Septic Maintenance

In addition to professional services, there are a few steps you can take to keep your septic system healthy. 

• Routine septic pumping: Septic systems should be pumped at least once every 2-5 years. Doing so will prevent an overly full tank, which could otherwise lead to major backups or overflows. 
• Using water efficiently: Reducing your daily volume of wastewater will keep your septic flowing smoothly while reducing utility bills. High-efficiency toilets, showerheads, and appliances are all great ways to eliminate water wastage, or you can check out more tips on the EPA’s WaterSense Program page.
• Protecting your drain field: Placing heavy objects on your drain field, driving over your septic tank, or planting trees nearby are all recipes for damage. Keeping your drain field safe and open will prevent issues from developing.

One of the most common causes of septic failure is improper waste disposal. Flushing or draining improper materials could lead to a serious backup, which is why it’s important to keep these items out of your system:

• Cooking grease or oil
• Baby wipes or wet wipes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Dental floss
• Coffee grounds
• Cat litter
• Paper towels
• Household chemicals
• Other non-flushable materials

A failing septic system can be very damaging to your property and hazardous to you, your neighbors, and the environment. If sewage backs up and overflows across the surface of your drain field, you may be forced to abandon the area and install an entirely new septic system. 

Not only are septic failures dangerous and difficult to clean, but they can become very expensive. Regular septic tank maintenance and inspections can prevent these problems and keep your septic system working seamlessly for years to come.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), property owners should get professional septic tank maintenance at least once every three years. That said, the ideal maintenance routine for your septic tank depends on a few factors such as household size, daily volume, and system type.

If you aren’t sure how frequently your septic should be looked at, one of our experts would be happy to help you – or you can use these guidelines to determine how often your septic system needs maintenance:

• Gravity-fed systems: Gravity-fed systems are fairly simple and only need basic maintenance once every couple of years.
• Complex systems: Septics that are a little more complicated, like sand filter systems or Alternative Treatment Technologies, may need maintenance as frequently as every 6 months. An expert can inspect your system and advise you on the best maintenance routine.

At Goodman Septic Services, it’s our goal to ensure your septic is in excellent condition. That’s why we offer comprehensive maintenance services that address every aspect of your system. In each septic maintenance appointment, our experts will:

• Perform a thorough visual inspection of your system
• Check the tank for signs of leaks or damage
• Examine filters, pumps, and other parts for issues
• Clean or pump your tank if necessary

Depending on factors such as system size and property layout, professional maintenance services typically take a few hours to complete.