5 Tips to Keep Your Septic System Healthy

Septic system repair can be expensive and invasive. To avoid this costly hassle, keep your septic system healthy with proactive maintenance. Just a few simple precautions can keep your septic system healthy and running well for years.

1. Keep up with inspections. You should have your septic tank inspected every year to get an idea of its current status. When the solid layers of scum and sludge reach certain levels, the tank should be pumped. The average household should have their septic tank pumped every 3-5 years to avoid issues. There’s no substitute for this preventive maintenance.
2. Avoid harsh drain cleaners. There are many antiseptic cleaning products on the market, and it’s especially tempting to use them in the bathroom, but cleaners that include bleach or other antibacterial agents can kill off the bacteria that you need in your septic system. To keep the good bacteria alive, avoid the use of bleach or antibacterial cleaners in your toilets and drains. Brian Wear Plumbing’s ENDURE Drain Line Maintainer is a non-toxic, non-acid cleaner that will keep your drains clear and your septic system healthy.
3. Be careful about what you put down toilets and garbage disposals. Sanitary products, paper towels, hair, grease, coffee grounds, hard foods, or large particles can cause clogs in pipes or other problems further into the septic system. Harsh or toxic chemicals should never be poured down a drain or toilet. Instead, dispose of paint thinner, motor oil, gasoline, or other chemicals according to state law or the instructions on the packaging. Don’t flush anything but waste and toilet paper.
4. Keep your septic system balanced. To keep your septic system healthy and balanced, you can use a commercial tank treatment such as Rid-X to add more bacteria to your tank, so the solid waste is disposed of more quickly. If you prefer a more natural alternative, adding yeast to your tank can provide a similar function. Simply flush about 1/4 cup of dry baking yeast down a toilet on the lowest floor of your home every 3-4 months.
5. Know where your septic tank is located in your yard. Keep the area covered with grass instead of concrete or any other structures and try to keep tree roots away from the area to avoid ruptured pipes. This will keep inspections and maintenance fast and easy.

Brian Wear Plumbing is here to help with all your plumbing needs. If you need your septic system inspected or you have any other issues, please contact us today!