Looking for more information about septic tank maintenance in Modesto, CA? Here are a few dos and don’ts you should be aware of as you strive to keep your tank in prime condition.
DO:
- Regularly maintain your system: Routine maintenance goes a long way toward extending the life of your septic system. Work with a certified septic system inspector to perform regular maintenance and monitoring. The frequency of these appointments depends on the type and usage of the system.
- Pump your tank at the recommended frequency: How often you pump your tank depends on how much water you use at your home or building. The general rule of thumb is you should pump every three to five years, but a qualified septic maintenance provider can give you more information about your specific needs.
- Be smart about how you use water: Repair all leaks to your plumbing as soon as possible, and install low-flow fixtures on faucets and showerheads throughout your building. Try your best to spread out laundry loads during the week, and avoid running your washing machines and dishwashers at the same time.
- Keep water away from the drain field: Set up drainage systems on your property that send water from the land and your roof away from the drain field.
- Have easy access to septic tank lids: Put in risers to make it easier for your septic tank service to complete pumping and monitoring appointments. Having this equipment installed makes the pumping and monitoring less disruptive and prevents unwanted messes.
DON’T:
- Use a garbage disposal: Garbage disposals send greases and solids into your septic system. This debris can build up quickly and cause problems with your drainage.
- Flush anything besides toilet paper: You should NEVER flush anything except toilet paper into your septic system. This includes diapers, coffee grounds, tampons, sanitary napkins, condoms, medications, grease or other paper products. Even if the product is labeled “flushable,” that might not be true with a septic system.
- Park or drive vehicles on your drain field or tank: Running equipment over the top of your septic tank or drain field could pack down the soil in the area, which could create problems with drainage.
- Pour chemicals down the drain: Household chemicals should never be poured into a drain if you’re on a septic system, as these chemicals could destroy bacteria in the system that play a crucial role in breaking down solids. This includes various types of cleaning products, paint, antifreeze or any other chemical in your home.
- Drain hot tubs into the septic system: Large volumes of water could flood your drain field, and the chlorine in a hot tub could kill the bacteria that break down solids in the septic system.
These are just a few examples of common dos and don’ts associated with septic tank maintenance in Modesto, CA. For more information about how to keep your system running smoothly for years to come, contact our team today.