Maintenance Guide: Septic Tank Do's and Don'ts

Did you know that more than 20% of U.S. homes use septic systems to treat wastewater? A few different types of systems are used, and they can positively impact the environment and public health when maintained correctly. But if they're not, major problems can crop up quickly. The importance of a well-maintained system can't be overstated when dealing with wastewater. 

We’ve put together a guide to the dos and don’ts of septic system maintenance. Read on to keep yours running properly and avoid unexpected repair or replacement costs.

How Does a Septic System Work?

A septic system is an alternative for homes not connected to a municipality's sewer. The system uses a drain line to move wastewater from your home's plumbing into a drainage field. The wastewater is slowly absorbed by the surrounding soil, where it's naturally filtered before returning to the local ecosystem. While there are many types of septic systems, they all contain some type of tank where helpful bacteria break down solids before waste continues through the system.

What Are the Three Types of Septic Systems?

The three main types are septic tank, conventional system, and chamber system. Learn more about all the types of septic systems on the EPA's website: Types of Septic Systems.

There's more to a septic system than the tank. Let's go over the other components that make up this wastewater disposal setup:

• Drain line: This line connects all the plumbing in your home to the septic system. This drain line can sometimes become clogged and prevent your appliances from draining properly.
• Septic tank: The septic tank separates and processes solid waste, filters the liquid, and releases it into the drain field.
• Distribution box: Effluent that leaves your septic tank comes to the distribution box and is evenly distributed to the drain field. It's important to ensure openings in this box are level and wastewater flows evenly through each one.
• Drain field: The drainage or leach field is where processed wastewater is filtered back into the local water table. The water from your septic system is further filtered through gravel, sand, soil, or other natural substrate layers before it returns to the local ecosystem.

Septic System Maintenance

Your septic system is one of the most important in your home. It's more than inconvenient if it's not functioning properly – it can be a health and safety hazard. You can conduct standard maintenance to ensure your system works its best.

Here are some things to keep in mind for maintaining your septic system:

• Know its location: Keep this information (and a diagram if available) handy in case septic system maintenance is needed.
• Pump regularly: Have your septic tank pumped by a licensed contractor every three to five years — or as often as your system requires.
• Easy access: Keep your septic tank cover accessible for inspections and pumping. It may be necessary to install risers and to check periodically that debris hasn’t covered access points.
• Check for cracks and leaks: Regularly look for evidence of a leaking tank. This includes noticing if thick foliage is growing in areas near the tank, which often happens due to the excess nutrients. You can also hire an inspector to complete a yearly check for signs of failure. 
• Drain field upkeep: Avoid keeping automobiles, heavy equipment, or other weighty items on your drain field. It helps to clearly mark the drain field to ensure this doesn't happen. 
• Know your water usage: Wondering, "How do I know what septic tank I need?" Measure your household's wastewater output and multiply that number by 1.5x to determine the size of the septic tank you need. It's important not to overload your septic tank, so purchase a larger tank if you anticipate having more wastewater.
• Know who to call: Protect your septic system with First American Home Warranty coverage. What is a home warranty? Learn more about our plans on our blog, or contact us at 888.875.0533.

Related: Learn about budget protection offered by home warranty coverage. 

Common Septic System Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes, knowing what not to do with a septic system is as important as maintenance and servicing. Here are a few important don'ts for septic maintenance: 

• Never enter your septic tank. These tanks can be full of toxic gases and pose a deadly risk. Use extreme caution even when inspecting or looking into your tank.
• Don't drive or park over any part of the system, including the drain field. 
• Avoid digging in or planting anything over the drain field other than grass, and don't cover it with hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. (However, it's a good idea to have grass over the field to help prevent erosion and help remove excess water.)
• Avoid septic tank additives — typically, they are unhelpful, and some can damage your system.
• Never flush chemicals, medications, or anything other than toilet paper down your toilet — this can destroy the tank's bacteria system and cause the system to stop processing wastewater.
• Don't use garbage disposals in homes with septic tanks unless you've checked with your local regulatory agency.
• Don't allow backwash from a household water softener to enter the septic system.

Safety note: NEVER allow your septic system to be repaired or worked on without a required health department permit. Always use professional onsite contractors.

Extra Protection for Septic Systems

While your homeowners insurance usually covers your septic system in case of an accident or natural disaster, you may wonder, do home warranties cover well and septic systems? They do! A home warranty from First American can protect your system and your budget from damage due to normal wear and tear. Learn more about septic system warranty coverage and get a free quote today to protect your system.

FAQs About Septic Systems

How often should I get my septic system inspected? 

You should have your tank inspected by a professional every year to ensure it’s safe and functional. 

How do I know if my septic system is failing? 

Signs of a failing septic system include sewage or water backing up into your home, appliances draining slowly, gurgling sounds, standing water in the drain field, bad odors, and more. A regular professional inspection will help you identify any signs of failure that aren't obvious from a basic visual inspection.

Can I clean my septic system by myself? 

It's not a good idea to try cleaning your septic tank on your own, as it's full of toxic gases that can be deadly if not properly handled. We advise always calling a professional to complete cleaning and septic tank maintenance.

Do home warranties have septic and well coverage? 

First American Home Warranty offers coverage for septic systems and well pumps. Pricing may vary based on what coverage you choose and which add-ons are required for your home.

How long do septic systems usually last?

With proper septic tank maintenance, a system can last 20-40 years! Even better news, First American Home Warranty will cover your septic tank regardless of age, as long as it's in working condition at the beginning of your contract. 

How long does septic warranty coverage from First American last?

Septic system coverage lasts for the duration of your home warranty contract — typically one year. It can be renewed as often as you like.

How long does it take to install a septic tank?

Installing a new septic tank takes about a week, but replacing an existing system can take four to eight weeks.

The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.

Please be aware that if you disassemble a covered system or item, it can invalidate your home warranty or manufacturer's warranty.