Summer brings unique challenges to your septic system. If you want it to run smoothly during this season, you need to focus on managing high water usage. You also need to protect your drain field from environmental factors and physical stress.

Managing Water Usage

Stagger bigger tasks throughout the week. Instead of doing many loads of laundry in one afternoon, do a few loads here and there. The same holds for washing dishes. Spreading these types of jobs over many days will help you avoid overwhelming your septic tank.

Limit the Impact From Guests

Many homeowners have more friends and family visiting during the summer season. Politely ask guests to take shorter showers and be careful what they flush or rinse down the drain. Wipes, grease, and feminine products aren’t good for your septic system.

Promptly Fix Leaks

If your toilet continually runs or if you have a dripping faucet, there can be hundreds of extra gallons entering your water system daily. This can quickly overwhelm your septic tank and drainfield. Address these problems quickly by contacting your local plumber.

Monitor Outdoor Water

Keep an eye on where you direct your sprinklers, where your pool drains, and where your roof’s runoff goes. You want to make sure all of this excess water is directed away from your drainfield. This prevents the soil from becoming oversaturated.

Protect Your Drainfield

It’s important to protect your drainfield by keeping it clear. Never park cars, set up heavy equipment, or drive heavy machinery over it. These activities can compact the soil and crush the pipes.

Plant Carefully

Only plant shallow-rooted plants near your septic system. Grass and many native flowers are fine. Avoid planting water-hungry trees, such as willows, in this area as well. Their roots can find their way into the pipes as they search for water. This leads to clogs.

Manage Dry Soil

During the summer season, the soil may crack and become less permeable. This can affect your drainfield’s functionality. Maintain consistent moisture in this area by lightly watering the grass over it. Be careful not to flood the drainfield.

Proactive Maintenace

If it has been 3 to 5 years since you’ve had your septic tank pumped, schedule this service before summer begins. You can also have a professional check for potential issues. This includes dried-out seals, stress cracks in the tank, and blocked vent pipes.

Don’t use harsh cleaners or septic additives. The heat that comes with summer already accelerates bacterial activity. Adding these chemicals will disrupt the delicate balance in your septic system.

By following these tips, your septic system will run smoothly all summer long.

Get expert help with septic inspection in Greensboro, NC, call Billingsley & Brooks Septic Tank Co today.