septic tank pumping in Sonoma, CA

What Do You Need To Know About Septic Tanks?

It can be stressful to move to a new house. If you are moving into a home that has a septic system and you’ve never had one before, it’s important to know some things about the operation so you don’t make any big mistakes. For example, you will need septic tank pumping service in Napa every few years, even if you treat the system well. Here are some other things to know.

Strain Things In The Sink

Even if the kitchen sink has a garbage disposal, you don’t want to use it very often if you can help it. Use that item sparingly as it can increase the amount of solids in your tank, which is not what you want. Put a strainer in the sink when you are trying to wash dishes or cut things up and that will help you catch things you don’t want to go down so you can throw them away instead of wash them down the drain.

Know Where The Tank Is Located

You are going to know where your septic tank is and where the drain field is as well so you can tell the technicians that might have to come to help you with issues. You will also want to keep the drain field clear or trees, bushes, and other things or that could damage how the system operates. Don’t drive heavy equipment over that area and have the tank pumped out through the central manhole not the smaller holds. Keep copies of receipts that show when the tank was pumped out.

Avoid Harmful Products

There are lots of things that can cause a lot of damage to the septic tank and the entire system. Don’t put paint or other like solvents down the drains. Don’t put cooking grease or oil down there either. Anything anti-bacterial can also harm the bacteria makeup within the tank. You don’t want to flush anything but toilet paper and waste, either. These harmful products can cost you a lot in the long run.

Watch For Pumping Signs

Know the signs that you need to have your tank pumped out, so you know what to watch for. IF the drains are starting to run slow or you notice a foul smell or a lot of water in the drain field, the tank might be filling up fast. Knowing the signs can help you avoid a major disaster, like a backup into your house.

septic tank pumping in Sonoma, CA

Have Pumping More Often Than 5 Years

If you haven’t had the tank pumped out in 5 years, that’s not a good thing. Never go more than 5 years without a tank pumping. It needs to be emptied out regularly to restore the balance of good bacteria and take away the sludge.

If you want more information on septic tank system, or if you want to have your system checked out once you move in, the professionals at American Sanitation Inc are here to help.