DIY Septic Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands

DIY Septic Maintenance Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands

Your septic system is one of the most vital yet often overlooked parts of your home’s plumbing. It quietly handles waste and wastewater every day, but when it’s neglected or improperly maintained, it can lead to major damage and major expenses. Many homeowners try to save money by taking a do-it-yourself approach to septic maintenance, but small mistakes can quickly turn into costly repairs.

In this blog post, our professionals from Metro Septic Pumping will discuss common DIY septic maintenance mistakes that could cost you thousands.

Ignoring Regular Septic Pumping

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is skipping regular septic pumping in Atlanta, GA. Many people believe that as long as their drains are flowing, the tank must be fine, but that’s far from the truth. Over time, solids build up inside the tank, and if they’re not pumped out regularly, they can clog the drain field and cause sewage backups. Once the drain field fails, you’re looking at thousands of dollars in repairs or even a full system replacement. Regular septic pumping every three to five years is essential to prevent these issues. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to keep your system running efficiently.

Using Harsh Chemicals for Cleaning

Some homeowners pour bleach, drain cleaners, or other harsh chemicals down their drains thinking it will help “clean” their septic system. Unfortunately, this can do more harm than good. These chemicals kill the natural bacteria inside your tank that break down waste. Without these beneficial microbes, solids accumulate faster, leading to blockages and potential system failure. If you need to clean your plumbing or drains, use septic-safe cleaning products instead. It’s always best to consult a professional septic company that offers cleaning services to ensure your system remains balanced and healthy.

Flushing the Wrong Items

Flushing non-biodegradable items is a guaranteed way to create septic problems. Products like paper towels, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and even “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. These materials can quickly clog pipes or fill the tank with solid waste, reducing its capacity and leading to backups. A simple rule to remember is that only human waste and septic-safe toilet paper should go down the toilet. Anything else could require an emergency septic service call, and that’s a bill you’ll definitely want to avoid.

Neglecting Warning Signs

Your septic system often gives you early warning signs before a serious failure occurs, but many homeowners ignore them until it’s too late. Slow drains, unpleasant odors near the drain field, or gurgling sounds from the plumbing can all indicate problems. Ignoring these symptoms can cause small issues to escalate into system-wide damage. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a septic firm right away for inspection and septic cleaning or repairs. Acting quickly can make the difference between a minor fix and a major, costly overhaul.

DIY Excavation or Repairs

Trying to dig up or repair your septic tank on your own is a dangerous and expensive mistake. Septic systems are complex and require specialized tools and knowledge to handle safely. A simple misstep can lead to environmental contamination, health risks, and expensive restoration costs. Professional septic companies have the training and equipment to safely diagnose and repair issues without risking further damage. When it comes to septic repairs or replacements, leave it to the experts who provide licensed septic service.

Need a Reliable Company?

Are you in need of septic service? Luckily, we at Metro Septic Pumping have dedicated workers ready at your disposal. Contact our representatives for more questions.