Caring for Your Septic or Aerobic System

If you are new to the neighborhood, you may also be a first-time septic or aerobic system owner. For the first couple of years here, we tried caring for our aerobic system, regularly cleaning or replacing the dispersal heads on the south end of our yard, and adding the special chlorine tablets several times a year. Then one night a strange alarm went off and we learned that fire ants had stripped the insulation off the wires leading to the aerator and it had shorted out. After replacing the wiring and aerator, we decided to enter into a service agreement with a company that services aerobic systems. We did an online search and talked to several companies, but were referred by one of our real estate clients to Randy’s Septic (Randy and his two sons are friendly and reliable.) We pay $250 a year which includes an extra $60 for chlorine. Josh comes by, checks the system, and adds chlorine. We like the fact that we get to recycle the grey water to irrigate our side yard, and the grass grows well there.

However, if you have a septic system, the dispersal is through buried field lines. Although there’s no annual maintenance, you will need to be mindful of a few things:

1. Regular Pumping: It’s recommended to have your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the size of your household and tank. This helps remove accumulated solids and prevents clogging. (Because much of Country Place has a lot of red clay and iron ore rocks, regular pumping is really important.)

2. Water Conservation: Excessive water usage can overload the system. Be mindful of water consumption by fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, and spreading out laundry and dishwashing loads.

3. Proper Waste Disposal: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or chemicals, as they can damage the system.

4. Septic-Friendly Products: Use septic-safe cleaning products and avoid harsh chemicals that can disrupt the natural bacteria in the tank. Look for labels that indicate they are safe for septic systems.

5. Drain Field Protection: Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects over the drain field, as this can compact the soil and hinder proper wastewater absorption.

6. Regular Inspections: Have a professional inspect your septic system regularly to identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

Remember, every septic system is unique, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional for specific care instructions based on your system’s design and location. Glenn Harris designed many of the systems here in Country Place and is very knowledgeable about our soil type.