A septic system, a combination of septic tanks and a drain field, is an underground container for managing wastewater like solid scum accumulation. Septic tank systems are a requirement, especially if you are considering renting or selling your house. This system can be a huge plus point feature; however, septic tanks can do more harm than good without a proper maintenance and inspection structure.
Replacement of septic tanks can cost you anywhere from $3000 to $7000, and professional maintenance and regular inspection can prevent such heavy and bulk spending on extensive repairs and replacements.
A typical tank can last for more than 30 years if paid close attention to and appropriately maintained. Eco-friendly systems perform excellently in filtering out solid and treating wastewater with little energy consumption and in a sustainable manner.
When Uncertain, Seek Professional Help
Hiring a professional septic tank service can provide installation, pumping, repair, and maintenance services by a licensed, trained, and insured team of experts who are prompt and reliable for impeccable service. They can offer refined services within budget and also adhere to timings diligently.
They also have access to professional tools and equipment that can provide you with top-notch service quality. Whenever in doubt, hiring professionals for repair concerns and inspection services is advisable, as they will not sugarcoat the issues and will help you solve them with transparency. Moreover, DIYs are nothing compared to the years of experience and rigorous training they have up their sleeve.
Consider The Status Of Septic Tank Bacteria
Always consider the health of the bacteria present in your septic tank. This bacteria is responsible for treating and breaking down solids from grey water, and any inefficiency or ineffectiveness in this regard is likely to backfire in the long run.
If the microbes are not up to their complete and optimal performance, they will be incapable of breaking down flushed materials. They will be shoved outdoors and burden the environment. As such, these microbes must be regularly checked for their efficiency and optimal performance to break materials down in a reasonably reliable constitution.
Ensuring a decent population growth level and regularly keeping the bacteria topped up is also quintessential. One essential tip to remember is always to discard environmentally processable materials which are natural and decomposable over time. Avoiding chemicals is also a great tip, which is covered later in the article.
Don’t Let Inorganic Chemicals Find A Place In Your Tank
Chemicals have a significant hand in deteriorating the health and performance capabilities of the bacteria, preventing solids from breaking down, and flushing clean water. That said, it is perfectly okay when the chemical waste is minimal, as it can be handled without heavy consequences to your tank’s functionality. However, when discarded in excessive amounts, it can block your systems and poison the environment and the animals surrounding it.
One major misconception is the dilution process potentially decreases the negative impact on the atmosphere. Diluting chemicals reduce concentration but do not affect the overall poisonous and harmful effects it can cause.
Most people find such forms of disposal a “quick fix” while essentially pouring untreated chemical wastes into nutrient-rich soils and drinkable water sources. It creates a hazardous environment for local animals when disposing of baby wipes, bleaches, plastics, motor oils, and paint. They block the pumps and destroy the bacteria. Prevent the inorganic chemicals for the tank’s longevity and eco-friendly maintenance.
Don’t Overwork Your Septic System
One of the worst practices an owner can do is leave the system. One important note is that these tanks must not be automated to work every five minutes. This will cause overworking of the system and can significantly affect its effectiveness. The key to achieving a healthy tank system is using water efficiently and scheduling routines.
A standard one pumps up to two times in a ten-year span. Always check the schedules with your installer or service provider, and seek professional help if unsure where to start. Another essential tip to prevent overworking is to prevent overfilling your tank with water. Treating your tank will stimulate the microbes and perform effectively in breaking waste, but over usage of water can deteriorate the performance.
Disconnect The Garbage Disposal System
On the topic of harmful practices, another bad idea that people have come up with is connecting their standard garbage disposal units to the septic tank hoping to treat solid chunks of waste. What they don’t know is that garbage disposal systems are responsible for breaking down food solids into liquified chunks.
However, these tanks are susceptible to even the most finely chopped chunks of water. It is essential to know that septic tanks treat wastewater and are prone to clogging when connected to a kitchen garbage disposal system. An alternative strategy would be to compost them or use them as an organic fertiliser for the gardens.
Prevent Excessive Usage Of Water
Reduce excessive water usage when you have a septic tank. Why?
Let’s first get into the environmental aspect of things. Increasing water usage means going against the principle of protecting the environment and using their resources judiciously. Running too much water regularly can bite you back in the long run, creating a heavy burden on your septic tank and overwhelming the bacteria with large amounts of wastewater left for treatment. Coming to the technical aspects of things, water drags down the bacteria’s efficiency and performance.
Regardless of the type of tank you are using, every tank is bound by limitations. When exceeded, it can essentially cause the waste to be flushed without being treated. Reduce water usage in your daily activities. Prevent running your washing machine multiple times. Showering once a day is more than enough. Switch off the taps when washing dishes or brushing. Minor changes to your daily water usage structure can significantly impact the tank and prove more economical.
Keep An Eye On The Wastes
When you are a septic tank owner, the three P rule must be engraved in your mind. This rule states that these units must only be met by natural wastes that come under pee, poo, or paper. Today’s generation is all about the rave of going green, considering the significant damage the planet has suffered due to the high standards of consumerism.
The best way to make your septic tank more eco-friendly is to dispose of the right items in the right places. Keep an eye on what you are flushing down, and avoid sanitary pads, baby wipes, diapers, and anything non-biodegradable. It is best to research what to dispose of and where to do it.
Conclusion
Caring for the environment starts from your waste disposal mechanisms and, most essentially, the septic tank system underground. While it can be daunting and overwhelming to care for your task’s performance and consequently for the environment, taking small steps and diversifying your habits, little by little, can help you make a positive and influential impact to overturn global warming concerns and proper waste disposal.
On the grounds of environmental hygiene, the above tips can help maintain your septic tank in an eco-friendly and ethical fashion. Such practices can help increase the waste digesting capacity and reduce carbon footprint.