Septic systems can be very costly to restore once they become damaged. It is therefore in your interest as a homeowner to take any steps necessary to avoid the high cost and inconveniences associated with fixing a failing septic system. This article discusses some of the simple tips that you can implement in order to preserve the health of your septic tank and its drainfield.

Conserve Water

Keeping your water use to a minimum can have a beneficial effect on the longevity of your septic system. This is because large amounts of water can cause solids to be pushed into the drainfield due to the excess load that is dumped into the septic tank. Such solids can cause the drainfield to fail prematurely. It is therefore helpful to implement steps to conserve water. For example, fix any leak that causes water to drip into drains endlessly.

Be Careful What You Dispose Of

Your septic system can also last long if you take precautions to avoid dumping harmful substances into it. For example, the excessive use of cleaning chemicals can have an adverse effect on the health of the microorganisms that breakdown wastes in your septic system. You should, therefore, avoid disposing of bleach and other chemicals in the septic tank. You should also install a garbage disposal after confirming that the size of your septic tank can handle that extra load of solids that will be entering it.

Be Selective Regarding What You Plant

You should be mindful about what you plant close to your septic tank and the drainfield. Grass is the best for the drainfield and its environs. This is because the grass will utilise any excess water that enters that drainfield. Trees and shrubs should be avoided because their roots can damage the septic tank or the drains that are carrying wastewater to the septic system. Avoid creating impermeable surfaces, such as concrete pavers, over the drainfield.

Frequent Maintenance

The best thing that you can do for your septic tank and its associated components is to conduct regular inspections (yearly inspections, for example). Such inspections can detect and address any developing issues before they reach a level of compromising the health of that system. Frequent inspections will also alert you about the need to pump that tank.

It is a good practice to engage a septic expert to evaluate your septic system. That professional will let you know what specific steps you should take to ensure that the system remains in a good condition for a long time.