Another important task on the spring cleaning schedule is the care and maintenance for septic tanks. A septic tank should be pumped out every two to three years. As a licensed septic waste transporter in the province of British Columbia McRae’s Septic can complete your Septic Tank Inspection, then Clean and Pump Out the Tank if necessary. Give us a call today or request a quote online.

Tips to Maintain Your Septic System

1.  Regularly pump-out the septic tank when needed.
2.  Keep a record of pumping, inspections, maintenance and repairs.
3. Map out septic tank and other system components. This is useful for accessing the system and will prevent damaging system components when doing home maintenance or yard work.
4. Don’t park or drive heavy vehicles or equipment over the septic system.
5. Don’t build structures, such as decks, patios or swimming pools, that would cover the absorption field or limit access to the septic tank.
6. Don’t flush or use strong chemicals and bacteria-destroying products, such as drain cleaners, solvents, paint, paint thinners, floor cleaners, sink cleaners, motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides, and photo chemicals. These may disrupt septic tank or absorption system operation.
7. Don’t flush materials that don’t easily degrade, such as paper towels, cotton swabs, personal hygiene products, medications, disposable diapers, coffee grounds, cat litter, cooking fats/oils, facial tissues, dental floss, plastics, grease or bones.
8. Avoid garbage disposals or grinders because these substantially increase the accumulation of solids in the septic tank and in the absorption field.
9. Direct drainage away from the septic system from roof, cellar/footing (sump pump) and surface water run-off.
10. Plant grass and other shallow-rooted plants over the absorption field. Keep trees and long-rooted plants and shrubs away from the immediate area of the absorption area. Roots can grow into the pipes and clog the system.
11. Conserve water. Check for defective toilet tank valves, repair leaky fixtures, and install appliances and fixtures that use less water and avoid wasteful practices.
12. Regularly inspect and maintain any effluent pumps and alarms that may be part of your septic system.