Thousands of British Columbian residents rely on septic systems to keep waste flowing out and clean water flowing in. When a septic system malfunctions, it is not only inconvenient; it can be dangerous. The condition of a septic system impacts the entire household.
Septic systems are designed to carry waste and organics out, yet they do far more than that. Septic systems protect drinking water and reduce the risk of contamination in surrounding areas. These systems are complex, and septic repairs can range from costly to extremely expensive.
When a failing septic system needs to be repaired or replaced, you are likely dealing with a significant cost, however there are preventative practices that you can do to help avoid that worst case scenario. The best way to avoid damage and costly repairs is with a regular maintenance routine.
Septic System Maintenance: The Best Way to Keep Your System Flowing
Given that septic system tanks are often buried, it is easy to forget about them in our routine maintenance practices. These systems might not always be a top priority for homeowners; however, they are hard at work behind the scenes. Neglect and poor maintenance are one of the main causes of damage to both the septic tank and the drain field. Septic systems may be complex; however, your maintenance plans can be simple.
- Only Flush Organics: You have likely heard this before that the only thing that should enter your septic system is organic waste. We rely on indoor plumbing to keep homes safe and comfortable. There are plenty of products on the market that claim to be “flushable,” but do not be fooled. These items can collect inside systems and create blockages.
- Do Not Put Grease Down Drains: Cooking oils and grease are a serious risk to your septic systems. They might go down the drain as liquids, but grease does not stay in that form for long. These items will solidify inside systems, creating blockages.
- Avoid Chemical Cleaners: Septic systems thrive on natural bacteria and enzymes that break down waste. Certain household cleaners or chemicals can enter into system, killing the bacteria in your septic tank and preventing them from doing their job.
- Inspect Drainage Fields: It is important to walk the perimeter of drainage fields regularly, looking for obvious signs of trouble. If you see pooling water, mushy soil or hear squelching sounds when walking near septic tanks, it is a sign that the wastewater is not draining properly. At the same time, take stock of the grass and plant life in this area. If the grass is particularly green or lush in these areas, it could be caused by sewage overflow. A leak caused by damage or even root intrusion will allow sewage to seep out, fertilizing the area.
- Avoid Parking or Driving Over Tanks: Septic tanks might be buried, but what we do above ground can have a serious impact on their overall condition. Over time, parking or driving over septic tanks can put added pressure on your system. This can lead to physical damage to the components of the systems themselves or cause ground erosion around them.
Professional Septic Services: What to Watch Out For & When to Call in the Experts
Hiring professional septic tank services at the first sign of trouble can prevent widespread damage and the need for expensive emergency repairs. Local experts will help to create a maintenance and care plan for your system.
When a septic system fails, it can leak harmful bacteria, chemicals and sewage into the soil and water surrounding it. Preventative maintenance includes:
- Regular Pumping: Septic tanks should be pumped out every 3-5 years. This will alert homeowners to any blockages and will increase the function by ensuring tanks do not overfill.
- Filter Checks: Filters should be replaced regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly. Without proper filtration, septic systems can become clogged, or waste can stop flowing through. The frequency of filter replacements should be planned according to usage rates, and an experienced plumber can help to create a schedule that works.
- Monitor Tank Levels: Septic tanks operate by separating solid waste, wastewater and the sludge that forms somewhere in the middle. By checking tank levels regularly, you can see whether the amount of each is about where you expect it to be. Empty tanks accordingly and keep track of whether or not your system is processing materials as it should be.
No one wants to get caught with expensive septic system issues as even the smallest issue will get worse over time. Developing a proper maintenance plan and working with local professional plumbers will help to avoid the risk of damage and expensive repairs.
