You realize the amount of time, effort, and money it takes to check and maintain your septic tank system. You went through the process and followed your inspector’s recommendations so that you will prolong the life your system for years to come. You’ve kept great detailed records of all of your maintenance so that you will be able to track it and show it off to potential buyers down the road. Now there’s only one thing left to do and that’s protecting your septic tank’s most valuable assets!
There are several things to keep in mind when trying to be proactive with protecting your system. By following these simple rules you will be able to make sure all the effort you have put into maintaining your tank is not in vain.
Do not plant anything but grass around your tank. Trees, bushes, even plants and flowers can root deep into the ground and find their way to your tank. This can cause damage to the tank and compromise its shell.
Do not allow anyone to drive ANYTHING over your system. Heavy machinery, vehicles, even riding lawn mowers are dangerous for the septic tank. It just takes one small hairline fracture to put your entire system in jeopardy.
Do not build anything over the drainfield. It is crucial to keep the drainfield available for inspectors to access so they can survey your tank. Grass is the most appropriate thing to use when covering your drainfield.
Other wise practices in protecting your septic tank system is to conserve water, being mindful as to what is put down your drain as harmful items can damage your tank, and having your septic inspected annually. Just being aware of what is happening in your property is an important part of making sure your system isn’t under undo stress.
It is crucial to educate everyone in your household what the septic tank is, where it is located, and why it is important. If everyone understands what can and can’t go down the drain and what is most harmful for your septic tank system, then the best maintenance practices can begin from everyone in the household.
From being proactive with protection to taking the time and effort to have your system inspected and maintained, if followed correctly your tank life will increase, your property value will increase, and you can rest easy knowing that you and your loved ones won’t have to worry about a septic tank emergency.
