Summer is a time for vacations, backyard barbecues and relaxing by the pool – not the time you want to be worrying about your septic tank system Muskegon, Grand Haven and Whitehall. Summer should be a carefree time when you slow down the pace a bit and enjoy sights and smells of the season. Poor septic tank maintenance can create the wrong sights and the wrong smells! What are some signs that your septic tank may be in need of maintenance?

• contaminated wells
• untreated sewage discharge
• soft smell spots
• pooling water
• slow drains
• an overly healthy lawn
• heavy rainfall

It is best to take preventative action to avoid major problems with the septic system so follow the recommendations for best care practices and be familiar with warning signs that maintenance may be needed. Here are some summertime tips for septic tank maintenance:

PARK VEHICLES AWAY FROM THE SEPTIC SYSTEM

Be sure you know where your septic system is located. And keep all vehicle traffic off the tank, pipes, and drain field. The only exception is the lawn mower.

PUMP YOUR SYSTEM BEFORE THE PARTY

Check to see when the last time your septic tank was pumped. If you don’t know or if it has been more than 5 years, chances are it’s time for a pumping by West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Service. You can greatly reduce the likelihood of failure, avoid costly repairs, and gain peace of mind by having your system regularly inspected and pumped as needed. If you are hosting a large number of people, consider pumping your septic system prior to the party. The worst type of party fouls is a leaky smelly mess in your yard. You may also consider renting a CAT CAN PORTABLE RESTROOM for the event to take the pressure off your septic system.

LANDSCAPE WITH LOVE

Summer may be the right time to do some landscaping renovations in your yard. Be mindful of any new plantings. Grass is the ideal cover for drain fields. You can also plant other very shallow-rooted plants or flowers. However, keep in mind that if you don’t have risers installed you will need to dig up the ground to access the tanks for inspection and pumping – generally every 3-5 years. Avoid deep rooted plants, trees, shrubs and vegetables over your system. As a general rule, trees and large shrubs should be kept at least 30 feet away from your drain field (depending on the root structure and soil type). Do not fertilize over the drain field.

At West Michigan Septic Sewer and Drain Service, we find that there is a lot of confusion when it comes to septic tanks and home disposal systems. We hope to give you the information you need so that you understand and get the most from your septic system. Contact us today!