3 Environmental Consequences of Septic System Neglect

You might be here because you own a septic tank and want to get better at taking care of it. Luckily, we have everything you probably didn’t know about your septic tank in this blog. Stick around, and the health of your waste management system will improve.

Chemicals and Drain Cleaners DO NOT Go in the Septic Tank

Any chemical or drain cleaner that you flush down the drain harms the septic system more than it helps it. The tank already has an ecosystem of healthy bacteria that keeps the tank clean and in working condition. Dumping these harsh chemicals down the drain can eliminate the healthy bacteria and ruin the overall condition of your tank.

Effects on Groundwater

Chemicals that find their way into the tank can contaminate the groundwater. Septic tanks filter through the solid waste and release the liquid from a drain near the ground. Anything that goes into the tank will eventually leech out into the soil, possibly contaminating it, leading to the killing of plants and wildlife around the septic system.

You Tank Is More Than Just a Toilet

Your toilet is not the only thing that drains into the septic system. Every sink, shower, and drain in your house leads to the septic tank. Owning this type of waste management means that system is responsible for the entirety of the wastewater in your home.

The Drain Can Become Over-Saturated

Excessive rain or water use can lead to the drain field clogging your tank. If the drain is clogged, there is no way for your tank to treat the wastewater, and it will eventually contaminate the ground. You can avoid clogging the drain by separating shower times to not overflood the drain or staggering your laundry loads. Anytime you do maintenance on your tank, don’t forget to check the drain field to ensure the tank is working correctly.

Extend the Tank Life With Proper Maintenance

An average household only needs to use septic pumping services every 3-5 years. However, in some instances, you may need assistance before then. Properly maintaining your tank will prevent any possible damage, and it will improve the overall health of your septic system, making it last that much longer.

Now that you have all the information you probably didn’t know about your septic tank, you can start taking better care of it. Always be wary of what you put down your drains and make a habit of checking on the septic system from time to time to ensure it is in good health. This type of waste management is exceptionally great for the environment and relatively easy to maintain once you know the rules and regulations.