subject: Getting The Best Performance From Your Septic Tank [print this page] A common waste treatment system still in use by many UK households today is that of the septic tank. Specifically, septic tanks help solid waste settle to the bottom of the tank and lighter wastes rise to the top, so the absorption field isn't clogged and remains effective. However, one thing about septic tanks is that they don't treat the bacteria that is found in waste, and in the event of a septic tank malfunction, you have a lot more to worry about than a soggy backyard, but septic tank bacteria, as well. Not only can septic tank problems to this degree cause horrible odors, tense relations with your neighbors and a pain in the neck in terms of cleanup, but it's also a safety hazard - the harmful bacteria that is released has the potential to make pets and animals very sick. It's estimated that a good percentage of septic tanks fail each year due to drain field clogging and damage. Here are some tips on how to properly maintain your septic tank, therefore battling any harmful bacteria in your garden space before it becomes a big problem:
No Hand Soaps or Chemicals
Believe it or not, there is beneficial bacteria in human waste that helps it properly decompose. However, it's been noted that hand soaps, anti-bacterial cleaning devices, bleach and other cleaning chemicals can have a negative impact on septic tanks because they contribute to the elimination of the helpful bacteria in human waste. If you can, avoid such chemicals get into the waste treatment system of your home, for you could be in a pile of crap (pun intended) later on because of it.
Pump It
An essential task that must be completed with any septic tank is pumping out the waste, which should be done every two to three years. This number, however, varies on how many people live in your household and how large of a tank you have. But failure to pump this out regularly can be detrimental.
Know Your Surroundings
A lot of people don't think that tree roots, swimming pool positioning and rain runoff can affect your septic tank system. Those people are wrong. Trees should be planted far away from septic tank systems, so their roots don't grow and disrupt any of its mechanics. Swimming pools are another afterthought that could wind up damaging the system more than you think. Know your garden's lanscape, as well as how rain drains off around your garden, to prevent a clogged drain or system damage.
