When homeowners inspect and maintain their septic systems on a regular basis, it prevents contaminated liquid from leaking into the ground. This, in turn, keeps dangerous chemicals, harmful pathogens, and even excessive nutrients out of both the soil and water. A well-maintained septic system can last for half a century or longer.
Protect the Soil
Regular pumping of your system keeps sludge out of the drainage area. This, in turn, prevents toxic pools of water and cuts down on soil erosion. Furthermore, when waste is kept underground, it makes the whole area safe for gardening, pets, and nature in general.
Furthermore, stagnant, unpumped liquid leads to the emission of greenhouse gases and contributes to global warming. Even small emissions add up!
Protect the Water
The proper maintenance and pumping of a system keeps chemicals away from fish and other aquatic life that can be killed by them. Additionally, it keeps contaminated water away from aquifers and other supplies of drinking water. Finally, moving along excessive nitrogen deposits helps prevent the unnatural algae blooms that they contribute to.
What to Do
The first step is to have your system inspected every year and pumped at least every five years, even if you aren’t noticing any problems. Non-traditional systems may require even more maintenance. Spring is the best time to both inspect and pump your system.
Pumping is perhaps the single most important action to take because it prevents solid buildup, moves along sludge, and helps protect against leaks. Also, when your system is pumped on a regular basis, it is more likely to be operating at peak efficiency. By contrast, an overloaded system leads to not only leaks but mechanical breakdowns that cost you money.
In general, try to keep your water usage to a minimum. Not only is this good for the planet and your water bills, but it also helps your septic system last as long as possible.
Using natural cleaners will help break down solids through bacteria. Avoid chemical treatments as much as possible, and don’t put chemicals down the drain in general. Not all septic systems use pumps, but if yours does, replace them every ten years or so.
On a daily basis, stagger how you are using water. For example, it’s a bad idea to do both the laundry and take a shower at the same time because this could contribute to system overload. As far as above the surface goes, avoid parking any type of motorized vehicles on the drain field because this contributes to erosion.
Proper septic maintenance is good for both you and the planet. It also enhances the value of your entire property. It’s the right thing to do from both practical and ethical standpoints. When you need septic maintenance services in Eugene, OR, contact Loose Deuce Septic & Tank Services.
