3 Tips to Prepare Your Septic System for Rain

1. Keep Up With Pumping and Other Maintenance

System drainage issues are more likely to occur if the septic tank is already full. Keeping up with septic tank pumping as recommended by your service provider prevents problems. Most households should have the tank pumped every three years, though larger families or homes with a kitchen garbage disposal should be pumped annually. Maintenance inspections during pumping services can also detect and address leaks and other issues.

2. Improve Property Drainage

Your drain field should be at a higher elevation than the surrounding area. This ensures that excess water flows away from the drain field rather than accumulating in the area above the septic tank. Keep off the drain field (especially with heavy vehicles) to avoid compacting the soil, and keep the grass short to prevent water stagnation.

3. Reduce Water Use When Possible

After the drain field becomes saturated with water by a storm, try to reduce your own household water use. This ensures that you won’t overwhelm the septic system with additional water flow from your home. Avoid water-intensive chores such as doing laundry or running the dishwasher until the field dries out. Upgrading to high-efficiency water fixtures and appliances can also help reduce water use.