Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank System Monday, October 07, 2019

Your septic tank is a very important part of your home, and as such, needs regular maintenance to keep it working efficiently. In order to keep your septic tank in optimal working condition, it’s recommended to regularly pump your tank, clear out debris with water jetting, and have a service professional check it regularly.

Here are some tips for maintaining your septic tank system in Plant City, Lakeland, Winter Haven, and the surrounding areas.

Regularly Pump Your Septic Tank

Over time your septic tank fills up with household waste. Every home should be on a regular septic service schedule and have a professional company come and pump your tank out. This helps prevent the accumulation of solids in the system. The frequency at which you need to pump your septic tank varies per household and is largely dependent on how much waste is compiled in the system, but most systems benefit from yearly pumping. A service professional can provide you with a schedule of how often you should have your tank pumped to keep it working efficiently.

Clear Out Your System with High-Pressure Water Jetting

Over time all septic tank systems, regardless of pumping, accumulate some solids and other debris in their drain pipes. This is normal and when dealt with properly, doesn’t lead to any issues. The presence of built-up solids clogs the pipes that connect your septic tank to the drain field. When a clog forms in your system, it can cause your tank to not operate efficiently, and if not removed could lead to major issues in the future. A professional septic maintenance company can remove clogs and any built-up gunk with high-pressure water jetting. Water jetting involves shooting high-pressure water into the pipes of your septic system to clear out any clogs and debris. While the frequency at which you need to water jet your system varies, a safe rule of thumb is every five years to completely flush out any accumulated waste and debris.

Add Bacteria to Your System to Help Break Down Waste

Bacteria is very beneficial in the process of breaking down waste. To help aid this process, septic tank owners should add live organic bacteria to their tank to help break down the presence of unnatural substances and solids, such as harsh detergents and soaps. When these common household substances enter your septic system, they kill off the naturally-occurring bacteria that allow your system to function properly. Over time this leads to less and less matter being broken down. Adding live bacteria back into your tank helps replenish any bacteria that have been killed off and aids in the decomposition of waste and other solids.

Have a Service Professional Perform Regular Maintenance

To ensure your septic system is working properly, we recommend having a professional like True Plumbers & AC inspect your system every year. Service professionals can pump your system, replace old worn-out filters, make any necessary repairs, and catch any issues you may have in your system before they become worse. Neglecting to have your septic tank and system inspected every year can lead to minor issues going unnoticed and leading to greater ones later on. Regular maintenance ensures your septic tank will continue working smoothly and efficiently.

Avoid Disposing & Flushing Non-Degradable Materials

Your septic system endures a lot of use. The more junk you pour down your garbage disposal, and the more waste you flush down your toilets, the more waste gets piled into your system. Continually disposing of thick, sludgy, or chunky substances that are hard to decompose can cause a clog in your system that eventually leads to a backup. You should always avoid pouring down cooking grease, coffee grounds, chemicals, and fats down your disposal. You should also never, under any circumstances, flush paper towels, disposable diapers, feminine hygiene products, and tissues down your toilet. These items are non-degradable and can wreak havoc on your septic system and cause a clog in your tank.

Do you need septic tank maintenance for your home?

At True Plumbers & AC, we provide exceptional plumbing services for homes and businesses in Plant City, Lakeland, and Winter Haven. We provide repair and maintenance services for clogged drains, toilets, sewers and septic tank systems, drain fields, and more. Call us today at (863) 667-6364 to take care of your septic tank system.