There are many advantages to being on a septic system, but if you just recently moved into a home that has a septic system, you should know that there are some things about septic systems that are quite different from being on city or municipal water management systems. If you are used to conveniences like using a garbage disposal, powdered detergents, doing all of your laundry on the same day, or being part of a family that takes long showers, converting to a septic system can deliver a bit of a shock. Also, if your home habits have resulted in a problem developing with your septic system, Dan’s Plumbing & Septic is here to help.

How Does A Septic System Work

Septic systems work by separating waste produced in the home into three different layers. Those layers are:

● Solids, which settle on the bottom of the septic tank because of their greater weight and are decomposed by microorganisms. Using soaps and detergents that are labeled as ‘antiseptic’ upsets the chemical balance in the septic system and can prevent the microorganisms from doing their job of breaking down solid waste.
● Effluents, which form the middle layer of the waste produced in the home. Effluents are flushed out of your septic tank through perforations in the underground piping, ending up in the drainage field.
● Scum, the oily, greasy layer that floats on the top layer of your septic tank. Household greases and oils are extremely harmful to the aerobic balance of your septic system, which is why it is so important to never use your septic system to dispose of garbage.

How to Avoid Septic Syatem Problems

To avoid septic system problems or failure, proper care must be taken of your system. We recommend the following:

1. If you have a garbage disposal, consider disconnecting it or have it removed.
2. Use only liquid detergents. Powdered detergents reform into solids once they reach your septic system, and that can lead to clogs, overflows, and failure of your system.
3. Clean the lint filter on your clothes dryer after every load to avoid lint getting into your septic system and clogging it.
4. Distribute your clothes washing throughout the week to avoid overtaxing your septic system. Water conservation in general is highly recommended (for all people, but especially for people who live in homes that have septic systems).
5. Do not use antibacterial soaps. They can upset the chemical balance of your septic tank.

If you have questions, call Dan’s Plumbing & Septic at (763) 434-6814 to schedule a septic system assessment.