Septic tanks can be pricey. As such, you want to do everything you can to help ensure the tank that is currently in place on your property lasts as long as possible. Unfortunately, people make many mistakes that can end up harming the septic tank and shortening its lifespan. Here are three common mistakes that can harm a septic tank or septic system and how you can avoid these mistakes.
Using Products That Are Not Septic-Safe
One of the most common mistakes that is made when it comes to septic systems is using products that are not septic-safe. This includes all items that are sent down the drains and into the septic system, such as toilet paper, cleaning products, laundry soap and shampoo. Some items that are not septic-safe will not break down and dissolve in a septic system. This can lead to clogs or can cause your tank to fill up. Other products can kill the good bacteria and enzymes located in your tank. This can cause a tank to become too full, which can lead to cracks in the tank or the tank overflowing.
Not Having the Septic Tank Regularly Cleaned
The second common mistake that can lead to harm in your septic tank is failing to have the septic tank regularly cleaned. Unfortunately, the reason for this is because there is no clear cut window as to how frequently a tank needs to be cleaned or pumped out. It varies based on the size of the tank and the amount of waste your home produces. A great residential septic tank cleaning company can work with you to determine how frequently your tank needs to be cleaned. It is important to ensure the tank is cleaned and pumped regularly to prevent build up from causing stress cracks and fractures in the tank and the tank from overflowing.
Planting a Tree Too Close to the Septic Tank or Lines
The last common mistake that can harm a septic tank and the connected lines and pipes is planting a tree too close to the septic tank. As a tree ages, the root system grows. The roots can grow into your septic tank or lines, causing damage. When selecting a tree for your outdoor space, always determine how far reaching the roots can grow and then ensure you plant the tree far away enough from the septic tank and lines so the roots cannot reach those items and damage them.
Septic systems require a lot of care and maintenance. Taking the time to learn about your system, what its maintenance needs are and what mistakes can harm your system can help you extend the life of your septic tank, ensuring it lasts as long as possible.
Contact a company like Ace Sanitation Service for more information.
