Maintaining And Repairing Septic Systems

If your new home is located in a rural community, chances are good that you have a septic tank in your yard. Septic tanks are used in areas where municipal sewer systems are not available. If you've never been responsible for the care and upkeep of a septic system, the task may seem daunting. However, caring for a septic system isn't as difficult as you might think. Take a look at three simple steps for keeping your septic system in good working order.

Avoid Overloading the System

Septic systems are designed to process the liquid and solid waste that flows from your home. However, if that waste flows through too quickly, or too much is being processed, your septic system will have some problems, such as stubborn clogs, and sewage backups into your home. You can prevent those problems by avoiding the system overloads. First, limit your laundry to one or two loads a day. Second, fix plumbing leaks as soon as you find them. Finally, install low-flow toilets and shower heads in your home. These steps will help reduce the amount of liquid waste that flows through to your septic.

Control the Root Population

If you've mature trees in your yard, they could be posing a threat to your septic system. This is particularly true if your trees are water-deprived. When trees don't get enough water, they send out their tap roots in search of a new source. Many times, the tap roots will choose your septic pipes as that source. Unfortunately, once inside, the roots will continue to grow until they destroy your septic pipes. Control the root population, and prevent serious problems, by having your drains cleaned each time you have your septic serviced. It's also a good idea to flush a cup of rock salt down your toilets once a month. The rock salt will kill the small roots before they have a chance to do any damage.

Watch for Warning Signs

Now that you're responsible for a septic system, you need to know the warning signs. Knowing these signs in advance will help you prevent septic disasters. To protect your septic system, you'll need to watch, listen, and smell.

• Watch for sewage in your tubs and over your septic field
• Listen for gurgling from your toilets when you flush
• Smell for foul odors from your drains

Don't take chances with your septic system. The information provided here will help you avoid septic problems. Be sure to talk to your septic company for other helpful tips. If you're interested in more information, consider checking out websites like http://www.sosseptic.net/.