Summer is a time for vacations, backyard barbecues and relaxing by the pool – not the time you want to be worrying about your septic tank system Muskegon, Grand Haven, and Whitehall. If you frequently entertain guests and have more people using your toilets, shower, dishwasher, washing machine, etc. then you may be unknowingly putting a strain on your septic tank system. This could lead to septic tank overflow, a saturated disposal area, unpleasant odors and/or water pollution. Summer should be a carefree time when you slow down the pace a bit and enjoy sights and smells of the season. Poor septic tank maintenance can create the wrong sights and the wrong smells!.
What are some signs that your septic tank may require maintenance?
- contaminated wells
- untreated sewage discharge
- soft smell spots
- pooling water
- slow drains
- an overly healthy lawn
- heavy rainfall
Wait, rainfall? Yes! Heavy rainfalls can cause the water table to rise. When the water table rises too high, it can saturate the septic tanks Muskegon, Grand Haven and Whitehall leach field which can cause contaminants to back up into the septic tank. So, when there has been heavy rain, take steps to put less stress on the septic system. For example, flush the toilet less, take shorter showers, and do less laundry. Also, divert water flow away from the area of the septic tank. Keep the soil around the septic tank from getting too saturated.
It is best to take preventative action to avoid major problems with the septic system so follow the recommendations for best care practices and be familiar with warning signs that maintenance may be needed.
If it didn’t go through your mouth –don’t flush it, a good rule of thumb is not to flush things into the septic that did not go through your mouth. Your system likes items that will easily decompose. In the long term, it will help your septic system to work longer with less maintenance. Summer is a great time for you and your family to review the list and share with your guest. Avoid flushing cat litter, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, condoms, grease & oils, cotton swabs, dental floss, diapers, disposable wipes, feminine hygiene products, hair, paper towels, plastics, and static cling sheets. These items will quickly fill your septic tank with solids, decreasing its efficiency, and require it to be pumped out more frequently. They could also clog your septic system components or otherwise cause a system failure and leave a big mess.
Here are some summertime tips for septic tank maintenance:
PARK VEHICLES AWAY FROM THE SEPTIC SYSTEM
Be sure you know where your septic system is located. And keep all vehicle traffic off the tank, pipes, and drain field. The only exception is the lawnmower.
PUMP YOUR SYSTEM BEFORE THE PARTY
Check to see when the last time your septic tank was pumped. If you don’t know or if it has been more than 5 years, chances are it’s time for pumping by West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Service. You can greatly reduce the likelihood of failure, avoid costly repairs, and gain peace of mind by having your system regularly inspected and pumped as needed. If you are hosting a large number of people, consider pumping your septic system before the party. The worst type of party fouls is a leaky smelly mess in your yard. You may also consider renting a CAT CAN PORTABLE RESTROOM for the event to take the pressure off your septic system.
LANDSCAPE WITH LOVE
Summer may be the right time to do some landscaping renovations in your yard. Be mindful of any new plantings. Grass is the ideal cover for drain fields. You can also plant other very shallow-rooted plants or flowers. However, keep in mind that if you don’t have risers installed you will need to dig up the ground to access the tanks for inspection and pumping – generally every 3-5 years. Avoid deep-rooted plants, trees, shrubs, and vegetables over your system. As a general rule, trees and large shrubs should be kept at least 30 feet away from your drain field (depending on the root structure and soil type). Do not fertilize over the drain field.
At West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Service, we find that there is a lot of confusion when it comes to septic tanks and home disposal systems. We hope to give you the information you need so that you understand and get the most from your septic system. Contact us today!
