If you just purchased a new home and there is a septic tank on the property, you need to learn how you can keep it in good condition. This is especially true if you have never owned a septic tank before. Below is some information that you should find helpful so you can prevent problems with your tank.

Pump and Clean the Tank

One of the most important things you can do is to keep the tank pumped every few years. Solid materials coming from your system settle at the bottom of the tank, which forms a sludge layer. Lightweight materials, such as grease, float to the surface of the tank, which is known as the scum layer. Over time, the sludge builds up enough to cause problems with your tank. When a septic tank company pumps the system, it empties the tank completely. The septic tank company will also clean the walls and floor of the tank when they finish pumping it.

There are signs the septic tank needs to be pumped. You will see pools of water over the drain field. This means the tank is overflowing because it is too full. You will also notice an odor around the drain field as the water you see includes the sludge inside the tank.

If your lawn looks healthier around the drain field when compared to the rest of the grass on your lawn this is a sign the septic tank is leaking. The grass is healthier because it is being constantly provided with water. You may also have more clogged drains inside your home.

Watch What Goes into the Drains and Toilet

Instead of putting solid wastes into your drains and toilet, such as tampons, dental floss, and paper towels, throw these things away in the trash instead. The more solid materials you put down the drains and toilet the quicker the tank fills up, which results needing the tank pumped more often. This could reduce the life of your septic tank and result in you spending more money.

If you have small children, they can throw anything down drains and toilets, such as small toys. For this reason, keep a drain cover over drains at all times and purchase a toilet lid lock so your child cannot lift the toilet lid.

Contact a septic tank company to learn of other ways you can keep your tank in good condition. They can also tell you how often you should have your septic tank pumped and cleaned.

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