Septic System Tips

In the United States today, one out of every four homes is connected to a septic system, and unfortunately, these systems are not foolproof. In fact, all across the country, each and every day, people are having their lawns destroyed in order to have a septic system replaced. The good news is that you can avoid problems with your septic system by observing the following sure-fire tips. The following information can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that can come with owning a septic system.

Try your best to limit your family’s water use. This tip sounds relatively simple, but doing so will allow your septic system to rest after you’ve used it heavily. For example, if you have just completed washing a load of clothes, it’s a good idea to limit any extra use of water for at least a few hours. It’s also a good idea to repair your leaky faucets.

When possible, avoid using your garbage disposal. The utilization of a garbage disposal will dramatically increase the level of solid waste in your septic system. Overloading your system (too much water or too frequently) can cause septic backup into your house -- yuck!

Always make it a point to purchase septic-safe toilet paper. Not all toilet paper is created equal. Some brands of toilet paper are better for your septic tank than others. Be sure to purchase toilet paper that will easily biodegrade and is labeled as septic safe.

And last but certainly not least, one of the most prominent septic system maintenance tips is to purchase a laundry lint filter for your washing machine. Lint that is collected in used wash water is primarily synthetic and will not biodegrade. For this reason, laundry lint is one of the major causes of septic system blockages. You can avoid problems caused by laundry lint through the simple addition of a washing machine lint filter.

There is a wide range of products available for septic maintenance, and when combined with the above tips, these products and services can help to ensure that your septic system continues to function properly. It’s also wise to have your septic levels measured annually; this can be done in conjunction with a recommended annual septic system exam.

In short, common sense and forethought are the two best weapons against septic system problems. Avoid obvious septic threats (such as flushing paper towels and sanitary items) and follow sound maintenance advice, and you’ll enjoy your septic system for years to come.