How to Avoid Septic Backup During the Holidays

How to Avoid Septic Backup During the Holidays

Your septic system is designed to handle a steady stream of wastewater. As solids and wastewater enter the septic tank, they are separated, and the liquid effluent is steadily discharged into the drain field where it percolates through the soil. During the holidays when you have many visitors, a spike in the amount of wastewater can put a heavy burden on your septic system and cause septic backups and other potential damage to your septic system. To avoid such a party pooper, consider some of these tips by Metro Septic Pumping to avoid overburdening your septic system. The rule of thumb is to space out water usage and allow the septic system to breathe.

Opt for Water-Efficient Appliances & Toilets

If you have a septic system, then installing water-efficient appliances and toilets can end up saving you money on septic repairs and maintenance in the long run. We can’t forget that they will also save you money on water bills. If you do not have time to upgrade your toilets to low-volume toilets, then consider reducing the water level in the toilet tank so as to limit the amount of water filling the septic tank per flush.

Do Laundry at Off-Times

Washing machines result in gallons upon gallons of wastewater. Running the washing machine in the middle of the day when the kids are running in and out of the bathroom, people are showering, and the kitchen sink is running can put a strain on the septic system. Be efficient with the washing machine by filling it up with full loads as opposed to tossing in a shirt or two. We recommend running the laundry machine late in the evening when other faucets, toilets, and appliances are on standby.

Don’t Run the Dishwasher Right After Dinner

So, you have just finished cooking a grand feast and everyone loved the meal. You might be tempted to get the dishes out of the way, but Metro Septic Pumping advises that you give yourself and your septic system a break. Shortly after dinner, there will be a lot of guests relieving themselves and washing their hands. Adding the extra burden of the dishwasher’s wastewater into the septic tank can mean trouble.

Schedule and Shorten the Shower Times

Who does not love a nice, long warm shower? It is easy to lose track of the time when you are in the shower. At the same time, it is easy to lose track of the amount of water filling the septic tank when the showers are filled. Some people like morning showers and some enjoy showering in the evening. Have a conversation with your guests and suggest a shower schedule that will even out the water demand over the day. If Uncle Jimmy breaks the 30-minute mark in the shower, turning off the water heater might wake him up!

Call the Professionals When You Need Help

If you still end up experiencing sewage backups, then have the professionals at Metro Septic Pumping on speed dial. We are ready to act 24/7/365. Our friendly representatives are on standby to take your call to schedule septic tank cleaning in your area.