(And How to Avoid Them)
Maintaining a septic tank may seem straightforward, but many homeowners unknowingly make costly mistakes. Here are five common errors and some practical tips for avoiding them, so you can keep your septic system healthy and functional.
Mistake #1: Overloading the System with Water
Why It’s a Problem
Too much water in your septic system can prevent waste from properly separating in the tank. When wastewater flows in faster than the system can handle, solids might escape into the drain field, leading to clogs and possible system failure.
How to Avoid It
Spread out water usage throughout the day, and avoid using multiple water-heavy appliances (e.g., washing machine, dishwasher, shower) simultaneously. Installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and water-efficient appliances can also help reduce strain on your system.
Mistake #2: Flushing Harmful Items
Why It’s a Problem
Flushing non-biodegradable items or chemicals can clog pipes, disrupt the bacterial balance in your septic tank, and prevent waste from breaking down properly. Items like ‘flushable’ wipes, feminine products, and harsh chemicals are particularly harmful.
How to Avoid It
Stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper. For everything else, use a waste bin. Avoid using bleach or antibacterial products regularly in your drains, as these can kill the necessary bacteria in your septic tank.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Regular Pumping and Inspections
Why It’s a Problem
Neglecting routine maintenance, like pumping and inspections, allows solids to accumulate in your tank, which can lead to clogs, backups, and even system failure. Regular maintenance prevents these issues and extends the life of your septic system.
How to Avoid It
Schedule a professional inspection and pumping every three to five years, depending on your household size and usage. Regular maintenance is an investment that will save you from costly repairs down the line.
Mistake #4: Using the Drain Field Improperly
Why It’s a Problem
The drain field is an essential part of your septic system, as it treats and filters wastewater. Parking heavy vehicles, planting trees, or building structures over the drain field can damage pipes and compact soil, hindering its ability to absorb water.
How to Avoid It
Keep the drain field clear of heavy objects and avoid planting trees or large shrubs nearby. Opt for shallow-rooted plants that won’t interfere with the pipes, and don’t allow vehicles or heavy machinery to pass over this area.
Mistake #5: Relying on Septic Tank Additives
Why It’s a Problem
While some products claim to boost septic system performance, additives can actually disrupt the natural bacterial process and may harm your septic system. They are often unnecessary and could cause more harm than good.
How to Avoid It
Instead of using additives, rely on regular pumping and maintenance to keep your septic system functioning well. A balanced and healthy septic system should not require chemical assistance.
Final Tips for Septic System Health
- Educate Your Household: Make sure everyone knows what can and cannot go down the drain.
- Conserve Water: Reducing water usage lessens the load on your system.
- Use Septic-Safe Products: Choose cleaning and personal care products that are labeled safe for septic systems.
By avoiding these common mistakes and practicing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your septic system remains reliable, preventing unexpected repairs and costly damage. A little care goes a long way in preserving the health of your septic system and protecting your home.
For more septic information and service, call Action Septic Tank Service at 770-922-1434 and visit our website, Action Septic Tank Service.
Action Septic Tank Service is located in Alpharetta-Milton, GA, in North Fulton County. We provide residential, commercial and industrial septic and sewer service for North Atlanta, Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas. We are open daily from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM and also provide emergency service.
Septic and Sewer Services: septic pumping, septic cleaning, maintenance, inspections, installations, line repair and replacement, drainfield repair and replacement, hydro jetting, sewer line cleaning, sewer line repair and replacement, dry wells, alternative systems, backhoe work, backflow prevention, excavating, septic treatments, grease trap cleaning and care
North Atlanta – Metro Atlanta Service Areas: Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Brookhaven, Buckhead, Buford, Canton, Crabapple, Cumming, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Gainesville, Gwinnett, Holly Springs, Johns Creek, Lanier, Marietta, Metro Atlanta, Milton, Norcross, North Atlanta, North Fulton, Peachtree Corners, Roswell, Sandy Plains, Sandy Springs, South Forsyth, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Waleska, West Cobb, Woodstock
North GA Counties: Barrow County, Cherokee County, Cobb County, Dawson County, DeKalb County, East Cobb County, Fayette County, Forsyth County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, North Fulton County, South Forsyth County, West Cobb County
