An essential component of your septic system is the drain field. You’ll find a drain field in the area beneath the ground of your property. This setup includes pipes that help filter wastewater from your septic tank into the surrounding soil. From there, naturally occurring bacteria that live in the soil begin to break down the wastewater to filter and discard it.

Problems with the drain field are the primary cause of septic system failures. This is why it’s so imperative to keep your drain field working properly and efficiently. Hiring a professional septic services company like Quality Septic Inc. is a great way to ensure you don’t have any issues. There are several things to watch out for that may point to a malfunctioning drain field. Some of these include:

• Standing water or a really wet area surrounding the drain field
• Smelling a foul odor near your septic system
• Slow draining sinks and toilets in your home
• Green, spongy grass over the drain field

When it comes to maintaining your drain field, you should keep these three things in mind.

1. Protect the structure of your drain field

For your drain field to work correctly, it needs lots of oxygen. Because of this, you should take the following into consideration:

a. Avoid placing trees, shrubs, or other plants on top of or too close to your drain field. The root systems might obstruct or harm the pipes in your drain field.

b. Do not allow heavy vehicles and/or machinery to drive over or park on top of your drain field. This may cause wastewater to back up and compact the soil. This may also lead to ground collapse and crushed piping.

c. Do not pave over your septic tank or drain field with concrete, decking, pavers, or any other dense, heavy materials.

2. Pump your septic tank frequently

A healthy drain field requires routine septic tank pumping. Without pumping, solids that build up in your septic tank may overflow into your drain field, which could clog pipes and harm the environment. Every three to five years, or more regularly if you have a big household or use a lot of water, you should have your septic tank pumped. Pair up with a trusted professional to assist you in preserving a strong, effective septic system for many years to come.

3. Avoid overloading your system

Monitoring your water usage is one of the most critical things you can do to protect your drain field. It’s important to note that your drain field may become overloaded by having too much water run through it at once. This can also cause backups and damage to your drain field. Try to be watchful of how much water you use each day and try to preserve it wherever you can. A few examples include fixing leaking faucets, installing low-flow toilets and showerheads, and only using your dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.

We hope that by following the above recommendations, you can take the necessary steps to safeguard your drain field. In the end, you will also save money on costly repairs or replacements. If you have any questions or concerns with your drain field or would like to set up an appointment for service, please contact Quality Septic Inc. by calling (813) 576-2546.

Call Your Florida Septic Experts Today

Since 1994, Quality Septic, Inc. has provided fast, friendly, reliable, and affordable septic system inspections, repairs, and maintenance in Hillsborough County. Arrange an appointment or get your questions answered by calling us at (813) 576-2546 or get in touch with our online contact form.