If your home has a septic system, it is critically important that you and your family understand what needs to be done in order to keep your septic tank in good working condition. Failure to do so could lead to you having to reach out to a Pittsburgh emergency plumber with a back up problem on your hands. In order to ensure that things continue flowing smoothly, keep the following tips in mind.
Conserve Water
Your septic tank is designed to hold a large amount of waste before it needs to be pumped, but it's important to keep in mind that it can only handle incoming water and waste at a certain rate. Sending too much into your septic tank in a short period of time could cause a backup problem. To that end, don't run the water in the shower or sink longer than you need to, and try to your laundry throughout the week instead of doing multiple loads all on the same day.
Be Careful About What You Put Down the Drain
A septic tank is designed to break down waste products as they enter the tank. But certain items will be more difficult for the tank to break down than others. In general, never flush anything down the toilet besides toilet paper. Paper towels, sanitary napkins and diapers are three things you should definitely throw away in a trash can. Follow the same logic when you are cleaning up after a meal. Grease and leftovers should be disposed of in the trash, not down the drain.
Stay Clear of the Septic Line
Another important tip you'll want to follow is to avoid putting anything near the septic line that could cause a potential issue. For example, don't park your RV or boat anywhere near the tank or line if you intend to store it on your property for the winter. Likewise, be mindful of any trees in the area and never let any trees or other overgrowth come near the septic line, as the roots could cause significant damage over time.
Of course, the best way to ensure that your septic tank continues operating smoothly is to schedule a regular maintenance appointment with some local plumbers. The experts at Stahl Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning have years of experience when it comes to performing maintenance on septic systems. Stahl's qualified plumbers will be able to help you fix any potential issues before they become a larger problem and will also be able to assist when it comes time to pump the tank. Reach out to Stahl Plumbing Pittsburgh today for more information.