Septic Systems: Keep Up Your Maintenance!

A septic tank is basically a place where the waste from your home is separated into different categories where it will either drain, break apart, or remain. Though septic tanks may seem simple, there is actually a lot that goes into making sure they run smoothly. Proper septic tank maintenance should be a high priority for anyone who has one, since problems with your septic tank may cause flooding in your yard or home. Many a home has been plagued with these problems, though they are, for the most part, quite avoidable. 

Maintenance of a septic tank requires a constant effort and supervision from a homeowner. This is due to the fact that you need your septic system daily. Proper maintenance is possible through a few simple steps.  

Baseline Professional Visit

If you have recently purchased a home with a septic system, it is a good idea to have it inspected before you move in. Having a professional perform the check ensures that you have an accurate baseline of where your water level and sludge level at the bottom of the system currently are. 

Measure Yearly

With a small amount of training, it is possible to check the levels of your septic tank by yourself. This should be done at least yearly to ensure that your system is not being overwhelmed with the amount your family is using water. If your water usage is too high your system may be overrun which will likely result in the flooding of your lawn or even your home. By checking this level yearly you are much less likely to suffer catastrophic challenges with your septic system. 

Pump As Needed

There are different levels of wastewater in the septic system. The top is usually greased or oils that may be in the water. The middle is water and semi-solids, and the bottom is more solid material that is decomposing. Should something enter your septic system that does not decompose, it will simply stay there until it is pumped out. For this reason, it is crucial to be aware of the levels in your septic system. Pumping is usually required every 3-5 years, though it may be needed more often depending on your family's habits. 

In conclusion, while septic systems can occasionally be a challenge, they are not one to shy away from. You as a homeowner can a professional visit to use as a baseline, and then stay on top of your septic system's needs by yearly checks. For more information, check out websites such as http://sullivanseptic.net.