Any septic tank owner should be equipped with the essential knowledge for proper unit maintenance. This will ensure the longevity of their use and save them unwarranted costs in repair.

There are certain mistakes that septic tank owners commonly make without realizing the long-term repercussions. Being forewarned about the following mistakes could prove to be the difference between an efficient septic system and one constantly plagued with a myriad of issues.

Flushing the Wrong Items

Things like baby wipes and diapers might seem harmless, but they should never go down your drain. In fact, anything other than waste and toilet paper should never be flushed down your system.

These items are hard to break down and can easily clog your pipes leading to a cascade of drainage problems that eventually get to your septic tank. Moreover, the material in your wastewater can upset the delicate balance of bacteria inside the tank leading to the production of harmful gases.

Not Paying Attention to the Drain Field

The drain field is an integral component of your entire plumbing system. It filters wastewater before the effluent seeps into the soil. Any problems with the drain field will interfere with the filtration process leading to a back-flow of wastewater right into your home.

Avoid overworking your drain field and conserve water to limit the amount of wastewater through to the drain field. You should also avoid parking your car on the drain field or putting up any structures on it. Your drain field should also be inspected frequently in line with your septic expert's recommendation.

Forgetting to Pump your Tank

You should pump your septic tank at least every 3-5 years. Failure to do so will decrease its lifespan. Most people think they need to wait until they notice a problem but by then it's usually too late.

Make sure you only seek the services of well-known septic tank pumping services professionals. You should keep an eye on any abnormal signs such as bad odors emanating from the tank or the drain field.  Unusually lush vegetation around your drainage is also an indicator of possible leakage. Sinks that drain slowly can also be a sign of trouble with your septic tank.

Washing Excess Laundry Loads

This is particularly a problem for large families. Doing too many loads of laundry at once is not only detrimental to the overall condition of your drains but also puts undue strain on your septic tank.

You should spread the laundry out to allow your drainage system time to flush down the wastewater. Also, watch out for the chemicals used for laundry as they can interfere with bacteria in the system. For extra caution, natural cleaners are a much safer option. To learn more information about septic tanks, reach out to a company such as Chamberlain Septic and Sewer.