Septic System Do’s and Don’ts

4 Aces Plumbing is highly trusted for quality workmanship whether it be commercial or residential plumbing. We strive to give you, the customer, the utmost value while keeping your costs in mind. Our dedicated team is here for you.

A septic tank is a key component of the septic system, a small-scale sewage treatment system common in areas with no connection to main sewage pipes provided by local governments or private corporations.  Periodic preventive maintenance is required to remove the irreducible solids that settle and gradually fill the tank, reducing its efficiency.

  • DO learn the location of your septic tank and drain field. Keep a sketch of it handy with your maintenance record for service visits.
  • DO have your septic system inspected annually.
  • DO call a professional whenever you experience problems with your system, or if there are any signs of system failure.
  • DO keep a detailed record of repairs, pumping, inspections, permits issued, and other maintenance activities.
  • DO conserve water to avoid overloading the system. Be sure to repair any leaky faucets or toilets.
  • DO divert other sources of water, like roof drains, house footing drains, and sump pumps, away from the septic system. Excessive water keeps the soil in the drain field from naturally cleansing the wastewater.

What shouldn’t you do:

  • DON’T allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system.
  • DON’T plant anything over or near the drain field except grass. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage the drain lines.
  • DON’T dig in your drain field of build anything over it, and don’t cover the drain field with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. The area over the drain field should have only a grass cover. The grass will not only prevent erosion, but will help remove excess water.
  • DON’T make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required health department permit. Use professional licensed septic contractors when needed.
  • DON’T use your toilet as a trash can or poison your septic system and the groundwater by pouring harmful chemicals and cleaners down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater.
  • DON’T use a garbage disposal without checking with your local regulatory agency to make sure that your septic system can accommodate this additional waste.
  • DON’T allow backwash from home water softeners to enter the septic system.

4-Aces can help you through the entire process of a new system design and installation from start to finish.  Services also include:

Make an appointment to talk to our experts, online or call (513) 422-2772.