Septic Tank Maintenance: Dos And Don’ts

If you have a septic system, it’s important to understand how to take care of it properly. A poorly maintained septic system can lead to slow drains, foul odors, sewage backups, and other issues. These issues aren’t just gross – they can also get expensive quickly, and lead to sanitation concerns.

The Puget Sound Septic team is here with helpful tips for keeping your septic system in good shape. However, it’s important to remember that DIY upkeep can only go so far; professional help is the only way to make sure that your septic system is working properly. 

If you’re experiencing a septic emergency like sewage backup, call us immediately; we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help.

Please feel free to download our handy flyer of Septic Tank Do’s and Don’ts as a quick reference guide

Septic Tank Care: Do…

We’ll start with what you can do to care for your septic system. Your septic has a surprisingly fragile ecosystem, and you need to be careful with what goes down your pipes. Keep the following in mind:

Dispose of Food Properly

Food waste shouldn’t go in the toilet. Even though it’s biodegradable, food won’t break down fast enough in a septic tank and can cause a lot of problems. It can also clog your pipes and drain field. Adding solids to your septic tank will require more frequent pumping, so keep those food scraps in the trash or compost where they belong.

Minimize Runoff

Divert water away from your septic tank and drain field. Excess water in the soil reduces the effectiveness of your drain field, so do what you can to keep the area dry. This also means you should be mindful while watering your lawn.

Be Careful With Cleansers

Your septic system needs bacteria to break down waste. Cleansers like chlorine, disinfectants, pesticides, and even antibacterial soap can harm your septic’s bacteria population if used too much. Use septic-friendly cleansers for your plumbing fixtures – and if you need to dispose of them, drop them off at a hazardous waste disposal facility rather than dumping them down the toilet.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Finally and most importantly, schedule regular professional maintenance. Nobody knows better than the pros how to keep your septic system in good working order. You should have a septic inspection at least once every two to five years, but there are various factors that could change this time frame.

Septic Tank Care: Don’t…

Now for the things you shouldn’t do. Septic systems are surprisingly delicate, and can easily be damaged if you aren’t careful. Here are a few things to avoid:

Flushing Nondegradable Items

Aside from toilet paper (and waste), nothing else should be flushed down the toilet. Below are just a few things you should throw in the trash instead of flushing:

• Wipes (even wipes labeled as flushable)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Floss
• Diapers
• Napkins

Ignoring Warning Signs

If your pipes are draining slowly, making a lot of noise, backing up, or smelling bad, don’t wait; all of these are signs of septic problems. These problems will not resolve on their own, so don’t hesitate to call Puget Sound Septic.

If your septic system has an alarm, don’t ignore it going off! It’s a sure sign that your septic needs some attention.

Damaging Your Drain Field

Trees and shrubs planted in your drain field can grow roots that damage your tank. Driving over your septic tank (and the surrounding drain field) can compact the soil over time, making it harder for water to drain away. Plant trees and shrubs at least ten feet away from your septic tank, and keep the same distance while driving. Not sure where your septic tank is located? We can help with septic locating services.

Puget Sound Septic Is Here For All Your Septic Needs

Puget Sound Septic is the best team to call when your septic system is acting up, or when it just needs some routine maintenance. We’re experts in our field and we’re ready to help! We keep on top of the latest and greatest in septic care technology, so you can count on us to bring efficient and thorough service to you.

Give us a call for all of your King County WA septic-related needs!