Septic systems are often forgotten until there’s a problem. Different seasons bring a range of conditions that can impact your septic system and interfere with its proper functioning. Harsh winters can lead to a frozen septic tank, while warm weather can lead to increased water usage. Here at Septic Connection, we advise homeowners to prioritize septic system care to prepare for all seasons of the year. Nobody wants to deal with a septic emergency when the temperatures plummet or have their household routine disrupted when there’s fun and relaxation during warm weather. Neglecting proper septic system care can lead to blockages, septic tank overflows, water contamination, and many other problems.
Read on for seasonal septic system care tips from our knowledgeable and experienced septic technicians.
- Pump Out the Tank
Before winter or summer sets in, enlist a local septic company to pump out your septic tank if necessary. The recommended pumping frequency depends on various factors, like tank size, household occupancy, and wastewater volume. Typically, professional septic pumping in Greer is needed every 3-5 years. However, consult a septic professional for a specific recommendation based on your system’s needs.
Why is regular septic pumping important
Regular pumping removes accumulated solids and scum that can clog the drainfield and hinder the system’s functionality. It also prevents backups and overflows, protecting your property from potential damage and health hazards.
- Insulate the Drainfield
Apply a protective layer of insulation material, like mulch or insulated blankets, over the drainfield during winter. This helps retain heat in the soil and prevents the drainfield from freezing. Excessively low temperatures can damage the pipes and components of the drainfield, leading to costly repairs. Insulation safeguards the system and ensures its proper function throughout the winter.
- Minimize Water Usage
Excessive water use can overload your septic tank and drainfield. You should implement water-saving practices like taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and using water-efficient appliances. Avoid running multiple loads consecutively to prevent overloading the septic system.
- Keep the Tank Lid Accessible
Remove any objects or landscaping around the tank lid to allow for easy access during inspections and maintenance. If the tank lid is buried underground, clearly mark its location with a marker or flag to avoid accidental damage during yard work.
- Divert Rainwater and Snowmelt Away
Install gutters and downspouts to channel rainwater away from the drainfield to prevent excessive water infiltration that can overload the system.
- Schedule Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Schedule regular septic inspections with a licensed septic professional to identify and address any potential issues early on. This proactive approach can prevent minor problems from turning into major system failures and costly repairs. Follow the professional’s recommendations for maintenance practices specific to your system, which may include septic tank cleaning, hydrojetting, drainfield cleaning, and more.
Need Help With Your Septic System? Call Septic Connection
Septic Connection is a professional septic company offering a range of reliable septic services, including septic tank cleaning, septic tank installation, septic pumping in Greer, routine septic system maintenance, and many more. We have acquired many years of professional experience and know all the ins and outs of keeping your septic system in tip-top shape.