Septic systems typically have long lifespans, especially if you’re following best practices. These tips range from implementing additional services and maintenance on your system, to specific practices to avoid. Not only do these improve the efficiency of your system for everyday use, but they also extend the life of your septic system.
The typical septic system lifespan is 15-25 years, but it is not unheard of for some tanks to last decades longer. We recommend these tips to get the maximum out of your system.
How to Extend your Septic System’s Lifespan
Regular Pumping
Pumping your septic tank serves two purposes: removing solids to provide more room for waste, and improving the septic tank’s lifespan. It’s the easiest and most common component of preventative maintenance for septic systems. Not only will you feel a difference in the short term, but the long-term benefits include less stress on your tank and more years of efficient waste management.
Working with your local septic provider is the best way to find the perfect schedule for pumping. Waiting as long as 3-5 years between pumping takes years of the potential life of your septic tank, so avoid putting it off for too long.
Use Septic Additives
Similar to the benefit of pumping, using septic additives help reduce the amount of solids in your tank. Over time and through the use of anti-bacterial products or bleaches, the helpful bacteria in your tank that breaks down solid begin to die. This results in a slower solid removal process, which in turn creates more strain on your septic tank and shortens its lifespan.
Septic bacteria tend to be less effective in the winter, so the colder months are the perfect time to contact your local septic provider about adding additives to your maintenance schedule.
Avoid Unnecessary Stress from Your Solids
We always recommend against using a garbage disposal with a septic system, but there are additional things to avoid in order to protect your system. Certain items should never be flushed or poured down drains. These items include grease, Q-tips, baby wipes, and anything with the potential to get stuck in drains. Not only are these clogging hazards, but they add unnecessary solids into your tank that are not easily broken down by bacteria.
The experts at Wind River Environmental are available to help extend the lifespan of your septic system with world-class septic services. If you have any inquiries about proper septic maintenance, call Wind River Environmental at (877) 560-9007. For any septic questions or issues, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
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