3 tips to help extend the life of your septic
A septic system is a big investment and there are simple steps you can take to help keep it functioning properly, which will save you money, problems, and will keep the environment clean.
Here’s what you can do to keep your system in good working order:
- Avoid overloading your system.
To help keep your septic system functioning properly, be careful not to oversaturate the system by exceeding the maximum litres per day use that your system was designed to handle. Laundry, dishwashers, showers and toilets all contribute to your daily usage. Consider staggering water usage throughout the day rather than running all these water sources at once, which can overload the system. If you are planning to host a large party or event, consider renting portable toilets.
- Protect the septic bed area, which is more delicate than you may realize.
Common causes of damage include driving or parking on your septic bed or building patios or pools over them, which can crush the pipe. Campfires should also be avoided, as they can melt the pipe. Trees and shrubs should not be planted on or around your septic system, as the roots can infiltrate the pipes and cause blockages. If you see deep-rooting vegetation such as trees beginning to grow on the septic, remove them immediately before the roots become deep enough to cause damage.
- Â Be careful what you put down the drain.
If bleach is in your arsenal of cleaning products, be careful about how you use it. Did you know that if you pour it down the drain, it can be harmful for your septic system? While bleach is known for its ability to kill germs, that’s exactly what makes it so harmful to your septic. Septic systems rely on bacteria to break down solid materials. Fats and greases should also not be disposed of down the drain, as they can also impact the digestive process that is critical for your septic to function properly.
Every septic system has a finite lifespan, but with a little extra care, you can help your system last as long as possible. These simple steps can go a long way to extending the life of your system!