Maintaining your septic system is essential to prevent costly repairs and ensure it operates efficiently. Regular septic tank inspections and pumping in Burlington, Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor, Stanwood, and surrounding areas are crucial for a healthy system. In this blog post, we’ll explore vital steps to maintaining your septic system and highlight key preventive measures.
Plan for a Septic Pumping Every Two to Three Years
In this regard, septic tank pumping is crucial. The septic tank should be pumped on a regular basis. Generally, septic pumping should be done after three years so the septic system can return to normal. This reduces the chances of sludge formation, which is undesirable due to numerous system breakdowns and expensive repairs.
As stated by the EPA, one of the ways to enjoy the use of a septic system is through frequent pumping to ensure the optimum functioning of the system. This may result in an overflow that contaminates the water, ends up in the ground, and becomes a serious health threat.
Benefits of Regular Pumping
Regular septic tank pumping offers many advantages for homeowners who rely on on-site wastewater treatment. Here’s a closer look at some key benefits:
1. Prevents System Failures:
Over time, solids settle at the bottom of the septic tank to create a layer known as the sludge layer. Leading septic tank inspection experts in Stanwood reveal that if not pumped, it turns into a thick mass, which may block the drainfield; the drainfield is the network of pipes that distribute effluent for further treatment in the soil. This, in essence, eliminates this buildup, making the particular system run effectively without unnecessary septic system failures, which, in the long run, pose as costly hindrances.
2. Cost-Effective Maintenance:
Preventable septic tank problems are considerably cheaper than waiting for a repair. When septic tanks are not attended to for some time, there are possibilities of overflow, drain backup, and, in some cases, total system failure. These problems entail expensive repair works or replacement of the septic tank and drain field to its normal state. Regular pumping to the surface is another preventive measure, which is relatively cheap compared to the mentioned problems.
3. Health and Safety:
A properly functioning septic system helps promote your family’s health and the health of the surrounding environment. A failing septic tank means that raw sewage could pollute the ground, and the water around it can mix with the ground. Domestic water that falls under this category is risky to human health since it could contain bacteria and other pathogens that are likely to lead to waterborne diseases. This contamination is averted by routine septic tank inspection, pumping, and cleaning by a credible service provider like Gateway Septic Service, therefore protecting the health of the family and the general public.
Also Read: How Much Does Septic Tank Pumping Cost?
Only Flush Objects That Should Be Flushed
Improper disposal of items in your toilet can lead to severe septic problems. Top septic pumping, cleaning, and inspection experts in Oak Harbor reveal that flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or diapers. These can cause blockages and damage your septic system, leading to expensive repairs. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT) emphasizes that non-degradable items can cause significant issues in the septic system, affecting its functionality.
Common Items to Avoid Flushing
- Wipes and Diapers: Even if labeled “flushable,” these items can cause blockages.
- Feminine Hygiene Products: They don’t break down easily and can clog pipes.
- Chemicals and Medications: These can kill beneficial bacteria in the septic tank.
Keep Cooking Oil Out of the Garbage Disposal
Products like cooking oil and grease will crystallize and block the drain of the septic system. Top septic tank pumping, inspection, and cleaning specialists in Mount Vernon reveal that instead of pouring cooking oil into the sink, place the used oil in a container and take it to a recycling center. It’s such a simple action that averts the formation of barriers and keeps your septic tank running efficiently. The EPA advises against disposing of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) in the septic system as they can form a scum layer, leading to blockages.
Proper Disposal of Cooking Oil
- Cool and Collect: Allow the oil to cool, and then collect it in a sealable container.
- Recycle: Check for local recycling programs that accept used cooking oil.
- Trash Disposal: If no recycling options are available, dispose of the cooled oil in the trash.
Dispose of Household Chemicals Correctly
Petroleum products, laundry products, and any kind of household chemicals alter the natural functioning of bacteria required to break wastes in septic tanks. Don’t flush things like paint, pesticides, and cleaning products down the drain. However, it’s recommended that these substances be disposed of at specific centers that deal with hazardous waste. EPA output also shows that improper disposal of hazardous waste in households classified as hazardous may result in the system’s failure or pollute the environment.
Hazardous Waste Disposal Tips
- Use Designated Collection Sites: Many communities have designated sites for hazardous waste.
- Read Labels: Follow disposal instructions on product labels.
- Seek Alternatives: Use eco-friendly cleaning products to reduce chemical use.
Plant Trees Away from the Drainfield
Tree roots can invade and damage your septic drainfield, leading to costly repairs. Plant trees and shrubs far from the drainfield to avoid root intrusion. Maintaining a clear area around the drainfield ensures your septic system functions without obstructions. The University of Minnesota Extension recommends keeping trees at least 20 feet away from septic systems to prevent root damage.
Landscaping Tips for Septic Systems
- Choose the Right Plants: Opt for shallow-rooted plants over trees and shrubs near the drainfield.
- Create a Barrier: Use root barriers to prevent roots from reaching the drainfield.
- Regular Inspections: Monitor plant growth and root spread near the drainfield.
Regular Septic Inspections
Regular septic tank inspections, cleaning, and pumping are crucial for maintaining your septic system’s health. An inspection every one to three years helps identify potential issues early. This proactive approach can save you from costly repairs and system failures. According to the NAWT, septic tank inspections help ensure all components function correctly and detect early signs of trouble.
What to Expect During an Inspection?
- Tank Level Check: Inspectors check the sludge and scum levels.
- Component Inspection: Includes checking pipes, baffles, and the drainfield.
- System Performance: Assess how well the system is treating household waste.
Understanding Septic Inspection Costs
The cost of the septic inspection could also differ depending on the region in which you live or even the type of system you have. Thus, it is always lucrative to invest in frequent check-ups to avoid future expensive repair costs. To get a more accurate quote for septic tank service, feel free to reach out to us.
Also Read: Why You Need a Septic Inspection Before Buying or Selling a Home
Case Study: Successful Septic Maintenance
For instance, consider a household in Burlington that has undergone proper septic tank maintenance, pumping, cleaning, and usage practices to avoid system failures. By adhering to a strict pumping schedule and proper waste disposal, they avoided significant issues and extended the lifespan of their septic system. This incident clearly shows that it is always of the essence to undertake preventive maintenance and use the best practices as a guide.
Also Read: How Does Septic Tank Cleaning Prevent Costly Septic Repairs?
Final Takeaway
It is essential to understand that your septic system requires occasional maintenance and care in order to work efficiently. Septic tank checks, proper disposal of waste, and avoiding heavy vegetation near the drain field are crucial. Here are some tips that can help you avoid expensive repairs and maintain a properly functioning septic system: Please ensure you pump your septic tank every two to three years and dispose of your wastes adequately.
Additional Tips for Septic System Care
- Water Conservation: Flowing water consumes more septic space, and it’s wiser to use fixtures that consume less water.
- Spread Out Laundry Loads: To avoid overworking the system, one is encouraged to do fewer loads of laundry in one day.
- Regular Maintenance: Document every maintenance and inspection done on the equipment for future use.
- Educate Your Household: Make certain everyone knows what is permissible to put in the septic system and what is prohibited.
For more information on septic tank services inspections, pumping, cleaning, and maintenance in Burlington, Mount Vernon, Oak Harbor, Stanwood, and surrounding areas, feel free to contact our team at 360-826-5520. Remember that regular maintenance and mindful practices can save you time, money, and stress and ensure your septic system works efficiently for years to come.
Since 1976, Gateway Septic has been proud to serve the greater Skagit areas with reliable and affordable septic services. If you need just about any type of septic service—from septic pumping to septic installation to septic inspections needed for a property sale—we want to be your go-to company for all your septic needs. Contact us for more information today!
FAQs
Q: How often should I inspect my septic system?
A: To avoid complications, perform routine checks of your septic system every one to three years.
Q: What should not be flushed into the septic system?
A: Do not flush wipes, diapers, tampons, pads, chemicals, and any medication down the toilet.
Q: Can I plant a garden over my septic drainfield?
A: It’s best to avoid planting gardens over the drainfield. It is better to avoid planting them if you decide that only shallow-rooted plants can be planted.
Q: How do I know if my septic system is failing?
A: Signs of failure include slow drains, foul odors, and standing water around the drainfield.
By following these guidelines and keeping this timetable in mind, a homeowner can properly care for their septic system so that it stays effective and lasts for a long time. To access septics tank service, including inspection and pumping, you can get in touch with our team at Gateway Septic.
