Septic System Do's and Don'ts

Understanding how to properly care for your septic system can extend its life and prevent costly repairs.

Protecting Your Septic System Investment

Your septic system is a significant investment in your property, typically costing between $5,000 and $25,000 to replace. With proper care and maintenance, a well-designed septic system can last 25-30 years or more. However, neglect or misuse can lead to premature failure, expensive repairs, and potential health hazards.

This guide outlines the essential do's and don'ts of septic system care to help you protect your investment and ensure your system functions properly for years to come.

Why This Matters

A failing septic system can contaminate groundwater, create unsanitary conditions around your home, lead to expensive emergency repairs, and significantly decrease your property value. Following these guidelines can help you avoid these serious problems.

Septic System Do's

DO Schedule Regular Pumping

Have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years by a licensed professional. Regular pumping removes accumulated solids that can't be broken down by the system.

DO Conserve Water

Practice water conservation to prevent overloading your system. Fix leaks promptly, install water-efficient fixtures, and spread out water-intensive activities like laundry throughout the week.

DO Keep Records

Maintain detailed records of your septic system's location, design, installations, inspections, and pumpings. These records are valuable for maintenance and if you sell your property.

DO Divert Rainwater

Ensure roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems are directed away from your septic tank and drain field to prevent overloading.

DO Use Septic-Safe Products

Choose household cleaning products labeled as septic-safe or biodegradable. These products are less likely to disrupt the bacterial action in your tank.

DO Inspect Regularly

Have your system professionally inspected every 1-3 years to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

DO Plant Grass Over Drain Field

Maintain a grass cover over your drain field to prevent erosion and help remove excess water through transpiration.

DO Know Warning Signs

Learn to recognize signs of septic problems: slow drains, gurgling pipes, sewage odors, wet spots in the yard, or unusually lush grass over the drain field.

Septic System Don'ts

DON'T Flush Harmful Items

Never flush non-biodegradable items like wipes (even "flushable" ones), feminine hygiene products, diapers, paper towels, cigarette butts, dental floss, cat litter, or medications.

DON'T Pour Grease Down Drains

Never pour cooking oil, grease, or fat down your drains. These substances can solidify and cause blockages in your system.

DON'T Use Harsh Chemicals

Avoid pouring harsh chemicals like drain cleaners, paint, solvents, pesticides, or large amounts of bleach down your drains. These can kill beneficial bacteria in your tank.

DON'T Drive Over System

Never drive or park vehicles on any part of your septic system. The weight can damage pipes, compact soil, and crush your drain field.

DON'T Plant Trees Near System

Avoid planting trees or shrubs with aggressive root systems near your septic tank or drain field. Roots can infiltrate and damage the system.

DON'T Build Over System

Never build structures, patios, decks, or swimming pools over your septic tank or drain field. This prevents access for maintenance and can damage the system.

DON'T Use Garbage Disposals Excessively

Limit garbage disposal use, as it increases the amount of solids entering your tank, requiring more frequent pumping.

DON'T Ignore Warning Signs

Never ignore signs of septic problems. Addressing issues early can prevent more extensive and expensive repairs later.

Special Considerations for Different Seasons

Winter Care

DO keep the area over your system clear of snow for better insulation (snow acts as an insulator).
DON'T compact snow over your drain field with snowmobiles or other vehicles.
DO add a layer of mulch (8-12 inches) over the system before winter to provide extra insulation.
DON'T let your system sit unused for long periods during cold weather, as this can lead to freezing.

Summer Care

DO be mindful of increased water usage from summer guests or activities.
DON'T direct sprinklers to run over your drain field, as the soil needs to process wastewater.
DO spread out water-intensive activities during hot weather to prevent overloading.
DON'T allow swimming pools or hot tubs to drain near your septic system.

Rainy Season Care

DO ensure proper drainage away from your septic system during heavy rains.
DON'T use excessive water during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding.
DO check your system after severe weather events for signs of problems.
DON'T pump your tank during or immediately after flooding, as it can cause the tank to float out of the ground.

What to Do If You Suspect a Problem

If you notice any warning signs of septic system problems, take these steps:

Reduce water usage immediately to prevent further stress on the system.
Don't attempt DIY repairs on septic systems, as this can be dangerous and may worsen the problem.
Contact Alpha Septic Pumping at (512) 000-0000 for professional assessment and service.
Keep people and pets away from any wet areas or standing water near your septic system until it's been inspected.
Document the issue with photos and notes for your records and potential insurance claims.

Professional Maintenance

The most important "do" for septic system care is to establish a regular maintenance schedule with a professional service provider. Alpha Septic Pumping offers maintenance plans that include regular inspections, pumping as needed, and expert advice tailored to your specific system and usage patterns.

Conclusion

By following these septic system do's and don'ts, you can significantly extend the life of your system, avoid costly repairs, and protect your property value. Remember that prevention is always less expensive than emergency repairs or system replacement.

If you have questions about your septic system or would like to schedule maintenance, contact Alpha Septic Pumping today. Our experienced team is ready to help you keep your septic system functioning properly for years to come.