5 Reasons You’re Having Problems with Your Septic Tank
The efficiency of a septic system depends on two factors: the quality of the system as built by the septic contractor and the way you use your system. Lakeland Septic Company of Lakeland, FL, would like to share five of the most common causes of decreased septic tank efficiency and how you can avoid them.
1. Drain field damage
What exactly is a drain field and why is it important? A drain field receives liquid waste from a septic tank and then processes it before sending it to adjacent soil. A damaged drain field can lead to sewage backups throughout the septic system and your home.
Avoid drain field damage:
- Never drive vehicles over the drain field
- Don’t build permanent structures on top of the field
- Avoid placing trees with invading root systems near the field
- Have the drain field inspected regularly
2. Excess water usage
When your home is connected to a septic system, it’s important to keep an eye on your water usage. All the water leaving your home adds up and can fill a septic tank faster than you might imagine.
Follow these tips to use less water:
- Water your property during cooler times of the day so less water is needed
- Upgrade to high-efficiency toilets
- Select the appropriate load size for your washing machine each time
- Invest in high-efficiency shower heads and faucet aerators
- Don’t let faucets run unless they’re actually being used
3. Inappropriate items in toilets
You should never flush paper towels, hair, feminine products, pharmaceuticals, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, anti-bacterial cleaning solutions and other similar items and compounds.
Some of these can affect a septic tank’s efficiency by causing blockages; others can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria inside a tank that allows it to efficiently process waste.
4. FOG
In the septic world, FOG stands for Fats, Oils and Grease, which should not enter a septic system in large quantities. FOG can form a layer in your septic tank that prevents the natural bacterial breakdown of solids. It can clog drainage pipes and lead to sewage backups in your home. It can also trap solids within the tank, leading to an overall decrease in performance.
Be mindful of the fat compounds that enter your kitchen sink and garbage disposal. Grease from cooking and fats contained in food products are primary culprits. In showers and tubs, avoid using oil-based moisturizers and lotions.
5.Tank not pumped and inspected regularly
Neglecting a septic tank means failing to have a professional septic inspection or failing to have it pumped out on a regular basis.
When a tank becomes too full, serious problems can occur:
- Sewage backing up into your home
- Drains that drain slowly; toilets that flush sluggishly
- Horrible odors in your living spaces
- Leaking sewage in your yard near the tank
Have your septic tank pumped and inspected according to the schedule you and your septic provider establish.
Keep your septic system running right
As you can see, septic system maintenance is a two-part job: one part is up to your septic provider, and the other part is up to you. Working together, you’ll enjoy life in your home and rarely need to give your septic system a second thought. Regular maintenance and mindful usage are key to a hassle-free septic system.
Lakeland Septic Company is ready to help with all your septic needs, from scheduled and emergency pumping and inspections to septic repairs, part replacements, and new septic system installations. Our team is dedicated to providing reliable and efficient service to ensure your system operates smoothly.
Reach a septic professional at (863) 738-0504. You can also get in touch with our online contact form. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services.
