One of the most undesirable problems for a homeowner would have to be a septic system malfunction. When a septic system is working well, you (and your neighbors) are likely to never even notice it. But when a problem develops, it is hard not to notice. The gases that escape from a malfunctioning septic system are unpleasant at best, and overwhelming at worst. Fortunately, there are some steps that you can take to ensure that your septic system will remain in good working order. Any system can develop problems that need repair. But until that happens, you can do your part to provide good care for your septic system by understanding its limitations better.
1. Never flush solid objects down the toilet. If you have small children, you may use wet wipes, and the package may even say that they are safe to flush. They are not. “Flushable” wet wipes are flushable only in the sense that they will disappear from view when you press the toilet handle. But they do not always break down after flushing, and because they do not break down, they accumulate and clog your septic system.
2. If you have a garbage disposal, try to use it only periodically. Garbage disposals break solids down into smaller pieces, which can damage the pipes and other internal mechanisms of the septic system. Sometimes, once in the septic system, they can reform into solids and clog your system.
3. Never use powdered detergents. Liquid detergents can solidify under the right conditions, but they are far less likely than powders to congeal in your septic system. Powdered detergents are, by definitions, solids. If the powder does not dissolve thoroughly, your septic system can clog.
4. Be conscious of your water use and make the effort to conserve. Every septic system has a specific limit to the amount of wastewater it can handle. You can ensure that you are not overstressing your septic system by taking long showers, not fixing leaky toilets and dripping faucets, etc.
5. Keep debris from accumulating around the exterior locations of your septic system. Leaves and tree needles can get into the septic system from outdoor locations, so keep those areas as clear as possible.
Septic System Repair or Replacement
For other tips or to schedule service for your septic system, call the team Custom Septic at 763-218-4769. We can come out and give you an honest assessment of the problem and make a recommendation for any necessary repairs.