If your home has a septic system, you probably understand the important role that maintenance plays in keeping the system working properly. Along with pumping the system, maintenance includes cleaning the effluent filter. Although it may seem like the filter plays a small role in the functionality of the septic system, it is vital in preventing solids from entering the drain field, which may extend the lifespan of the drain field.
Depending on the design and layout of your home’s septic system, effluent filters may be placed inside the septic tank at the drainage outlet or in a separate housing, located externally near the septic tank.
The Role of Filter Maintenance
To keep a septic system working efficiently, it’s essential to provide filter maintenance. Like the filter on a washing machine, once it is filled with debris, it can no long work at full capacity. Also, keep in mind that if your washing machine doesn’t have a filter, it may add to an already clogged septic system. Lint and undissolved washing detergent can form into solids which the effluent filter must address.
When the filter has become compromised, there are several clear signs that indicate it’s time to clean or replace it. These include:
- Your home will experience slow drainage in the bathroom and kitchen
- Drains can become clogged as wastewater has trouble flowing through the dirty effluent filter and into the drain field
- The septic system will back up due to slow drainage, causing standing water in showers, bathtubs and sinks
Maintenance Tips for Septic Systems
How often a septic system filter needs to be cleaned can range from monthly or quarterly to yearly or once every several years. Scheduling a filter cleaning or replacement generally depends on how often the system is used, how many people are using it, system design, how much wastewater flows through the system and the type of filtration that is used.
The rules that apply to filters also apply to how often the septic system needs to be pumped. Your septic system may need yearly maintenance or every few years may be adequate. If the system is newly installed, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter cleaning and pumping. If you don’t have this information, a professional plumber can inspect the system and filter to recommend a maintenance schedule.
To keep your septic system working properly, it is important to follow the recommended cleaning and filter inspection schedule to minimize the chance of future problems and expensive repairs.
For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
