3 Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Septic Tank

There's no better time to get your home and lawn ready for the summer months than the present! Spring is just around the corner and if you have a septic system there are three things you can do to keep things flushing smoothly and your lawn looking great! Contact us today to schedule your Central Pa septic service, or keep reading to learn more.

First things first, start with this quick checklist to see if there are any specific issues to look into.

• Is your septic system functioning properly?
• Is your drainfield healthy (no wet spots or soggy areas in your grass)?
• Are your sinks and toilets draining quickly and flushing properly?
• Has your septic system been pumped within the last 2-3 years?

If you've answered "No" to any of the questions above, it's time to give us a call. We'll perform a site visit to get to the root of your issues and pump out your tank to make sure things are moving again. If you answered "Yes" then here are some tips to keep your system ready for the busy spring and summer months.

1. Use a septic additive to help your tank break down waste and keep things flowing
   A septic system additive like Bio-Active can help keep your system healthy. If you regularly use anti-bacterial products or flush harsh chemicals down the drain, you may be destroying the “healthy” bacteria needed to break down solids and process waste. An additive contains the right kind of bacteria to help restore balance and keep your tank functioning properly. If your septic system has a history of backups or problems, an additive like Bio-Active can help keep things flushing smoothly. By regulating your tank’s bacteria levels, additives break down solids and waste so your tank drains properly and is easy to pump every 2-4 years.
   
   
2. Be mindful of your water use, especially during those rainy spring days
   Reducing the water flow into the system produces less agitation within the tank, keeping the solid waste at the bottom of the tank. Keeping the solids in the tank prolongs drainfield life. Your system was designed to handle certain amounts of water based on the number of occupants living at your residence when the system was installed. Make adjustments if your water consumption has increased or your habits require above average water use.
   
   
3. Never flush or rinse cleaning supplies, paint, grease or chemical products down the drain
   While you're busy with all your spring cleaning, don't forget that when you have a septic system you need to be extra careful about what you flush. And if you have a garbage disposal, use it sparingly! Garbage disposals can increase the amount of solids in your septic tank by up to 50%. Be sure to only use septic safe products when it comes to what you flush, and be sure to use the strainer in your kitchen sink. These are some of the simplest ways to keep your septic tank healthy and working properly.

Follow these simple tips for a worry-free spring season and don't forget to give us a call for all of your septic system needs. From septic tank pumping in Central Pa to inspections, repairs and grease trap maintenance, our team is here to help.