As a homeowner, you understand the importance of maintaining your septic system to avoid costly repairs and ensure its longevity. By following a few simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your septic system and prevent potential issues. In this blog post, we share five essential tips that will help you keep your septic system in optimal condition for as long as possible.
5 Key Tips for Maintaining Your Septic System
A septic system is a self-contained, underground wastewater treatment system that treats and disposes of household wastewater onsite. With regular maintenance, a well-designed and installed septic system could last between 25 and 30 years. However, this lifespan can be considerably shortened to around 15 years or less without proper care and maintenance, highlighting the importance of routine maintenance, regular inspections, and timely repairs.
5 tips to potentially boost your septic system’s lifespan include:
- Regular Pumping: Regular septic tank pumping is crucial to prevent solids from accumulating and clogging your system. The frequency of pumping depends on the size of your tank and the number of occupants in your home. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years. However, consulting a professional septic service provider like Felix Septic Services - WRE can help determine the ideal pumping frequency for your specific system.
- Conserve Water: Conserving water not only benefits the environment but also helps your septic system function efficiently. Excessive water usage can overload your system, leading to potential issues. To conserve water, consider installing low-flow fixtures, repairing leaks promptly, and spreading out water-intensive activities throughout the week.
- Proper Waste Disposal: What you flush down the drain or toilet can significantly impact your septic system's lifespan. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or cigarette butts.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chemical cleaners, especially those containing bleach or antibacterial agents, can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your septic system. These chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria responsible for breaking down waste. Instead, opt for septic-safe cleaning products or natural alternatives.
- Protect the Drainfield: The drainfield is a crucial component of your septic system, responsible for filtering and treating wastewater. To protect the drainfield, avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on it. Additionally, ensure proper landscaping practices by avoiding planting trees or shrubs with extensive root systems near the drainfield. Roots can infiltrate the pipes and cause damage.
By following these five essential tips, you can extend the lifespan of your septic system and minimize the occurrence of costly repairs. Remember, if you ever encounter septic system issues or require professional assistance, our team at Felix Septic Service is here to help. Our experienced technicians can provide expert septic system maintenance, repairs, and pumping services.
Contact us today at (603) 945-7355 to schedule an appointment to support the longevity of your New Hampshire septic system.