How to Properly Care for Your Septic System: Septic Tank Services in Highland, IN
Keeping Your Septic Tank in Top Shape
Your septic system is a crucial part of your home’s infrastructure, handling all the wastewater from your house. To ensure it operates efficiently and avoids costly repairs, it’s essential to maintain it properly. At Feikema Plumbing & Sanitation, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners in Highland, IN, keep their septic systems in excellent condition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts for maintaining a healthy septic system.
Understanding Your Septic System
What Does a Septic System Do?
Your septic system is designed to treat and dispose of your household wastewater. It comprises a septic tank and a drain field. The septic tank separates solids from liquids, allowing bacteria to break down the organic matter. The liquid then flows into the drain field, where it gets further treated by the soil.
Why Maintenance is Crucial
Regular maintenance is essential to prevent backups, extend your system’s life, and protect the environment. Neglecting your septic system can lead to failures, expensive repairs, and even health hazards.
The Dos of Septic System Care
Do Regular Inspections and Pumping
One of the most critical aspects of septic system maintenance is regular inspections and pumping. We recommend having your septic tank inspected by a professional every three years and pumped every three to five years, depending on your household size and usage. This helps prevent solids from building up and causing blockages or overflows.
Do Use Water Efficiently
Conserving water helps maintain the balance within your septic system. Excessive water can overload the system, reducing its efficiency. Install high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, and faucets, and promptly fix any leaks. Small changes in water usage can significantly impact the longevity and functionality of your septic system.
Do Proper Waste Disposal
Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet and pour down the drains. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Avoid disposing of fats, oils, grease, and non-biodegradable items in your septic system. These materials can cause clogs and disrupt the bacterial balance necessary for waste breakdown.
Do Protect the Drain Field
The drain field is an essential component of your septic system. Protect it by keeping vehicles and heavy equipment off the area, avoiding planting trees and shrubs nearby, and directing roof drains and other surface water away from it. A well-maintained drain field ensures that your septic system functions efficiently.
The Don’ts of Septic System Care
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, disrupting the treatment process. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners and opt for natural or septic-safe cleaning products instead. These bacteria are crucial for breaking down waste and keeping your system running smoothly.
Don’t Flush Non-Biodegradable Items
Flushing items like diapers, sanitary products, wipes, and dental floss can cause clogs and damage your septic system. Stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper to avoid these issues. Even items labeled as “flushable” can be harmful to your septic system.
Don’t Ignore Signs of Trouble
If you notice slow drains, foul odors, or standing water around your septic system, don’t ignore these signs. They can indicate a problem that needs immediate attention from a professional. Early intervention can prevent more severe issues and costly repairs.
Don’t Overload the System
Avoid overloading your septic system with large amounts of water in a short period. Spread out your laundry loads and be mindful of water use during heavy rainfalls to prevent system overload. Consistent water usage helps maintain the balance within your septic system.
When to Call a Professional
Even with regular maintenance, there are times when you need a professional to step in. Here are some situations where calling Feikema Plumbing & Sanitation is your best move:
- Persistent Slow Drains – If your drains are slow despite your best efforts, it could be a sign of a bigger issue in the septic system.
- Foul Odors – Unpleasant smells coming from your drains or around your septic tank indicate a problem that needs professional attention.
- Standing Water – Puddles or soggy spots around your drain field or septic tank area can signify a malfunction.
- Backups and Overflows – Sewage backing up into your home is an emergency that requires immediate professional intervention.
How We Can Help
At Feikema Plumbing & Sanitation, we are the professionals you need for all your septic tank services in Highland, IN. Here’s how we can assist:
- Expertise and Experience – Our team has years of experience handling all aspects of septic system care. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, we have the skills and knowledge to ensure your system operates smoothly.
- Comprehensive Services – We offer a full range of septic services, including inspections, pumping, repairs, and installations. Using the latest equipment and techniques, we ensure your septic system is efficient and long-lasting.
- Customer-Focused Approach – We prioritize exceptional customer service. From the initial consultation to the completion of the job, we listen to your concerns and provide solutions tailored to your needs. Your satisfaction is our goal.
Contact Us Today
Maintaining a healthy septic system is crucial for your home’s well-being and the environment. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your septic tank in Highland, IN, operates efficiently and lasts for years to come. If you need professional septic tank services, trust the experts at Feikema Plumbing & Sanitation. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our services.
Keep your septic system in top shape with Feikema Plumbing & Sanitation—your trusted partner for all your septic needs in Highland, IN.