every three years. However, you can schedule the service once every four years if the tank holds at least 1,500 gallons of wastewater.
They will then check the filter. If your septic system requires filters, they should be cleaned or replaced every 6 months. Plumbers will evaluate the filters. If they aren’t working efficiently, your plumbing team may suggest a different product.
Finally, plumbers determine if the drain field is clogged. They will find the source of the clog and use chemical treatments to correct it. Typically, clogs are caused by bacteria and waste buildup. They’ll check the lid, risers, and pipes for damage.
What You Can Do to Help
There are several habits you can implement in your daily life to avoid costly plumbing repairs. First, you can proactively protect the drain field. Don’t park any vehicles or equipment near the drain field. Avoid planting trees or plants with deep roots near it to avoid root intrusion.
Check the direction in which runoff drains. Make sure your sump pump and gutters drain away from the leach field. Changing the direction can prevent waterlogged soil around the leach field.
Be mindful of when you use major appliances to space out water usage. For instance, you can alternate days and times for doing laundry and running the dishwasher.
Your septic system is a vital part of your plumbing system. When problems arise, a licensed plumber can fix them quickly. However, if you schedule septic system maintenance, you could avoid these problems. You’ll protect your home and septic system by learning how annual maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs. If you live in Muncie, IN or a surrounding area and need septic repair services, make your first call to Happy & Clean Septic Rescue.
