We’ve all seen what happens when your water hose gets stopped up with debris. You lose your water flow don’t you? The same thing happens when grease is allowed to accumulate in your septic system. The only difference is that if grease is able to accumulate in your system, clogging  may require expensive maintenance or even replacement of the leach field. Grease is the number one killer of a septic system.

Septic systems are designed to break down bacteria and will not break down oils from bacon, cooking oils, or fats. It’s always best to eliminate or drastically reduce any oils or fats of this type in your septic system.

To best maintain your system, remember that the only thing that should go into your septic system is waste. Flushing items that do not belong down the toilet such as harsh chemicals, cleaning products, cigarettes, and feminine products that are not biodegradable will all have a negative impact on your system.

We recommend that your system be pumped every three to five years. This is based on the number of people living in the residence as well as the size of the system. Pumping the system does not eliminate grease, however, regular system maintenance and pumping will help reduce early failure and extend the life of your system.

If you’re unsure as to the integrity of your system, your best option is to have the system inspected. Building Sciences 16:3 can pull your installation permit/layout, locate the tank, and dig up both sides of the septic tank in order to determine how it is functioning at this time. This will allow you to get clear direction on how to proceed with maintenance, regular pumping, and future use.