4 TIPS FOR MAINTAINING
YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM THIS FALL
Before the temperatures dip too low this fall, it’s a good idea to do some simple maintenance on your septic system to keep it properly functioning through the cold winter months. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. These four simple tips for maintaining your septic system this fall will likely be all the prevention you need to keep yourself worry-free this winter.
DO A THOROUGH FALL CLEAN-UP OF THE AREA AROUND YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM
Leaves and natural debris, like twigs and fallen branches, should be cleared from the area around your septic system. The main reason for doing this is to clear the way should you need to have your septic system serviced this fall or winter. Similar to the problems mulch can create, leaves and twigs could wreak havoc if they fall into your septic tank during a maintenance or repair visit, potentially causing serious damage to your septic’s pumps and aerator.
FORGET TO MOW
Here’s a maintenance tip we really like because it actually requires you to do nothing. By skipping the last mowing of the season, you allow an added layer of insulation to help prevent your septic system from freezing during the colder months. Yes, there are septic blankets that can be used for the same purpose, but simply letting your grass grow to about 6” will provide similar protection.
TEND TO ANY LEAKS INSIDE THE HOUSE
Colder months put added stresses on your septic system, including stresses on the septic bacterium as well as from the fats, oils, and grease within your system. Because of the added stress the winter months put on your septic system, we recommend conserving water as much as you can, which includes taking care of any pesky leaks in faucets or toilets throughout the house. The average household’s leaks can account for 10,000 gallons of extra water being filtered through the septic system each year. That’s enough to wash more than 270 loads of laundry! Reduce the stress on your septic system by taking care of these leaks before winter hits.
SCHEDULE A FALL SEPTIC MAINTENANCE VISIT
A routine septic maintenance visit in the fall will ensure your system is functioning most efficiently as you head into the cold, winter months. Your septic system should be pumped every 1-3 years, depending on usage and the size of the household. If your system has an aerator, it should be inspected every six months to make sure it is functioning properly. While you can certainly have your system serviced during the winter, getting ahead of any maintenance issues before the snow starts flying will keep you worry-free this winter.
Have you scheduled your fall maintenance septic visit yet?