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As a homeowner, proper maintenance and upkeep of your septic tank is critical in protecting the investment of your home. If you don’t inspect your system periodically and pump out your septic tank every few years, your dream home could turn into a nightmare.  

A septic system consists of a pipe that carries your excess household wastewater to a septic tank, where wastewater sets, separating solids (sludge) from oil and grease (scum). The wastewater then exits the septic tank, where it flows into a drainfield, and is further treated by soil. Sludge remains in the basin of the tank, and should be pumped out periodically to ensure proper maintenance.

An overabundance of sludge and scum could mean big problems and require big money to fix. The size of your house and the amount of people living in it will determine how often you need to have your septic system pumped out. Generally, your tank needs to be pumped every three to five years. If you have an alternative system with pumps, float switches or mechanical components, inspections should be done at least once per year by a certified septic pump specialist. Using additives monthly will also aid in the upkeep of your tank.

Even though flushing little things down the toilet, such as dental floss, may not seem like a big deal, it really is. Clogs in your septic tank may not just block it up, but they could potentially damage it to the point of needing costly repairs or replacement.

A septic system that is working properly will remove most of the pollutants found in your wastewater. The soil near the drainfield will help filter out whatever contaminants are left after the waste is emptied. If it’s inadequately maintained, there is a possibility of ground water contamination.

Ecologically, it’s important to not flush chemicals down any drains. If you do, it’s highly possible for groundwater and surface waters to become contaminated—which potentially poses a dangerous health risk to you, your family and the environment. Before you dump anything down your drain, read the label and see if it is considered “poisonous” or “hazardous”. If the chemical is considered “poisonous” or “hazardous,” assume that it is not okay to pour it down the drain.  

To help ensure your septic tank will work properly, try to conserve water whenever possible. Install high-efficiency toilets, faucet aerators and fix any leaks that you may have. Don’t overload your tank by washing all your laundry in one day, and be sure to use the proper setting when it comes to washing your clothes—don’t wash a small load on an extra-large setting.

If you’re considering buying a home with a septic tank, you will need to have it inspected by a professional septic contractor. The contractor will need to dig holes to access the underground parts of the system, including inspecting the tank as well as the drainfield. A professional septic contractor should be able to perform both the inspection and pump the tank at the same time, leaving you with a “clean slate” to start your life in your new home.