Keeping Your Septic Tank Running Smoothly

Do you have a septic tank? Then you are like many of your neighbors in Polk County and 30% of Floridians. The importance of keeping your septic tank running smoothly can’t be understated. Nothing is worse than having a toilet that won’t flush or a bathtub that won’t drain in the middle of the night or on the weekend, which can become very costly. Let’s look at some things that can keep your septic system in good working order.

Understanding Your Septic System

In order to effectively maintain your septic tank, it’s essential first to understand what your septic system as a whole does. Basically, your septic tank is a self contained, subterranean waste treatment system. It receives all the dirty water from your home, separates the solids from the liquids, and then allows the liquid to seep into the soil in your drain field. The solids will then start to decompose because of bacteria that live in your soil.

Routine Inspection and Pumping of Your Septic Tank

One of the key factors in maintaining your septic system is routine inspection and pumping. Solid waste can accrue over time and potentially block your septic system if you don’t regularly check your septic tank. It can be a messy and expensive problem that no homeowner wants to deal with. It’s wise to have your system inspected by a professional at least annually. If they recommend that it’s time to pump out your septic tank, do it right away.

Stay Away From Any Additives In Your Septic Tank

A plethora of chemical and organic-based additives state that they can remove solid and liquid waste, even without your septic tank being pumped; some make the claim they can resurrect the bacteria in your septic tank. In most cases adding additives is bad. Why?

When additives, whether they’re chemical or biological, are introduced into this balanced ecosystem, they may disrupt these essential processes. Chemical additives can kill the bacteria that aid in decomposition, while even biological additives might disturb your septic system. There is also a risk that additives added to your septic system could cause solids to become suspended in the tank’s liquid, possibly causing clogs in your septic tank’s drain field. It’s better to keep your septic system healthy through regular inspections, careful water use, and appropriate waste disposal.

Mind What You Flush Into Your Septic Tank

This point seems like common sense, but what you flush can be deceptive. Just because something goes down the drain easily doesn’t mean it should be flushed into your septic tank. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet. Especially deceptive are things labeled as “septic safe” or “flushable” which may not break down easily and could block your septic system leading to your toilets backing up and your tub or shower not draining. This list includes items such as baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and certain types of thicker toilet paper. Also, it’s a good idea to limit the use of heavy toilet or bathroom cleaners, as they can kill the beneficial bacteria that help break down waste in your septic tank.

Protect Your Tank’s Drain Field

The drain field plays a vital role in your septic system function. It’s where the wastewater exits your septic tank and is then naturally filtered by the soil. To protect this area, avoid parking vehicles or heavy equipment over it. Also, avoid planting trees or large shrubs nearby, as their roots can damage the field. Lastly, ensure any rainwater runoff is directed away from the drain field to help avoid over-saturation.

Conserve Water

Excessive water usage can cause your septic system to fail. Every single drop of water that goes down your home’s drains winds up in your septic system, so it’s important to be aware of your water use. Simple things like fixing leaks quickly, spacing out laundry loads, and installing water-saving fixtures can make a significant difference.

A Final Thought

Your septic tank is a crucial part of your home that requires regular attention and care. You can keep your septic system functioning properly by following these simple guidelines – regular inspections and
pumping, being aware of what you flush, protecting the drain field, and conserving water. It will not only save you from any unpleasant surprises down the line but also ensure your septic system’s longevity and efficiency.

Trust Lakeland Septic To Keep Your Septic Running Smoothly, we know septic tanks like no one else in Polk County! Call us at 863-738-0504 or fill out our simple contact form. We can keep your septic tank healthy and running well all year round. Don’t wait until you have an expensive backup, get in touch today!