Preventive Measures
At Reasy’s Septic Service LLC, we take pride in offering expert advice based on over 60 years of experience to help
prevent septic tank issues. To ensure your septic system works efficiently, here are some key maintenance tips
for homeowners.
Avoid flushing feminine products or baby wipes.
While labeled “flushable” these items do not
biodegrade and are the leading cause of septic tank backups and, in severe cases, leach bed failures. With
shifting regulations, more sand mound systems are being installed in place of conventional leach beds. If
not properly maintained, your septic system can lead to costly issues with sand mound installations now
averaging around $40,000.
Avoid overusing household cleaners.
cleaners. Septic tanks rely on bacteria to breakdown solids. Overuse of
laundry detergents or cleaners can kill these beneficial bacteria, slowing or stopping the breakdown
process. As a result, excessive solids build up in the tank, reducing the space for water. Over time, this can
force solids into the leach bed, which is designed to filter liquid waste back into the ground. When solids
accumulate in the leach bed, it can lead to clogged pipes and system failures.
Ensure proper tank ventilation.
Every septic tank should have a surface lid or a 4” cleanout pipe
protruding from the ground where your drainpipe from the house enters the tank. This serves two key
purposes; 1. It allows the tank to properly ‘breath” by allowing air (and bacteria) to flow into the system.
2. It provides easy access for addressing clogs where the drainpipe enters the tank which can be a highly
problematic area.
Ensure easy access to tank lids.
Installing a riser system with surface lids offers several benefits. In the
event of an unexpected backup, the tank can be quickly opened to determine if the issue is within your
tank. During winter, frozen ground can make accessing buried lids difficult, and we no longer dig up lids
for customers, which may delay resolving backup issues. With surface lids, customers can simply schedule
an appointment and we’ll handle the rest.
Ideal Septic Setup
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Regularly clean filters.
For homeowners with sand mound systems, open the middle lid on your system
and locate the filter where the pipe exits the septic tank leading to pump tank. Pull the filter out and spray
it clean with a garden hose. Recommended to be clean every 1 to 2 years.
Regular septic pumping.
The frequency of pumping depends on two key factors: the size of your septic
tank and the number of people living in your household. We recommend having your tank pumped every
3-6 years to maintain a properly functioning system. Most townships regulate septic pumping frequency,
for those areas not affected, please refer to the chart below for guidance.