If you have a septic system instead of a sewer connection in your Northern Virginia home, you know that taking care of your septic system isn’t difficult, when you follow a few basic guidelines:
Divert Rainwater From the Septic Drainfield
A soggy drainfield won’t absorb and neutralize liquid waste. Plan landscaping, roof gutters and foundation drains so that excess water is diverted away from the septic drainfield.
Don’t Overload the Septic Tank and Drainfield
- Check faucets and toilets for leaks; make repairs if necessary.
- Use aerators on faucets and flow reducer nozzles on showers to help lower water consumption.
- Reduce water levels for small loads of laundry.
- Wait until the dishwasher is full to run it.
- Use a displacer to reduce the amount of water needed to flush the toilet.
Keep Trees Away from the Septic System
- Discourage root damage by keeping trees at least 100 feet away from the septic system.
- Trees with very aggressive roots, such as willows, should be even farther away from the system.
The Toilet Isn’t a Garbage Disposal
- Never flush cat litter, disposable diapers, sanitary products, paper towels, facial tissues, coffee grounds, or cigarette butts and filters. They’ll clog your septic tank in less time than you might imagine.
Use Garbage Disposals Wisely
- A garbage disposal can double the amount of solids added to a septic tank.
- Choose a top-line disposal that grinds food into tiny particles that are easier for a system to digest.
Minimize Heavy Duty Cleaners
- Overuse of heavy cleaners kills beneficial bacteria in the septic tank, so solids won’t break down as well.
Do Not Pour Grease Down the Drain
- Grease can clog the septic drainfield, making it impossible for soil to absorb liquids. If that happens you’ll need a new drainfield.
Avoid Hazardous Chemicals
- Varnish, paint thinners, motor oils, gasoline and other similar chemicals can ruin your system and are a hazard to groundwater. Dispose of them properly.
Protect the System from Damage
- Do not drive over the drainfield, build a structure on top of it, or cover it with concrete or asphalt.
- Do plant grass on the drainfield to minimize soil erosion.
Perform Regular Maintenance
- Solids must eventually be pumped from the tank. Many experts advise a family of four with a 1,000 gallon septic tank to have the tank pumped after 3-5 years of full time use. Other experts say you can go much longer between pumping operations.
- Never attempt to open a septic tank yourself. Gases and bacteria in it are dangerous.
If you have any questions about maintaining your septic system, call SES. Based in Warrenton, Virginia, SES offers 24-hour emergency response for septic system malfunctions. We’ve been inspecting, servicing, maintaining and repairing septic systems for residential and commercial customers in Northern Virginia since 1987.