Septic Tank

Check the inlet and the outlet of the septic tank for any blockage due to solid wastes, scum and so on. Remove the block and check for easy flow. Check the distribution box located between the septic tank and the percolators. Remove blocks, if any.

Check the area around the percolators. See whether it is moist, swampy and stinky. It means that the percolation is not proper. In other works the soil is not absorbing the drain water at the rate of discharge. It could be either because you usage of water has increased of late due to more guests or the soil has become saturated due to moisture from other sources such as rainfall (more than normal) etc. Immediately enlist an expert, the problem requires instant care.

If the septic tank has frozen due to bad weather seek the help of an expert immediately. If an expert and the equipment needed are hard to find, use the septic tank as a storage tank till such time the tank haws by itself. Judicious use of water will help you hold on for some time. To avoid freezing of the septic tank in the future, winterize before the next winter.

Preventive Measures:
Respect your Septic tank. It is designed for the disposal of organic wastes only. Avoid dumping inorganic and non bio-degradable wastes. They are sure to block the normal functioning of the septic tank and spoil it beyond redemption.

Use filters over the drains in your toilet and kitchen to trap hair and solid objects.
Winterize the septic tank to prevent it from freezing in winter. Do the following:
Insulate the Septic tank, distribution tank, percolators and all out door lines by spreading a layer of hay, grass, dry leaves etc.

During winter, resort to more-than-normal usage of water. Warmer the water, the better.
Empty the tank, if you are planning for a long outing.
Get expert help. Winterization is location, weather specific. A small investment here will save you from all hardships during the winter.

Here are some helpful do-it-yourself tips for basic septic tank maintenance at home:

    * Limit the water entering your septic tank, and give your system time to rest after heavy use. Do not use excessive amounts of water that could overuse your tank. Also, periodically check for water leaks throughout the house that could effect the tank (faucet, toilet).

    * Inspect your tank annually. Record the level of sludge build-up and inspect the baffles for scum. Pump your septic tank when necessary according to your tank inspection manual.

    * DO NOT discard grease into your sink drain. Grease can clog the septic tank or the soils surrounding the absorption field. Also, use of liquid fabric softeners can contribute to excessive scum in the septic tank.

    * Perform routine maintenance checks on any lift/distribution pumps associated with your system. Systems that utilize pumps will quickly back-up if a pump fails.

    * Avoid using potent cleaning agents or chemicals in your sink because they can accelerate the process of tank erosion and also kill bacteria that help break down harmful scum build-up in your tank.

    * Use toilet paper that decomposes easily. Purchase brands labeled “safe” for septic systems.

    * Equip your dryer unit with a lint guard to avoid lint build-up in your tank.