Septic systems can effectively treat household wastewater.
Home septic systems that are properly installed and consistently maintained can provide an effective means of treating household waste water, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Homeowners who fail to properly maintain their septic systems risk malfunctions that are hazardous to the environment and may be expensive to correct. Effective home remedies for common septic system problems can keep the system functioning properly. Does this Spark an idea?
Water Usage
Sometimes, more water flows through a septic system than it was designed to carry. According to the EPA, every person in an average single-family dwelling generates approximately 70 gallons of water usage per day. A leaky toilet can add up to 200 additional gallons per day to the system. A simple home remedy for homeowners with overtaxed septic systems is to learn to use water more efficiently. Fix leaky faucets and toilets. Better yet, replace old toilets with high-efficiency toilets that use 50 to 75 percent less water. Spreading out laundry days may also help to prevent water overload in the septic system, according to the EPA.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can find tiny cracks and imperfections in sewer lines and begin to grow through the line between the home and the septic tank. This can cause clogs, which may back up into the home through the drains or toilets. The University of Maryland Extension service recommends against using a chemical root killer in home septic systems because of the potential for the chemicals to contaminate the area groundwater. Instead, the service recommends homeowners utilize a mechanical drain rooter device as the best home remedy for roots in the septic line.
Leachfield
The leachfield, sometimes referred to as the drain field, is land adjacent to the septic tank that receives the outflow of water. The water percolates through the sediment of the leachfield, which acts as a purifying agent. It is imperative to keep the leachfield well maintained. Don't plant shrubs or trees in the leachfield, because their roots can cause clogs, according to the EPA. Don't drive vehicles or heavy equipment over the leachfield, because the weight can cause the soil to become compacted and may also crack or damage the septic tank or septic lines. Don't pave over the leachfield, and always direct rainwater drainpipes away from it. If the leachfield begins to become soggy or starts to smell bad, it's time to have the septic tank professionally pumped out.
Home Remedies to Avoid
Many home remedies and commercial septic tank additives have not proven to be effective in preventing or eliminating problems, according to the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association. The University of Maryland Extension service states that adding commercial products such as bacteria or yeast to a home septic system is unnecessary. Commercial and home additives have not been shown to improve septic system function and may actually harm the system.
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