3 Common Reasons A Septic System Fails
Living in a home with a septic system can be quite a bit different than living in a home connected to a sewer system. While a septic system can provide a very efficient waste management solution, a homeowner needs to be a little more proactive to help ensure that the system does not fail. Some of the most common causes for septic system failure include:
Failure to Maintain It Properly
If your home has a septic system, it is essential that it be maintained on a regular basis. A septic system needs to be inspected regularly to ensure that all components are in good working order. During a septic system inspection, the waste level in the septic tank will also be checked. When the waste level gets high, it is very important to schedule a septic tank pumping service to ensure that the tank does not overflow and spew waste into the yard and up through the drains in your house. You never want to skip a much-needed septic tank inspection or pumping!
Excessive Water Usage
In a septic system, solid waste collects in the septic tank, while liquid waste is disposed of through drain lines underneath the ground. If too much water goes down the drain, the soil will not be able to absorb the liquid and move it down the drain field. When this happens, large pools of liquid waste can form in the yard. Homeowners with a septic system need to be mindful of the amount of water going down the drain to prevent a septic system failure—avoid running the sink for long periods of time when you don't need to, and make an effort to avoid using a large amount of water in a short period of time.
Using Chemicals
A septic tank is able to work well because there are many different types of bacteria present inside it that help break down and decompose the solid waste. The bacterial balance of a septic tank is very important, and if it is disrupted, the amount of waste in the septic tank can pile up quickly. If you want to prevent your septic system from failing, avoid pouring any kind of chemicals down the drains in your home, since the chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria. Things like drain cleaner, bleach, and other household cleaners should be used sparingly in toilets and drains in order to keep the ecosystem of the tank healthy.
For additional information and advice, contact a company like B&E Septic Services.
