Roughly 25% of all residential properties in the U.S. have a septic system rather than a sewer line that connects to a municipal system. Septic systems fill up over time and require pumping and other maintenance that a sewer line does not. That means that there are additional maintenance considerations and the potential for major repair costs.

Practice Good Drain Habits

Good drain habits are generally the same whether you have a septic system or a sewer line. That said, with a septic system, poor choices can have a more immediate effect and result in bigger damages. Take care not to let grease and other food items into your drains. If you opt to have a garbage disposal, use it sparingly, and be mindful that it will require more frequent tank pumping. Only flush toilet paper and waste. “Flushable” wipes are not actually flushable and can have a devastating impact on your system. Space out heavy usage of water in order to avoid overtaxing the system. When emptying a hot tub or pool, drain it into an appropriate area of your landscape rather than into the septic system.

Regularly Schedule Preventive Drain and Septic Line Cleaning

Clean your drains and aerators at least every three months using a mixture of hot water and white vinegar. Replace your aerators every six months, and opt for low-flow fixtures that lower your overall water use. Approximately every two years, schedule preventive drain and septic line cleaning. High-pressure drain cleaning will remove scale, soap scum, and other accumulations. Hydro jetting helps to keep your main septic line clear of scale, scum, grease, invasive tree roots, and so forth.

Schedule Regular Septic System Inspection

If purchasing a new home, you should schedule a dedicated, comprehensive septic inspection before signing on the dotted line. Homeowners with basic septic systems can schedule an inspection every three years. Those with septic pumps and other advanced mechanical components should schedule an annual inspection. The pump alone requires an inspection and maintenance every year.

Complete Necessary Maintenance on Schedule

The typical household needs septic tank pumping every three to five years. Once the solids are more than a third of the total liquid depth, the system is more prone to serious issues. Check filters and complete maintenance for septic pumps and other mechanical components annually. About every three years, the professional inspection should extend to your drain fields as well. Over the life of your equipment, you may need drain-field-specific maintenance. That can include switching to a secondary drain field to allow the primary to recover.

Save money by being proactive with your home’s septic system. Even with regular maintenance, monitor for potential problems, and schedule diagnostics as soon as you notice them. If you have concerns or require septic maintenance services, contact Billingsley & Brooks Septic Tank in Greensboro, NC.