A septic system can last as long as 40 years before it may need to be replaced. Though there are things you can do as a homeowner to ensure your system stays in good shape, an inspection by a professional plumber periodically is a must. In the meantime, here are some common septic maintenance mistakes to avoid.

Not Having Your Septic Tank Pumped

Depending on the size of your household, your septic tank should be pumped every three to five years. Other considerations when it comes to how often to pump the tank include how much water you use and whether the tank uses electricity or some complex system to function. This would be the case in a system that must move effluent uphill. The size of the septic tank should also influence how often it’s pumped.

Flushing Inflatable Items Down the Toilet

One tragically common mistake when it comes to septic maintenance is to flush anything down the toilet that isn’t toilet paper or bodily waste. Some other products may claim they are safe to flush, but they usually aren’t. Oils, fats, and grease should also not be poured down the drain. To dispose of old oil, pour it into an old carton and put it in the garbage can. You can even take old oil to some recycling places.

Planting Trees Too Close to the Septic Tank and Drain

Though septic tank professionals may urge you to sow grass over your septic tank and its drainage field, you shouldn’t plant trees or even large shrubs near it. If the roots find the slightest opening in a drainpipe or the joint between the tank and the pipe, they’ll insert tiny feeder roots. This can cause clogging and even cracking in your septic system.

Trying to Fix Problems Yourself

Repairing a septic system is not a job for a layperson. The very gas inside your septic tank can be fatal to inhale. If you suspect or know your septic system has a problem, leave it to the pros to handle it.

Using Too Much Water

Using too much water at a time can stress your septic system. It can stir up the sludge that should lie at the bottom of the tank to the point where it’s ejected into the drainage field. It’s a good idea to stagger bath, laundry, and dishwashing times.

Call Us for Septic Tank Maintenance

Your septic system makes living in your home possible, and proper maintenance makes sure it works as it should. If your septic system needs maintenance, don’t hesitate to call our professionals at Billingsley & Brooks in Greensboro, NC.