All About Septic Systems – Part 6 of 6

How Do I Maintain My Septic System?

Private septic systems are common in rural central Virginia, and all over the country. They are safe, effective, have been around for decades and are relatively easily to keep in good working order, providing years or decades of hassle-free service. But like any household system, knowing how to treat the system properly extends its life. Here are some tips.

a) Have your tank pumped.  Holding tanks should be pumped about 3-5 years depending on use and abuse. Pumping the tank regularly allows for inspection of the tank and entire system and can help you spot early warning signs of looming troubles.

b) Avoid using a garbage disposal. Most good septic companies will tell you that garbage disposals are bad for septic systems. In part because people put things in there that can’t be broken done enough to avoid clogging, and because they tend to act as garbage cans for things that can’t be broken down at all. If you’re buying a property with a septic system and a garbage disposal, consider removing this after you move in.

c) Ban non-biodegradable items: For a septic system to function well, it needs to convert everything it encounters to solids that can be broken down, or fluids. Things like baby wipes, toys, condoms, wrappers, feminine hygiene products, etc., never break down and can easily clog pipes.

d) Use septic-safe toilet paper.  In general, the thinnest toilet paper you can manage is best. The thick, cushy toilet paper is more difficult to break down, and can slow the breakdown of solids that need air and bacteria to their job. Look for toilet paper that says, ‘safe for septic systems.’

e) Let your guests know!  Friends and family who visit often – or tenants – sometimes don’t understand what living with a septic system means. A few minutes of quick education with your visitors can keep the good work you are doing to maintain your system.

f) Go greaseless. Never ever put grease or oil into your septic system. This cannot be broken down and will lead to clogging and poor breakdown of existing materials.

g) Use the right cleaners.  Dishwashing soap, laundry soap, cleaning supplies, etc all go down the drain and impact the health of the bacteria required to breakdown solids. If you are using bleach-based products or other harsh chemicals, the good bacteria can be destroyed quickly, leaving the solids in place.

Septic systems are time-tested and user-friendly. With a little knowledge and some planning, you can have years of problem-free use!

Read all the posts in this series –
1. What is a Septic System?
2. Getting a Septic System Inspected
3. Common Septic Issues and Problems
4. What Happens if a Problem is Found at the Septic Inspection?
5. The Difference between a Buyer’s Septic Inspection and a Seller’s Septic Inspection
6. Maintaining a Septic System

You can also download the EPA Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems for more general information, including helpful illustrations of septic systems.