Basic Septic Maintenance
By Crissy Davis
Most of my client base is located in the Gwinnett County area. With Gwinnett County having over 30% of the population using septic systems, it has one of the highest concentrations of septic systems in the US. Many of my clients are new to the area or first time home buyers, as such they are concerned about their new home being on a septic system. I would like to provide a little information to assist with demystifying septic systems.
As with any main system of a house, maintenance is a key factor in making sure that they perform properly. Septic systems are no exception. This starts at the being process in purchasing a home. I always encourage my buyers to request the seller to have the septic system pumped, inspected and provide a septic clearance letter from a licensed professional septic company. In the event that a septic clearance letter cannot be obtained, the seller must fix any issues related to the septic in order for a letter to be written. This requirement will allow the buyers to feel confident that their septic system is in good working order. After that, then it is basic maintenance that will allow the septic system to function properly for many years. Below is a diagram of a septic system from the EPA.
Gwinnett County Department of Water recommends that Septic Systems be pumped every 3 – 5 years depending on use, i.e. people living in the house and how much water is being put through the system.
Some basic rules to follow will allow the system to last longer between pump outs:
- Minimize water usage by installing low-flow toilets and fixtures. Spread out the usage of the washing machine and dishwasher, to reduce the amount of water going into the system all at once.
- Do not use a garbage disposal. Grease and fat from food can clog the system and not allow it to function properly.
- Avoid putting anything in the system that does not quickly biodegrade, i.e. no contact lenses, condoms, tampons, coffee grounds, cigarette butts, baby wipes (even if they say “flushable”).
- Avoid using bleach, bleach alternatives, drain cleaners and paint thinners which can kill the natural biology of the Septic System.
- Avoid cleaners with phosphorous, it can deplete oxygen, thus not allowing the system to properly decompose the waste. Also, phosphorous is harmful to the environment and can leach into the soil.
- Use “septic safe” toilet paper. Most of the larger brands have a septic-safe option, and will have a symbol somewhere on the packaging.
Septic systems do not have to be a mystery to a homeowner. Following these simple steps, a diligent homeowner should not have issues with their septic system. There are many resources available to assist homeowners with understanding their septic system. Gwinnett County has some great resources to help a homeowner better understand their septic system. They have the Homeowner’s Guide to Septic System Maintenance and additional information on their website.
If you have any questions or need more information, call me, I help get you the information that you need.
Crissy Davis is a Realtor® with Nest Realty Atlanta. Thanks to her corporate experience and her empathetic nature, she has the ability to assist clients through the real estate process with professionalism, integrity, and honesty.