3 Things To Know About Septic Systems
If you’ve never lived in a home with a septic system, the prospect of buying one might seem scary. With a little bit of knowledge, though, you can confidently purchase that home and know that you’ll be able to keep your septic tank in good condition. Here are three things you need to know about septic systems.
- Maintenance is Required
Inspecting your septic tank and drain field is an important part of keeping it functioning properly. Hire a professional inspector to check out your septic tank Orlando FL every 3 years. In between inspections, you can also pay attention to the turf above your drain field. It should not be muddy or overly wet if you haven’t had recent rain. If you notice that it is, call in a professional right away. Your inspector will recommend a pumping frequency for your system. Most septic systems require pumping every 3 to 5 years.
- Keep Shrubs and Trees Away
It’s great to plant lawn or prairie grass over your septic system, but keep larger plants at a distance. The roots from some shrubs and trees can cause severe damage to the pipes in your system. Bear in mind that tree roots can travel quite a distance from the trunk of the tree, so don’t underestimate the distance required for safety.
- Watch What You Flush
The only items that should be put into the toilet and flushed are bodily waste and toilet paper. Any other items, including dental floss, wet wipes, sanitary items, and diapers can affect the balance of bacteria in your system or clog the pipes. Even products that say they are flushable and biodegradable should not be flushed into a septic system.
Don’t worry about buying a home that seems perfect except for the fact that it has a septic system. These systems serve many homes quite well and are not difficult to maintain.
