Your septic system is one of those things you don’t think about—until you don’t have a choice. And when you have to, it’s usually because something has gone seriously wrong. The good news? Many of the common issues septic systems face are entirely preventable.
If you want to keep your system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, stop doing these eight things immediately:
1. Using the Wrong Toilet Paper (or Flushable Wipes)
“Flushable” doesn’t mean septic-safe and not all septic-safe is equal!
Those so-called flushable wipes can wreak havoc on your system. Even the wrong kind of toilet paper can cause clogs and slow down the breakdown process in your tank.
Stick with a toilet paper brand that breaks down well, and for the love of your system, keep the wipes out of the toilet!
2. Dumping Grease Down Your Drain
Grease might slide down your sink easily when it’s hot, but once it cools in your pipes or tank, it solidifies into a sticky, nasty mess. This can clog your lines, overload your tank, and lead to backups.
Always dispose of grease in a container and throw it in the trash. Your septic system will thank you.
3. Using a Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals grind up food, but that doesn’t mean your septic tank can handle it. Food waste doesn’t break down as quickly as you think, and the extra solids can overwhelm your system.
If you’re using a garbage disposal, you’re essentially speeding up the need for pumping. Better yet? Compost your scraps instead..
4. Using Powdered Detergent
Powdered detergent might seem like a cost-effective option, but it’s terrible for your septic system. The fillers in powdered products can clump together and create blockages in your pipes or tank and shorten the time between pumping.
Stick to liquid detergents!
5. Not Pumping Your Tank
“I don’t remember the last time we pumped our tank” is not something you want to say!
Neglecting to pump your tank regularly is a recipe for disaster. Solids build up over time, reducing the tank’s capacity and leading to overflows. Schedule a pump every 3-5 years—or more often if you have a smaller tank or a larger household.
6. Using Too Much Water
Your septic system can only handle so much water at once. Running multiple appliances at the same time (like your washer, dishwasher, and shower) can overwhelm the system and lead to system failure.
Spread out water usage throughout the day, and consider installing water-efficient fixtures to reduce the strain.
7. Planting Trees Near Your Drainfield
Tree roots will seek out moisture wherever they can find it—like your drainfield. Once they invade, they can clog and damage the system.
Keep trees and shrubs far away from your drainfield to avoid expensive repairs!
8. Using Septic Additives
The commercials make it sound like additives are a miracle solution for your tank. Spoiler alert: they’re not!
Every independent study has found no benefit in using an additive. Your septic tank doesn’t need a magic potion—it just needs regular maintenance.
You can learn more about your septic system by purchasing Living With an Onsite Wastewater System on Amazon.
Your septic system is a hardworking part of your home, and it deserves a little TLC. Avoid these eight mistakes, and you’ll save yourself a lot of stress (and money) down the road.
Got questions about your septic system? Check out Dawn’s book on Amazon or give Cyclone Septics a call!
This post is based one that originally appeared on Cyclone Septics
