How Do You Maintain a Septic Tank?

What maintenance does a septic tank need?

Regularly Pump Your Septic Tank

Every two to five years, your septic tank needs to be pumped. The frequency will depend on your tank size as well as your household size. If your septic tank is smaller or you have a larger household, you will want to have your septic tank pumped more frequently.

Regularly Inspect Your Septic Tank

Your septic tank service provider will inspect your tank for leaks as well as make sure everything is working as it should be. Getting your tank regularly inspected can help keep small problems from becoming big problems. Your inspector will also be able to tell if your tank needs to be pumped or not.

Be Cautious About What You Put Down Your Drains

What you put into your septic tank can affect its ability to function correctly.

Hazardous wastes like gasoline, paint thinners, and motor oil should NEVER make their way into your septic tank.
Anything non-biodegradable like paper towels, plastic, sanitary items, diapers, etc should not be flushed.
Grease or fat can clog up your drain field and pollute the surrounding soil. This can keep soil from absorbing and processing liquids from your system.

When you reach out to your septic tank service provider, they can give you a complete list of do’s and don’ts as well as what maintenance suits your home’s personal needs.