When it comes to home maintenance, there are few things as important as properly maintaining your plumbing and septic system. When plumbing issues arise, it can bring your life to a screeching halt, no matter what system you have. According to the CDC, approximately 21% of American homes are using an onsite sewage disposal system and 95% of these are tank field systems. If you have a septic system, there are many small things you can do to keep it in great shape. In this guide, we'll review some important steps in maintaining your septic system.

1. Look Out for Leaks

If you wait until you just discover a leak to call the septic system cleaners, you've already waited too long. Septic leaks usually happen in places that are not visible. This means that leaks can often be going on for some time before they ever come to your attention. This can lead to water damage and worsening issues with your pipes over time. If you see a particularly green patch of lawn over your septic tank, this can be a warning sign of a tank leak.

In addition to causing damage in your home, septic leaks will also add to your water bills every month, as water is continually being wasted. Leaks can also lead to dampness, which will attract pests and can then lead to even more expenses and problems to be solved. Addressing leaks in your septic system is key to keeping it in great shape.

2. Address Slow Moving Drains

When you first start to notice a slow-moving drain, it's a good idea to go ahead and deal with it ASAP. While it may be a subtle difference in your water pressure, it can also mean a backup somewhere along the line, putting strain on your pipes. Look to have your septic system inspected to ensure that it isn't the root of the problem. Ignoring these small changes can cost you down the road.

3. Be Careful What You Flush

One of the biggest contributors to pipe problems is flushing things down the drain that simply don't belong there. There are only a few things that should ever go down the drain: toilet tissue, human waste, and water. Some types of flushable wipes are safe to go down your toilet, but you should be very careful with these. When you flush things down the toilet that should not be there, you will wind up with clogged drains and a poorly working septic system.

4. Invest in Septic Pumping Regularly

When you have a septic system on your property, it's crucial that you keep it pumped and maintained on a strict schedule. These systems were only designed to house so much waste, so putting off your septic tank pumping can put unnecessary strain on your pipes, tank, and more. Aside from the necessary pumping of your system, consider utilizing septic system cleaners and repair technicians as well. While it's important to empty your tank, it's also important to keep it clean and functioning.

5. Don't Rely on Your Judgment Alone

When it comes to septic systems, there may be a lot you don't know about your system and how it works. If you want to feel confident that your tank and system are in great shape, it's a great idea to call in professional septic system cleaners to take a good look at them. The team will examine your septic tank, potentially pointing out any issues that you should be concerned about. Relying on the experts can save you time and money down the road. You may even learn something you never knew about your system!

6. Upgrade Your System When It Becomes a Liability

Septic systems don't last forever. If your septic system cleaners have a hard time completing a job or you notice frequent repairs that need to be done, it may be time to upgrade your old system. Fortunately, several modern septic system models can have your home up and running normally in no time. Call your trusted local septic company to install the perfect system for your unique property. Don't wait until your system inevitably breaks down. Invest in preventative measures and replace your system as soon as it shows signs of breaking down.

Septic systems are complicated and critical elements of many homes across the United States and beyond. Take great care of your system by calling our septic system cleaners at Reliable Septic & Services today. We look forward to helping you keep your septic tank in pristine condition!