If you ever worry about the need to get a new septic tank in Chappaqua or Pleasantville, NY, we have some industry insights to help you minimize the risk of needing to replace a septic tank. Ideally, you can increase the longevity of your current septic system with the following steps, especially if you have recently gone through the septic tank installation process.
Watch What You Flush
The number one thing you can do is prevent unnecessary clogs that will back your system up long before it’s time. Fats, oils, products that don’t break down, and hair can all combine into one nasty boulder of sticking power. Septic tank owners need to be careful to not flush litter, hair, oils, diapers, feminine products, or cigarette butts down the toilet. If you suspect a clog is forming, you do not have to wait until it’s too late. Calling your septic tank company can ensure that a potential problem gets resolved.
Know Your Tank Location and Keep the Area Clear
If you aren’t aware of the exact location of your septic tank, we will find it. We’ll locate the tank on your property and get to the lid to ensure the top is securely fastened. For an older tank, dirt, rainwater, rocks, snow, and even animals can get inside your tank and take up extra space that would eventually be used for waste. While we’re there, we can take a peek and see how far you are away from needing a pump-out.
Be Mindful
You could mark the area of your property where the tank is if it is not clear. You do not want to put unnecessary strain or pressure on the tank by driving over it with heavy equipment or vehicles. Make sure any plows and garden tractors stay well away from the area, and be sure any children won’t try to mess around with the tank lid if it’s exposed.
Only Flush When Necessary
We’re not recommending letting waste sit in your toilets, although some people take being water conscious to the extreme. We’re saying if you use toilet paper to clean something up, try to throw it in the trash rather than flushing it. All that extra water and toilet paper can fill your tank far sooner than it otherwise would.
Some people don’t realize their showers, bathtubs, and sinks all head to the septic tank as well. To minimize the need for service, you may want to think twice about running the sink water for 20 minutes while you’re brushing your teeth or doing your dishes, and make sure the bathtub isn’t running for a needless amount of time when you fill it for the kids tonight.
Address Plumbing Repairs
It might not seem like a big deal to you if the toilet just keeps on running at a trickle, but your septic tank and the plumbing leading to it definitely care. Even at a trickle, constant water flow can greatly increase the rate at which your tank fills. If your toilet leaks or you suspect a crack in the septic pipes leading to the tank, get them fixed as soon as possible to minimize the needless water and debris filling your tank.
Have the Septic Tank Inspected
At any time, a professional can come and inspect your septic tank. This could be an annual inspection, which can be more cost-effective than risking an emergency situation. Our professionals can help look for vulnerabilities or weak points in the structures of the tanks and provide you with some tips and tricks on how to take care of your specific model and situation.
