Residential Septic Pumping in Strafford County, NH and Other Ways to Extend the Life of Your Septic System

June 1, 2018 6:20 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

A septic tank is not something you want to have to replace often, which is why maintenance is important. When cared for properly, a septic tank and other system parts can typically last for several decades, while neglecting a tank can lead to plumbing backups. From maintaining good bacteria in the tank to keeping up with regular residential septic pumping in Strafford County, NH, here are some simple ways to extend the life of your septic system:

  • Schedule regular septic tank pumping: Regular pumping is the key to keeping your tank in good condition. How often you need to pump your septic tank depends on factors like household size, the amount of water used and the condition of your septic system. For instance, a vacation home or a home with only one or two residents that uses little water can typically go three to five years without septic pumping. On the other hand, larger families (four or more people) and homes that host a lot of visitors or parties may need tank pumping every year or two.
  • Flush proper materials only: The purpose of a toilet is to flush away human waste and toilet paper—nothing else. Even biodegradable materials, like coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable peels and eggshells, are a no-go. They are slow to decompose, meaning they don’t break down fast enough in septic tanks to avoid causing backups. Other things that shouldn’t be flushed include feminine hygiene products, condoms, moist wipes (even if they are “approved for septic”), tissues and paper towels, hair and cat litter.
  • Keep chemicals out of drains: Septic tanks rely on bacteria to help break down solid materials, but all too often chemicals are put down drains, and they will kill the bacteria, so never put any chemicals down your drains—including drain cleaners, paint, disinfectants and other household cleaners with chemicals. The result is an imbalance that will reduce the effectiveness of your septic tank.
  • Dig or build away from your septic system: Before starting a construction project or landscaping project, make sure the site is far enough away from your septic tank and drain field. You wouldn’t want to begin laying the foundation of a new home addition or digging a hole for new trees only to discover that you’re too close to your septic system—or worse, for tools hit the septic tank and damage it.
  • Prevent rain runoff damage: Downspouts move rainwater away from your house, but are you making sure the water is also moving away from your septic system? Excess rain runoff will quickly drown your septic tank and flood the drain field. If this happens too frequently, you could be looking at permanent damage and costly repairs. The simplest way to avoid overflowing is to direct rain runoff to a location as far away from your septic system as possible.

Preventative maintenance and proper use can extend the lifespan of your septic system. Call B.H. Cameron Septic Services LLC today to schedule residential septic pumping in Strafford County, NH!

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