A.J. Foss has been a leader in precast concrete septic tanks since 1963. Serving residential and commercial clients throughout New Hampshire, Maine and northern Massachusetts, A.J. Foss carries generations of experience and many years of providing quality concrete products throughout New England. A septic system has a very important job to do. Below are some tips from the N.H. precast concrete experts to help maintain a septic system properly and avoid future problems.

Have Your Septic System Pumped Regularly

Most septic systems need to be pumped every three to five years. When you have yours pumped will depend on how much water your home or business uses. The more people using the septic system increases the water flow and how much pumping gets done.

Limit Excessive Water Usage

Another tip from A.J. Foss is to be water-wise. Using less water can help to increase the lifespan of your septic system. Excessive water use can overwork your system and cause it to fail prematurely. Less water is also good for the environment.

Install Low-Flow Shower Heads And Faucets

There are many benefits of using low-flow showerheads and faucets. If you are trying to save water, the low-flow devices will limit the amount of water coming out of your tank. An added benefit on top of maintaining your septic system is a lower water bill each month. Low-flow fixtures can be found by visiting your local hardware store.

Run Full Loads For Laundry and Dishwasher

Andrew J. Foss, Inc. recommends that in order to save water and lessen the strain on your septic system, be sure you only wash full loads of laundry instead of multiple small loads. The same goes with dishwashers. Be sure you have a full dishwasher loaded before you run it.

Be Cautious With Flushing

It is important to never flush anything down your toilet except for toilet paper. Other items such as sanitary napkins, diapers, cigarette butts, condoms, grease, coffee grounds, tampons, oil and any other paper products should never be flushed down the toilet. Even items that are labeled flushable may not be suitable for your septic system.

Don’t Drain Large Volumes Of Water

Never drain huge amounts of water into your septic system. Water from swimming pools and hot tubs can drown your drain field and the chemicals in the water can destroy the bacteria necessary for keeping your septic tank clean. Direct water away from your drain field. This includes draining swimming pools, hot tubs and the water coming from the gutters on your roof.

Landscaping “Don’ts” Over Septic Tank

As a quality New England contractor A.J. Foss Inc. suggests that when it comes to your landscaping, it is best to only cover your septic tank with grass. Do not plant anything over the tank that has deep root systems. The roots of certain plants and trees can damage your tank and cause the need for costly repairs.

Keep Septic Tank Lid Accessible

Your septic system’s lid should be easily accessible for routine maintenance and repairs. Consider having “risers” installed to make maintenance easier and quicker.

Limit Garbage Disposal Use

Too much use of a garbage disposal can leak grease and solids into your drain field. This can lead to clogs that will need a professional to fix. If you need to have a garbage disposal in your home, use it sparingly and with caution.