Your sewer system in the country is a finely tuned community of microorganisms, and you don't want to mess them up! Think before you flush or pour certain things down the drain. Read up on the structure and care of septic systems in Montana by linking to this MontGuide from Montana State University Extension Service publication.
The Killers!
- fats or oils
- pesticides
- bleach in large quantities (a little in the white cycle followed by detergent on occassion is ok)
- solvents
- paints, rinse your brushes outside
- acids
- gasoline
- antifreeze
- toxic household chemicals
- pharmaceuticals
The Cloggers!
- Tampons
- sanitary napkins
- kitty litter
- diapers
- baby wipes
- grease
- coffee grounds
- cigarette filters
- cotton swabs
Garbage disposals are only for the occasional rinse of kitchen waste, not to be used for the disposal of leftovers! Too much kitchen waste will fill up your septic tank in a hurry.
How often should a septic tank be pumped? It really depends on the size of the tank and the amount of use the system gets. You should probably not go over 5 years in between pumping. If you have an effluent filter, that needs to be cleaned every year or two. You can do this yourself, or you can do what I do, call the septic guy and have him come out and do a tank pump and filter cleaning and inspection.
How long will a septic tank last? The tank itself may last for years and years. The biggest concern is for any working parts and pumps that may be involved in the more modern and sophisticated systems.
The most likely system to fail is the drain-field. If you use too many of the killers and cloggers listed above, you will end up needing a drain-field replacement, and that's not a fun time!
Take care of your septic system, and it'll take care of you.
The Quilting Realtor
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Many Dream Of Living In Montana I'm One of the Lucky One's That Already Do! Wanda Thomas Call or Text 406-698-8640 for help with all things Montana. |
