Schools are closing, events are being cancelled, and more people are staying home in hopes of staying healthy. More people in the home means more wastewater. Follow these tips to keep the impact on your septic system as minimal as possible.
BE SURE TO: Conserve water to reduce the amount of wastewater that must be treated and filtered by your system. Stagger the use of water-based appliances and space out loads of laundry. One or two loads every day will stress the system less than a full day of washing. Use bleach, disinfectants and drain and toilet bowl cleaners sparingly.
Get your septic tank inspected and vacuum cleaned if it has been more than 2-3 years for a family of four.
DON'T: Never flush paper towels, wipes, feminine products, or diapers into the system. Refrain from driving or parking over any part of the system, including the septic tank and the drainfield. The area over the drainfield should be left undisturbed with only a mowed grass cover. Limit the use of your garbage disposal, or discontinue use entirely. Disposals increase the solids burden to your tank by 50%, so more frequent cleaning is suggested. Don't use caustic drain openers for a clogged drain. Use boiling water or a snake to open clogs.
Don't use excessive amounts of commercial bathroom cleaners. Use a mild detergent or baking soda.
We hope these simple tips will help keep your system running smoothly. Of course, if you have any problems, we will be happy to help in any way we can.
