A properly maintained septic system can last 20-30 years or more, protecting your investment and avoiding costly emergency repairs. At South Jersey Engineers, we design durable concrete septic systems that provide long-lasting performance at an affordable price. However, even the best-designed system requires proper care and maintenance to reach its full lifespan.
Whether you have a conventional gravity-fed system, an advanced treatment unit (ATU), or a mound system, following these maintenance guidelines will help you get the most out of your septic investment.
Septic System Dos: Best Practices for Longevity
Size Your System Correctly from the Start
Provide an accurate bedroom count during the design phase. This ensures your septic tank is properly sized for your household's wastewater volume. If you're considering adding a bedroom or bathroom in the future, size up now. The small additional upfront cost is far less expensive than redesigning and replacing your system later. Plus, it'll accommodate for heavier use from hosting parties and/or long-term guests without overloading your system.
Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper
Your septic system is designed to process only human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing anything else down your drains, including:
Conserve Water Throughout Your Home
Avoid overloading your system with too much water. Every gallon you save extends your system's life. Water conservation tips include:
Schedule Regular Septic Pumping
Have your septic tank pumped every 12-18 months by a licensed professional. Regular pumping removes accumulated solids, prevents backups, and allows technicians to catch small issues before they become expensive problems. This simple maintenance step can add years to your system's lifespan.
Maintain Your Drainfield with A Grass Cover
Keepi your drainfield covered with grass to protect it from erosion and environmental damage. The grass roots also help absorb excess moisture. Never plant trees, shrubs, or deep-rooted plants over your drainfield, as roots can damage the pipes.
Keep Detailed Maintenance Records
Document all pumping services, inspections, and repairs. These records help you track your system's health and can be valuable if you sell your home.
Septic System Don'ts: What to Avoid
Don't Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
Cooking grease, oil, and fat solidify in your septic system and can clog pipes and reduce your tank's efficiency. Instead, let grease cool and dispose of it in the trash.
Don't Use Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners
Avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners like Drano or Liquid-Plumr down your drains. These chemicals kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank that break down waste. They can also corrode pipes and contaminate groundwater. If you have a clog, use a plunger or snake, or call a professional plumber.
Don't Overload Your System with Antibacterial Products
While regular household cleaners are fine in moderation, excessive use of antibacterial soaps and cleaning products can disrupt the bacterial balance in your septic tank. Use these products sparingly.
Don't Park or Drive Over Your Drainfield
Heavy vehicles can compact the soil and crush the pipes in your drainfield. Keep cars, trucks, and heavy equipment away from your septic system area.
Don't Use a Garbage Disposal (or Use Sparingly)
Garbage disposals add significant solid waste to your septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. If you must use one, do so sparingly and schedule more frequent pumping services.
Don't Divert Rainwater to Your Drainfield
Gutters, downspouts, and sump pumps should drain away from your drainfield. Excess water can saturate the soil and prevent proper wastewater treatment.
Signs Your Septic System Needs Attention
Even with proper maintenance, issues can arise. Contact a septic professional immediately if you notice:
Have questions about maintaining your septic system? Contact South Jersey Engineers today!
Related Resources:
Whether you have a conventional gravity-fed system, an advanced treatment unit (ATU), or a mound system, following these maintenance guidelines will help you get the most out of your septic investment.
Septic System Dos: Best Practices for Longevity
Size Your System Correctly from the Start
Provide an accurate bedroom count during the design phase. This ensures your septic tank is properly sized for your household's wastewater volume. If you're considering adding a bedroom or bathroom in the future, size up now. The small additional upfront cost is far less expensive than redesigning and replacing your system later. Plus, it'll accommodate for heavier use from hosting parties and/or long-term guests without overloading your system.
Only Flush Human Waste and Toilet Paper
Your septic system is designed to process only human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing anything else down your drains, including:
- Feminine hygiene products
- Baby wipes or "flushable" wipes
- Cotton swabs or cotton balls
- Dental floss
- Cigarette butts
- Paper towels
- Cat litter
- Medications
Conserve Water Throughout Your Home
Avoid overloading your system with too much water. Every gallon you save extends your system's life. Water conservation tips include:
- Installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads
- Fixing leaky faucets and running toilets promptly
- Running full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine
- Spreading out laundry loads throughout the week rather than doing multiple loads in one day
- Taking shorter showers
- Avoiding letting water run continuously while washing dishes or brushing teeth
Schedule Regular Septic Pumping
Have your septic tank pumped every 12-18 months by a licensed professional. Regular pumping removes accumulated solids, prevents backups, and allows technicians to catch small issues before they become expensive problems. This simple maintenance step can add years to your system's lifespan.
Maintain Your Drainfield with A Grass Cover
Keepi your drainfield covered with grass to protect it from erosion and environmental damage. The grass roots also help absorb excess moisture. Never plant trees, shrubs, or deep-rooted plants over your drainfield, as roots can damage the pipes.
Keep Detailed Maintenance Records
Document all pumping services, inspections, and repairs. These records help you track your system's health and can be valuable if you sell your home.
Septic System Don'ts: What to Avoid
Don't Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
Cooking grease, oil, and fat solidify in your septic system and can clog pipes and reduce your tank's efficiency. Instead, let grease cool and dispose of it in the trash.
Don't Use Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners
Avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners like Drano or Liquid-Plumr down your drains. These chemicals kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank that break down waste. They can also corrode pipes and contaminate groundwater. If you have a clog, use a plunger or snake, or call a professional plumber.
Don't Overload Your System with Antibacterial Products
While regular household cleaners are fine in moderation, excessive use of antibacterial soaps and cleaning products can disrupt the bacterial balance in your septic tank. Use these products sparingly.
Don't Park or Drive Over Your Drainfield
Heavy vehicles can compact the soil and crush the pipes in your drainfield. Keep cars, trucks, and heavy equipment away from your septic system area.
Don't Use a Garbage Disposal (or Use Sparingly)
Garbage disposals add significant solid waste to your septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. If you must use one, do so sparingly and schedule more frequent pumping services.
Don't Divert Rainwater to Your Drainfield
Gutters, downspouts, and sump pumps should drain away from your drainfield. Excess water can saturate the soil and prevent proper wastewater treatment.
Signs Your Septic System Needs Attention
Even with proper maintenance, issues can arise. Contact a septic professional immediately if you notice:
- Slow drains throughout your home
- Gurgling sounds in your plumbing
- Sewage odors inside or outside your home
- Standing water or soggy soil near your drainfield
- Sewage backup in your home
- Unusually lush, green grass over your drainfield
Have questions about maintaining your septic system? Contact South Jersey Engineers today!
Related Resources: