Septic Tank Maintenance for Your Boston MA Residence

I guess the septic tank is the least plumbing priority in any household, since it is underground and we can’t really see what’s going on there. 

However, our septic tanks need attention too, and I mean serious attention. Why? Because you wouldn’t want to have an overflowing toilet, funky odors coming out of your drainages, blockages in your sewage systems, or contaminating your water system would you?

 

Your Septic Tank Needs Attention

Septic tanks are usually not given the proper attention and maintenance in many households all over the world.  Most people don’t realize the dangers that this can actually impose towards our environment and moreover, our loved ones. If our septic tank is not working properly, this can lead to blockages and backflows which can then lead to contaminating our drinking water.

How a Septic Tank Works

Wastewater from your bathrooms, kitchens and other drains go down the pipeline and right into the septic tank.  From there, liquid is separated from solid waste. 

It allows solid waste to settle to the bottom of the tank, while the rising scum sits at the top.  On the surface of the waste are the all fat and oil deposits that form the crust. Fecal matter and other waste stay at the very bottom of the tank and become the sludge. 

Any excess liquid collected inside the tank is drained out and bacteria goes to work breaking down solids that stay behind.  Now, the wastewater goes to the drain field and the baffles stop the crust from entering the opening of the septic tank. It is a complex but useful system that does a lot for us.  

Maintenance is Important

Making sure that your septic tank is properly cared for and maintained is relatively simple and extends beyond just having it pumped annually.  Let’s see what you can do to extend the lifespan of your septic system at home.

• For starters, make sure that there isn’t anything heavy over the area where your tank is buried.  Things like parked cars or trailers, cement or a swimming pool can damage the pipes and the septic tank itself.  Make sure that you keep the area above the septic system cleared.
• Avoid flushing anything down the drain that doesn’t belong there.  These things include sanitary pads, diapers, cigarette butts. They can’t be broken down by bacteria.  Excessive use will clog up the drain field that will cause a blockage, meaning you’ll have to pump your tank sooner.
• Try not to use a huge amount of household chemicals.  You may also use some bleach and detergent, however, steer clear of drain cleaners and other harsh stuff that can stop the bacterial action in the tank.  
• Finally, help your septic tank operate at optimal level by pouring a liter of sour milk down the drain every few months to help promote the bacteria growth.  

Regular Check Up and Cleaning

To prevent all the waste from getting deeper which can cause the solid waste to block the air spaces in the soil drainage system, your septic tank must be cleaned every year by sucking all the waste out and leaving the tank empty. Otherwise, drainage problems might occur and the wastewater will not be washed away by the natural soil bacteria – that is where the problem will start.

Always remember to prioritize your septic tanks and make it a point to have it cleaned at least once a year for safety measures. 

It does not hurt to spend a little if you know that you are doing your share for the environment and most especially if you are keeping your family out of danger. For more convenient and surefire service, call our reputable and experienced Boston plumbers today at 877-755-0157!