5 Easy Ways To Keep Your Septic Tank Clean
Taking care of your septic tank may not be the most exciting part of being a homeowner, but it’s super important. Ignoring your septic system can lead to unpleasant problems, backed-up drains, and potentially costly repairs down the road. One way to avoid these headaches is by getting septic pumping in Kennesaw on a regular schedule. Septic Blue keeps your system running great, but you can also do some easy things at home to help.
1. Be Smart About What You Flush
Your toilet isn’t a trash can. The only things that should go down it are human waste and toilet paper, nothing else. Even products labeled as “flushable,” such as wipes, can clog up your septic system. These items don’t break down like toilet paper does, and they can build up in your tank quickly.
Additionally, avoid flushing items such as paper towels, diapers, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products. These items can stick together and form a clog that blocks your pipes or fills up your tank too fast. If you’re trying to avoid frequent septic pumping in Kennesaw, start by teaching your family the dos and don’ts of flushing.
2. Use Water Wisely
Did you know that using too much water can put stress on your septic tank? That’s right, every time you run the washer, take a long shower, or leave the faucet on, all that water has to go somewhere. Too much water, too fast, doesn’t give your septic tank time to break things down properly.
To help out your system:
- Use low-flow toilets and showerheads
- Fix any leaky faucets or toilets.
- Space out your laundry loads during the week instead of doing it all in one day
By using water wisely, you give your septic system a chance to function properly. Septic Blue often encounters problems that could have been avoided by simply reducing water waste.
3. Keep Grease and Oil Out of Your Drains
Cooking grease and oils are a big no-no for septic systems. When you pour greasy substances down the sink, it may seem like they disappear, but they cool off and stick to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this can cause serious clogs and even damage your septic tank.
Instead, let the grease cool and dispose of it in the trash. You can also wipe out greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them. Taking this one step can make a big impact on how clean your septic system stays, and how often you’ll need help from companies like Septic Blue.
4. Stay Away from Harsh Chemicals
It might seem like a good idea to pour strong cleaners down your drain to kill bacteria, but your septic system needs some bacteria to break down waste. Using too many harsh chemicals, such as bleach or drain cleaners, can disrupt the natural balance in your tank.
Instead, use natural or septic-safe cleaning products. Look for labels that say “biodegradable” or “septic-safe.” These products are designed to clean your home without harming your septic system. If you’re trying to avoid overuse of septic pumping in Kennesaw, switching to gentler cleaners can help your tank last longer.
5. Get Regular Inspections and Pumping
Even if you do everything right, your septic tank still requires professional attention. Over time, solids accumulate in the tank and need to be pumped out. If you wait too long, that buildup can lead to backups or overflow into your yard, yikes!
A good rule of thumb is to have your septic tank inspected every 1 to 3 years and pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of your household. Septic Blue recommends regular inspections because catching small problems early can save you from huge repairs down the road.
Time to Take Action!
Taking care of your septic system doesn’t have to be difficult or intimidating. By making a few simple changes, such as flushing appropriate items, conserving water, and avoiding grease, you’re already doing a fantastic job. And when it’s time for professional assistance, remember that septic pumping in Kennesaw helps keep your system healthy and your home safe.
If you haven’t had your tank checked in a while, now’s the perfect time to schedule it. Reach out to a trusted team like Septic Blue to keep your septic system in great shape for years to come. With the right care, your system can work like a charm, quietly, clean, and out of sight.
