It takes anywhere between US$ 2500 to US$ 7500 to replace an average septic tank. This is exactly why it is of utmost importance to take care of your septic tank and conduct maintenance regularly. Routine septic tank maintenance would save you from spending a ton of money on its repair or replacement, and as a bonus would also allow you to be present in a healthy, safe, and odor-free environment. This article serves as a guide for newbies to septic tanks and their maintenance and covers all topics that one may need to know about briefly.

What is a Septic Tank?

A septic tank is essentially an underground tank that collects sewage from all areas of a home or a commercial building and decomposes it through bacterial action. Once the collected sewage is decomposed, it is drained away safely through soakaway. With proper maintenance and care, a septic tank system can last homeowners for up to 30 years or more. The septic tank is a part of the septic system, which contains the tank itself and a drain field. 

What are the steps to maintain your septic tank?

Septic tank and system maintenance essentially involve four steps which are as follows:

1. You should be regular with pumping

Since multiple homes in a locality usually share a septic tank, every household using a septic system should be on maintenance duty and follow a service schedule to avoid long gaps in its maintenance. This would also ensure that no accumulation of solids or waste material occurs in the tank and all households are equally responsible for pumping. 

1. You should use high-pressure water jets

Even if you responsibly and regularly pump your septic system, septic tanks are prone to accumulating solids and debris up to a certain extent. This means that the accumulated solids are likely to clog pipes and debris and hence it is recommended that septic tanks are subjected to high-pressure water jetting every 3-4 years to ensure no accumulation of debris takes place. 

1. You should use bacteria additives

Septic systems use bacteria to decompose wastes and one should ensure that their septic systems use live organic bacteria to break down the presence of unnatural substances and decompose waste. Unnatural substances such as detergents can often harm the natural decomposition and cause clogging, which is why organic bacteria are required to break down such unnatural substances. Bacteria additives also help in keeping your septic tans free from any odor and help them to function efficiently.

1. You should install a filter

Filters essentially prevent solids from entering the drain field of your septic system – if solids do enter the drain field, the entire system can get clogged and hence not allow water to escape from it. Be sure to install a filter in your septic system if it doesn’t already have one, and replace existing filters every 2-3 years.

What are the signs of a septic system’s failure?

If your septic system or tank appears to give foul odors, it is a sure sign that something is wrong with your septic system. The most likely reason for foul odors in the system getting clogged with solids, which can only be prevent by yearly maintenance and regular checks.