New septic system owners often have a lot of
questions, such as “How does a septic system work?,” “How do I maintain my septic system?,” and “Who should I use for
septic cleaning services?” Fortunately, the answers to those questions are not that complicated. Let’s go through the basics of what beginners need to know for a healthy system.
How a Septic System Works
Septic systems typically consist of a septic tank, drainfield (also called a “leach field”), and plumbing lines. Here’s how your system works to breakdown organic waste and treat wastewater:
- The wastewater runs from your home’s main drainage pipe into the septic tank.
- “Sludge” (solids) settles to the bottom of the tank and “scum” (floatable matter) rises to the top. Compartments keep the sludge and scum from exiting the tank.
- The “effluent” (liquid wastewater) leaves the tank and goes into the drainfield.
- The pretreated wastewater is discharged through pipes into porous surfaces, which then filter it through the soil.
- The drainfield naturally removes coliform bacteria (found in feces), viruses, and nutrients from the wastewater.
- The treated wastewater is then discharged into groundwater.
When the septic tank becomes full, it needs to be pumped out.
Septic tank pumping is generally needed every three to four years, but you may need it more or less frequently depending on the tank’s size, household occupancy, and other factors.
Essentials of Septic Maintenance
1. Septic Tank Pumping
Pumping is crucial for
preventing septic tank overload. The industry standard is typically three to four years for a family of four, but there are variables that may require to have more frequent pumping, such as:
- An old, outdated system (pre-1986)
- Use of antibacterial soaps and detergents
- Use of cooking oils
- Excessive water consumption
- Occupants taking some types of prescribed medications
- Heavy use of a garbage disposal
2. Flush Wisely
All the drains in your home lead into your septic tank, so be very mindful of what you flush and put in your
garbage disposal and other pipes. Septic systems are designed for only organic waste and shouldn't have any of the following:
- Wipes (even "flushable"), paper towels
- Medications, supplements
- Feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers
- Dental floss, toothpicks
- Pet hair, food, waste
- Cigarette butts, tobacco
- Bones, dried beans, popcorn kernels
- Fibrous, starchy food (e.g. celery, potato peels)
3. Efficiently Use Water
Avoid overloading your septic tank by being more efficient with water consumption. For example, spread out
washing laundry instead of doing multiple loads at one time, shorten your showers, turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth, etc. Installing energy-efficient toilets and washing machines is also a good idea.
4. Avoid Foods Scraps and Grease in Drains
Prevent clogs from forming by tossing food leftovers into the trash, particularly fibrous or starchy foods like celery, potato peels, rice, and pasta. And properly dispose of grease, oil, and fat because, when cooled, they harden and create blockages.
5. Keep the Drainfield Area Clear
Drainsfields absorb and neutralize liquid waste, so make sure to keep it clear of cars, structures, concrete/asphalt, machinery, and livestock to prevent the soil from compacting. Also, plant grass over the area to minimize soil erosion and avoid planting trees too close to it so the roots don’t interfere with your septic system.
6. Use a Bacteria Maintenance Product
Your septic tank requires beneficial bacteria to break down waste. Since chemical cleaners can kill good bacteria, it's important to help these little guys periodically.
Honey-Wagon sells a powerful bacteria product, called Honey-Zyme, that helps promote the breakdown of paper, waste, hair, and oils. Simply flush the granulated formula and that's it!
Maintain Your System with Confidence
By understanding how your septic system works and the maintenance basics, you’re off to a great start in taking proper care of your system! The only thing left to do is
choose a company to provide septic cleaning services for your system. Ask your neighbors for recommendations, research online,
read verified reviews, and check that the company is licensed and insured.
Need septic services in Kansas City?
Honey-Wagon is a family-owned and operated septic cleaning & maintenance company that’s been around since 1986.
Contact us today for an estimate!