Neglecting Regular Pumping and InspectionsSkipping regular pumping and inspections is one of the worst septic system maintenance mistakes homeowners make. Our team at Septic Solutions has seen too many systems fail because of this.
- Based on 15+ years of hands-on experience, a standard tank needs pumping every 3–5 years, depending on household size.
- Skipping this step lets solids build up, clogging the drain field and causing backups. Regular inspections catch small issues early.
- For a 3-bedroom home, pumping every 3 years is typical. Larger households may need it more often.
Don’t wait for disaster—schedule routine maintenance to avoid costly repairs. It’s the smartest way to protect your investment.
Flushing the Wrong ItemsWhat not to flush septic system includes wipes, feminine products, grease, and chemicals. Your system isn’t designed for these. Our technicians see this daily—grease solidifies in pipes, causing blockages.
- Only toilet paper and human waste belong in the tank.
- Even "flushable" wipes can cause major issues.
- Stick to basics to avoid costly clogs.
We’ve fixed countless systems where homeowners tried to flush non-biodegradable items, leading to expensive repairs. It’s a simple habit that keeps your system running smoothly for years.
Excessive Water Usage Overwhelming the SystemOverloading your septic tank with too much water is a common septic tank mistake to avoid. Your system processes a set amount of water daily.
Doing multiple laundry loads in one day or long showers saturates the drain field. This prevents proper treatment, leading to backups.
Spread out water use: space out laundry, fix leaks, and install water-saving fixtures. Simple habits prevent major system strain. It’s an easy fix that saves you money in the long run.
Planting or Building Over the Septic SystemPlanting trees or building structures over your
Septic System is a common error. Roots from shrubs crack pipes, and heavy equipment compacts soil, crushing the drain field.
Our team has fixed many systems where homeowners installed driveways or gardens over the tank.
Pro tip: Always mark your system’s location. Grass is safe, but no gardens, pools, or sheds. Protect this area for decades of reliable performance. It’s one mistake that leads to costly repairs you can’t ignore.
Ignoring Warning SignsIgnoring
signs septic system failing like
- slow drains,
- gurgling sounds,
- or sewage odors is dangerous.
These red flags mean your system is struggling. Septic Solutions LLC experts handle emergencies where homeowners waited too long.
Pooling water in your yard or foul smells near the drain field? Call a pro immediately. Early action prevents small issues from becoming costly repairs. Ignoring these signs turns minor problems into major emergencies that can cost thousands. Don’t wait—act fast when you notice warning signs.
Attempting DIY repairs without expertise It’s risky. Instead of saving money, you could damage the system further. The right
septic maintenance tips include hiring certified professionals. Our team has seen DIY attempts lead to worse problems—like broken pipes or contaminated soil.
Trust experts with the knowledge and tools to fix issues safely. It’s not worth the risk—professional help ensures your system stays reliable. Save yourself stress and money by leaving it to the pros.