How Septic Maintenance Saves Money

1. Protects the Drain Field

All household waste travels to the tank, where solids settle to the bottom, fats, oils, and grease float to the top, and liquid waste filters through to the drainfield. If a septic tank isn’t properly maintained, solid waste can back up and enter the drainfield. The field can then become clogged, requiring a new one to be dug, costing thousands of dollars.

2. Prevents Backflow

Routine septic maintenance involves pumping the tank to prevent an overflow. If the tank is too full, it can backflow into the home, resulting in costly damage not only to the system but also to the home's plumbing. Generally, a septic tank should be pumped every three to five years. Your home's specific pumping schedule will depend on your system's size, how many people are in your household, and your average water usage.

3. Catches Small Repairs

A septic professional will examine the system during an inspection, including the tank, distribution box, and drain field. If any component needs to be repaired or replaced, or if the system must be drained, it will be taken care of during the inspection. Having an inspection every two to five years can help catch minor damages before they become significant, requiring costly repairs.