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4 Tips To Keeping Your Septic System In Great Condition

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Just because your septic system is out of sight doesn't mean it should be out of mind. It's crucial to maintain your septic system for a number of reasons, not least because calling out professionals to service your tank can be extremely expensive. A failing septic tank can also pose very real health hazards not just for you and your home, but your community as well. So if you're curious about the various ways in which you keep your septic system in great shape for decades to come, keep reading for suggestions below.

Garbage Disposals

Though garbage disposals are a common sight in many household kitchens, they cause nothing but problems when it comes to septic tanks. Sure, they grind up food waste into more manageable pieces, but these pieces will still float around in the septic tank and eventually create a large amount of sludge. Some food waste is broken down by bacteria fairly quickly, but the increase in the ratio of solid to liquid waste that a garbage disposal creates isn't worth the risk. 

Laundry 

Many people like the convenience of doing all their laundry (and perhaps the laundry for several other people in their house) all in one day. But this practice is actually more harmful than helpful to your septic tank. That's because most tanks can't process the huge amount of waste generated by washers, and so essentially are overloaded within in a very short period of time. Though this may not have any immediate consequences, it does tend to force solid waste into the drainfield, which can cause serious problems in the long run.

Pumping

Limiting daily laundry work and foregoing use of a garbage disposal are easy enough, but you'll have to directly address septic waste every so often as well. This means contacting a licensed professional who is trained in septic tank pumping, and having them come out to your house to empty your tank. It is recommended that pumping is performed every three to five years, though some larger tanks may require less frequent maintenance.

Records

Finally, keep detailed records of all the inspections, maintenance, repairs, and pumping that either you or a septic professional have performed during the time you have lived on the property. This can prove to be extremely helpful when diagnosing problems in the future, or simply when requesting a permit that may necessitate the submission of septic records. For more information, visit websites like http://www.bergtanksinc.com/home.


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