Preventing Plumbing Problems

Avoid These Costly Mistakes With Your Home's Septic Tank

10 May 2023 by Calvin Simmmons

A well-maintained septic system is essential for efficiently operating your home's plumbing and sanitation system. However, many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that can lead to costly repairs, environmental hazards, and health risks.

Mistake: Ignoring Early Signs Of A Clogged Residential Septic Tank

Your home's plumbing system may experience serious issues if the septic tank becomes blocked. It is crucial to address early warning signs before they escalate into more severe issues. Slow-draining sinks are often among the first indications of an impending septic tank problem. If you notice water taking longer than usual to drain from sinks or bathtubs, it could be a sign that your residential septic tank needs attention.

Another sign of potential trouble with your home's septic system is water backing up or overflowing when multiple fixtures are used simultaneously, such as running the dishwasher while taking a shower. This can indicate that the wastewater being generated exceeds the capacity of your septic tank or drain field, which may require maintenance or repair work.

Mistake: Using Harsh Chemicals to Unclog a Residential Septic Tank

When faced with a clogged septic system, many homeowners quickly reach for chemical drain cleaners to resolve the issue. Nevertheless, this strategy often causes more problems than it solves. Harsh chemicals in commercial drain cleaners can kill off beneficial bacteria for breaking down waste in your septic tank. This can disrupt the balance of your system and result in further complications or even complete failure.

Using chemical drain cleaners can also introduce harmful substances into the environment, contaminating groundwater and posing risks to wildlife. Instead of resorting to chemicals when faced with a clogged septic tank, contact a professional with access to environmentally friendly methods for addressing the problem.

Mistake: Failing to Pump Your Septic Tank Regularly

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the proper operation of your home's septic system, and pumping is integral to this maintenance. Failing to pump your residential septic tank regularly can cause solid waste materials to accumulate over time. This eventually leads to clogs and back-ups within your plumbing system. Once these issues develop, they can result in costly repairs or even necessitate a complete replacement of components within your septic system.

Mistake: Planting Trees Or Shrubs Near Your Residential Septic Tank

While landscaping around your property may be aesthetically pleasing, it is essential not to make decisions that could negatively impact your home's septic system. Planting trees or shrubs too close to your residential septic tank can lead their roots to grow through pipes and cause obstructions within the system. If left unchecked, these root intrusions may cause sewage backups into drains, slow-draining fixtures, or even pipe breakage. 

For more information, contact a local company like Western Slope Septic Pumping Inc.

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