The new year is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to ensure your home’s septic system is functioning properly. A faulty septic system can cause many problems, from minor issues, like a foul odor, to emergencies such as sewage backing up into your appliances. With a few simple habits, you can prevent unexpected issues, avoid costly repairs and keep your septic system running efficiently all year-round. In this post, we will be going over how you can prevent septic system problems in the new year.

Pay Attention to What Goes Down the Drain

What you put down your drains impacts how your septic system performs. For example, you should never flush anything down the toilet aside from toilet paper. Flushing paper towels, wet wipes or napkins can cause a blockage in the septic system because these other items don’t break down like toilet paper does.

Another thing you should avoid doing is rinsing fats, oils and grease in the kitchen. When these substances inevitably cool, they solidify and then can build up in the pipes. This can reduce water flow and also contribute to sewage backup.

Protect Your Drainfield

The drainfield is one of the most important components in the septic system. It’s responsible for filtering the wastewater, so it’s crucial to keep the area clear and protected. Be sure not to block the drainfield by parking your vehicle over it or placing heavy equipment on top of it. If the drainfield is obstructed, it can compact the soil and reduce how much water is drained.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

Although you can take the necessary precautions, the best way to prevent a septic issue is to get a professional inspection. A trained septic professional can identify signs of tank buildup, drainfield strain and clogs before they become a problem. It’s important for homeowners to schedule a septic inspection every one to three years. It should be noted, however, that large households or older homes may require additional inspections.

Use Your Water Wisely

This tip may seem odd, but excess water can actually overload your septic system. Running appliances, like the dishwasher and laundry machine, at the same time can put unnecessary strain on the system and reduce its efficiency.

The septic system is one of the most important parts of any household and must be routinely maintained. No homeowner in Winston-Salem, NC should enter the new year with a malfunctioning septic system, so contact Straight Flush Septic to schedule an appointment today.