HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM

Unlock the secrets to a healthy and thriving septic system with Miller's Septic Tank Service. Our expert team brings you "Septic Do's & Don'ts," your ultimate guide to maintaining optimal septic system performance. Discover the essential tips and tricks that keep your system running smoothly, preventing costly repairs and inconveniences. We've got you covered, from avoiding common pitfalls to implementing best practices. Trust our reliable septic pumping services for residential and commercial properties in Covington, VA, and surrounding areas. Contact us today at (540) 747-2444 for free estimates and take the first step towards a worry-free septic experience.

WHAT TO DO

Regular Pumping: Schedule regular septic tank pumping based on the recommended frequency for your tank size and household usage. This prevents solids from accumulating and clogging the system.

Water Conservation: Conserve water to avoid overwhelming the septic system. Fix leaks promptly, install low-flow fixtures, and spread water usage throughout the day.

Proper Waste Disposal: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid disposing of non-biodegradable items, grease, chemicals, or excessive household cleaners, as they can harm the system.

Be Mindful of Drain Usage: Avoid pouring cooking oils, fats, coffee grounds, and other food scraps down the drain. These can accumulate in the system, leading to clogs and drainage issues.

Septic-Safe Products: Use septic-safe cleaning products, detergents, and laundry detergents labeled as septic-friendly. Harsh chemicals can disrupt the bacterial balance in the tank.

Avoid Excessive Water Flow: Be mindful of extensive water-consuming activities such as multiple loads of laundry or back-to-back showers. Spreading out water usage helps prevent overwhelming the system.

Protect the Drain Field: Avoid parking or driving heavy vehicles over the drain field area to prevent soil compaction and damage to the system's components.

Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic septic system inspections to identify any potential issues early on and address them promptly. A professional can assess the system's condition and recommend necessary maintenance or repairs.

Maintain Landscaping: Avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep root systems near the septic system. Roots can infiltrate pipes and cause damage.

Educate Household Members: Inform all household members about proper septic system usage to ensure everyone follows the necessary maintenance practices.

WHAT NOT TO DO

Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Never flush non-biodegradable items down the toilet or drain. This includes wipes, sanitary products, cigarette butts, paper towels, and diapers. These can clog the system and lead to backups.

Pouring Grease and Oil Down the Drain: Avoid pouring cooking grease, fats, and oils down the drain. They can solidify and cause blockages in pipes and the septic tank.

Overusing Household Cleaners and Chemicals: Excessive use of harsh household cleaners, bleach, disinfectants, and chemicals can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the septic tank, affecting its efficiency.

Using Excessive Water: Avoid excessive water usage in a short period, such as running multiple loads of laundry or taking long showers. This can overload the system and hinder its proper functioning.

Ignoring Plumbing Leaks: Promptly address leaks, including dripping faucets and running toilets. Excess water can overload the septic system and lead to potential problems.

Parking or Building Over the Septic System: Avoid parking vehicles or constructing permanent structures over the septic system or drain field. This can damage the pipes, tanks, and components, causing costly repairs.

Flushing Hazardous Chemicals: Do not dispose of hazardous chemicals, paint, pesticides, or medications down the drain or toilet. These can contaminate the groundwater and harm the environment.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance: Pay attention to routine maintenance tasks such as septic pumping and inspections. Regular maintenance helps prevent issues and ensures optimal system performance.

Overloading the System with Excessive Water Usage: Be mindful of water usage during peak times. Avoid using multiple water-consuming appliances simultaneously to prevent overwhelming the septic system.

Disrupting the Drain Field: Do not drive or park vehicles, build structures, or plant deep-rooted trees or plants over the drain field. These activities can damage the drain field pipes and impede proper wastewater absorption.