Depending on your household, summer may mean everyone is home more, which leads to more frequent use of the facilities. That, combined with the high temperatures of the season, puts a strain on your septic system. With the proper maintenance, however, you can prepare it for the added load and prevent a costly repair.
1. Schedule Your Routine Septic Pumping
While the bacteria in your system naturally work to break down biodegradable material — and a portion of the rest passes through the drain field — scum and sludge can remain in your system and continue to build up over time. Scheduling a routine pumping every three to five years removes this buildup, reducing the risk of a backup while keeping everything flowing optimally.
Summer is an ideal time to schedule this visit because of the extra usage of the system. Plus, septic professionals will have an easier time accessing the tank and drain field because of the dry soil.
2. Book a Yearly Inspection
An annual inspection can identify any minor issues before they become more serious and require extensive repair. During this inspection, a septic specialist will evaluate all the following:
- Waste level
- Leaks
- Wear and tear
- Drainage
As a side note, you may schedule this with a septic pumping or as a stand-alone service.
3. Watch Your Water Usage
All that additional water exiting your home throughout the summer may overwhelm your system as it can only handle so much water and waste passing through at once. Depending on the current condition of your system, you could experience unpleasant smells, backups, and slow drains from excessive water usage.
Combat this problem by regulating how much water your family uses. For instance, take short showers, wait until you have a decent-sized load of laundry before using the washer, and run the dishwasher when you have full loads only.
Besides avoiding excessive water use, try spacing consumption out throughout the day. For example, if you’re doing dishes in the afternoon, postpone running the washer until the evening. You’ll then give your septic system time to process the water and waste.
4. Watch What Goes Down the Drain
At any given time throughout the year, you don’t want non-waste-related items going down the drain, including grease, feminine hygiene products, and wet wipes. However, when your system is already vulnerable, like during the summer, it becomes even more imperative.
So, besides being careful about what you flush or pour down the drain, wipe down all your greasy pots with a paper towel before washing them. And always use a dish soap designed to cut through oil. Moreover, anytime you’re selecting cleaning products, opt for organic ones. Harsh chemicals can disrupt the beneficial bacteria in your system, leaving it less efficient at decomposing waste.
By staying on top of your septic system’s care, you’ll keep it in good working order so it can handle whatever you and your family put it through. You could also save money in the long run and prevent the inconvenient and unsanitary issue of sewage backing up into your home. Plus, you’ll avoid times when your system isn’t operational. Contact Tampa Septic today to have your septic tank pumped in Tampa, FL, and cross one to-do off your maintenance checklist.
