Why the Holidays Take a Toll on Residential Septic Tanks
The holiday season is a time for celebration, hosting family gatherings, and creating fond memories. But while the hustle and bustle in your home can warm your heart, it might be causing your septic system to struggle behind the scenes. From increased water usage to grease buildup in your drains, discover why the holidays take a toll on residential septic tanks and how you can prevent issues before they disrupt your festivities.
Increased Water Usage
When you have guests over for the holidays, you probably notice a sharp increase in bath, shower, and toilet usage. The issue with this is that residential septic systems are designed for normal day-to-day household use. When your household uses too much water, your system can become overwhelmed and unable to properly treat wastewater. This can result in backups or a flooded drain field.
To prevent this, encourage guests to space out their showers and avoid running the washing machine and dishwasher at the same time.
Grease Buildup From Holiday Cooking
Whether you’re frying up a turkey or whipping together a batch of creamy mashed potatoes with extra butter, many holiday recipes produce grease. Unfortunately, many people don’t know that dumping grease down the kitchen sink can clog pipes and block septic tanks.
As it cools, grease hardens into clumps that restrict water flow and interfere with septic processes. With this in mind, always make sure to properly dispose of your grease. Simply pour it into a jar or can, allow it to harden, and toss it in the trash. No matter how convenient it may seem, never pour grease, oils, or fats down the drain.
Increased Solid Waste
Nonbiodegradable waste and excess solids from items dumped in the kitchen sink or flushed down the toilet can fill your tank faster than expected, leaving it in need of premature pumping. Take the time to educate your guests about what can and cannot go down the drain or toilet. Remind them to only use septic-safe toilet paper and avoid flushing wipes, feminine hygiene products, or food down the drain.
Keep Your Septic System in Good Shape
Now that you understand why the holidays take a toll on residential septic tanks, you can enjoy the season’s festivities without worrying about costly septic repairs. With a bit of planning and mindful use, your septic system can survive the holiday season. You can also avoid unnecessary repairs or inconveniences by scheduling a tank inspection or pumping ahead of time.
At Fletcher’s Plumbing & Contracting, we offer home water treatment in Northern California to help you prepare for the busy holiday season. When in doubt, always call a professional. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’re experiencing plumbing issues.
