3 Ways to Avoid a Septic Emergency During Heavy Rain

Fall storms are here - Learn how you can be better prepared as a homeowner

Whether its heavy rain due to hurricanes along the coast, or an early snowstorm turned to sleet and slush, it seems without fail that rain in Central Pa means septic problems. With over 60 years of experience in the septic industry, we've noticed a thing or two, so today we're sharing some tips to avoid a backup or a basement full of wastewater. Keep reading to learn more, and if your septic tank is due to be pumped, don't wait. Give us a call today.

1. Avoid an Oversaturated Drainfield. Here's How:
   Heavy rain takes a major toll on your drainfield so if it's raining all week long or you know that rain is in the forecast, avoid excess water use that will only put more stress on your septic tank + drainfield. Remember, your system is designed to handle up to a certain amount of water and with rain and snow the top of your drainfield can become soggy fast, especially if things aren't filtering properly. Try these practical tips to keep your drainfield from becoming oversaturated: 
   
   - Space out loads of laundry or dishwasher use
   - Avoid baths and keep showers short
   - Make sure downspouts are not directing runoff water towards your drainfield
   
   
2. Don't Delay When it Comes to Routine Service
   One of the easiest ways to avoid a septic problem is to have your septic tank serviced regularly. If your tank is full or you've been neglecting regular maintenance, heavy rain or excess water use is a sure way to get things backing up. For an average sized septic system we recommend service very 2-3 years, but if you're not sure when your tank was serviced last because you recently moved in or you haven't kept track of your service dates, give us a call. We're happy to come out and evaluate your system so when storms come you know your system is working properly.
   
   
3. Be Careful What You Flush
   This one might seem like a no-brainer, but when you have a septic system it's imperative you have a strict "do not flush" list. This should include things like wipes, paper towels, hair balls, feminine products, chemicals or paint and especially food waste and grease. When there is strain on your septic system from heavy rain outdoors, you don't want to overwhelm your tank from indoors with a bunch of things that can cause a physical backup or throw off the balance of good/bad bacteria in your septic tank.

When it comes to your septic system, heavy rain is no reason for alarm if you take good care of your septic tank and drainfield, and have your system serviced regularly. If you're not sure your family has been following the "do not flush" rules or your tank is due to be pumped out this year, give us a call today to schedule your Central Pa septic service. Townships are strict about pumping ordinances and right now our regular pumping schedule is about 6 weeks out. If you are due in 2022, now's the time to get your service scheduled.