Septic problems are never any fun to deal with, and they can put your system out of commission for days at a time if you aren’t careful. If you’d like to avoid septic problems to begin with, here are some easy things you can do to keep your septic tank in good shape:
- Conserve water—Excessive water use overloads your septic tank and keeps solid waste from being able to settle at the bottom of the tank. For this reason, be careful about how much water you use in your home every day and consider having your septic tank pumped before you have company stay with you.
- Only flush human waste and toilet paper—Not everything should be flushed down into your septic system. To prevent septic problems, never flush disposable diapers and wipes, paper towels, coffee grounds, kitty litter, or pretty much anything else besides toilet paper down the toilet.
- Avoid chemicals—Letting chemicals go down into your septic tank can keep your drain field from being able to absorb wastewater naturally. You should never let pesticides, solvents, paints, or any other type of toxic chemical get down into your septic tank.
- Make pumping a priority—Most importantly, make sure you’re getting your septic tank pumped on a regular basis. By doing this, you clear solid waste out of your septic tank and ensure that there is plenty of room for new wastewater to come through this part of your system.