6 Keys to Septic Tank Success

When people think of septic tanks, they often think of them as systems used in rural areas where houses are spaced so far apart that a municipal sewer system would be too expensive to install. While that is certainly true, septic tanks are also still used in heavily populated areas, like ours. In fact, septic tanks serve 31% of homes in South Florida.

If you happen to be among that 31%, then you know your system requires a little extra care and maintenance. As plumbing specialist, we can tell you that abusing or ignoring your tank can turn into an expensive (and smelly) nightmare. We can also share a number of crucial do’s and don’ts to ensure that your septic system works the way it should. Here are a few:

Do have your septic tank pumped regularly.

The contents of the septic tank should be pumped every three to five years. If the tank is not cleaned periodically, it will lead to a buildup of solids. If the buildup gets high enough, the solids move to the drainfield, which could clog and strain the system and require replacement of the field.

Don’t use your toilets and sinks as trash cans.

There are certain things that should never go into your septic tank and drainfield. For example: coffee grounds, disposable diapers, feminine hygiene products, cigarette butts, kitchen fats, grease or oil, paints, thinners, antibiotics, dental floss, kitty litter, condoms, paper towels, varnishes, waste oils and pesticides.

Do stagger the use of water-generating appliances.

While doing all your laundry in one specific day can be most convenient, the extra water can really strain your septic system.

Don’t park or drive on your drainfield.

The weight can cause the pipes to break, and compact the soil. Compacted soils can’t absorb water from the drainfield.

Do use water-conserving devices whenever possible.

Low water usage toilets, showerheads, dishwashers, and washing machines conserve water and can reduce the amount entering the septic system by as much as 20,000 gallons a year.

Don’t dig, plant, or construct over your septic tank or drainfield.

Grass is the best cover for your tank and drainfield. Soil compaction and paving prevents oxygen from getting into the soil, which bacteria needs to break down and treat sewage.

The way you care for and maintain your septic tank greatly affects its ability to do its job. Following these recommendations, and others listed on our website, will help your system work properly for years to come. Among the many services we offer, Raider Rooter is also skilled at septic system care. Contact us to service your tank. We’ve been providing South Florida with reliable, affordable and high-quality plumbing services since 1978. Let us put our expertise to work for you.