Don’t Flush Your Money Down The Toilet: Save Money on Septic System Maintenance

Taking care of your septic system is one of the most crucial steps to improve your house’s wastewater treatment. Chances are, neglecting septic system maintenance, like periodic septic tank pumping, can lead to expensive repairs and potential environmental hazards. To make sure that doesn’t happen, below are several helpful strategies to help keep your septic system in top shape while keeping costs low, so you don’t flush money down the toilet!

Be Careful What You Flush Down

One of the most common causes of septic system issues is improper flushing habits. You can address this and save money on maintenance by teaching your family members about what should never be flushed down the toilet or poured down the drains.

Non-biodegradable waste such as paper towels, diapers, feminine hygiene products, and plastics should not be flushed down the toilet. The same goes for drains, where grease, oil, and harsh chemicals should be kept out of the drains, as they can disrupt the septic tank’s delicate balance.

Save More in the Bank, Pump Your Tank

Getting your septic tank pumped regularly is one of the most essential ways to prevent clogs and ensure it functions properly. The frequency of septic tank pumping depends on the tank’s size, the number of people living in the household, and your water usage.

As a general guideline, a typical household should have their septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years. Regular pumping prevents solids from building up and spilling into the drain field, saving you from big-budget repairs in the long run.

Be on the Lookout for Early Septic Malfunctions

Akin to many other aspects of household maintenance, being attentive is key to saving money on septic system maintenance. Learn more about the signs of septic malfunctions to catch potential issues early on. Some of the most common issues include slow drains, gurgling sounds in the plumbing, foul odors around the septic tank, and sewage backups in your home.

Addressing these problems promptly can prevent more significant issues and minimize repair costs down the line.

Save Precious Water When You Can

Reducing your water usage not only benefits the environment but also puts less strain on your septic system. Install low-flow fixtures and encourage your household to practice water-saving habits such as fixing leaks promptly and only running full loads of laundry and dishes. Saving water will not only keep your septic system optimized but will also lessen the need for septic tank pumping, which will save you money in the long run.

Lye Might Actually Make Things Awry 

While it might be tempting to use chemical cleaners, which mostly use lye or caustic soda, to unclog drains, these products can harm the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. You might think that using strong and corrosive chemicals is the way to go. Still, the bacteria in your tank actually play an important role in breaking down waste and maintaining the tank’s healthy balance.

Instead of using chemical cleaners, opt for natural alternatives or consider using a drain snake or plunger to clear minor clogs. Preserving the beneficial bacteria will help your septic system operate optimally and save you money on septic tank maintenance.

Know the Lay of the Land (Literally)

The location and landscaping around your septic system can influence its maintenance requirements. Avoid planting trees or shrubs with extensive root systems near the septic tank and drain field, as the roots can infiltrate the system and cause damage. Similarly, you should avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects over the septic system components. Proper landscaping will not only prevent potential damage but also reduce septic tank maintenance costs.

Consult Your Local Septic Tank Service Provider

Most importantly, schedule regular inspections with a trusted professional septic system service provider like Economy Septic Tank Service. We can help you assess your septic tank’s condition, identify potential issues, and provide timely maintenance.

Scheduling routine inspections can help you detect problems early on and not only help you extend the life of your septic system but also save you from expensive repairs down the road.

Septic system maintenance does not have to be a pricey endeavor. With proper care and routine maintenance, your septic system will not only serve you well for many years but also help you look after your investment and the environment!

Remember, if you’re unsure about any aspect of septic system maintenance, it’s always best to consult with a credible professional septic service provider for expert guidance tailored to your specific system.

Septic System Maintenance is Easy with Economy Septic!

Here at Economy Septic Tank Service, we pride ourselves on delivering excellent and high-quality results at affordable prices. Call us today to discuss prevention work and routine maintenance of your septic system!