Caring for Your Septic System

While most Keystone Homes are connected to public water and sewer, occasionally we build in neighborhoods and/or On Your Land homes that require septic systems. Knowing how to properly care for your septic system is crucial to keeping it in good working order. 

Septic systems come with many benefits. They are cost efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly – just to name a few. But with that, there are some things you will want to avoid and some general maintenance to keep up with, as mentioned below.

Landscaping, Building Alterations & Fencing

It’s important to know where your tank system is before you do any add-ons or major work around your house. If you are planning on extending your home, for example, building a patio or deck that could block access to the tank, or even doing some landscaping with deep-rooted plants that could potentially jeopardize the integrity of the septic tank and/or the pipes in the drain field, you need to know where your septic system is sited.

If you intend to landscape close to the location of the septic tank and/or drain field, consider shallow-rooted plants, such as lawn grass, to plant in these areas. 

Avoiding Damage

It is important to know where your septic tank is located so you don’t inadvertently damage it by parking heavy vehicles on top of it, for example. Also, be sure hired contractors are aware of its location during construction of fencing. Digging into a drain line will void a warranty and cause premature failure of the system. 

Septic System Fails

Your septic system should operate properly. Excessive use or failure to properly remove septage is excluded from warranty. Builder will only warrant against faulty workmanship and materials and will repair or replace to perform properly except for the aforementioned items as well as the following:

1. Excessive use of water such as overuse of washing machine, and dishwasher including their simultaneous use.  

2. Connection of sump pump, roof drains or backwash from water condition to the system

3. Placing of non-biodegradable items in the system

4. Addition of any harsh chemicals, greases, or cleaning agents and excessive amounts of bleaches or drain cleaners

5. Use of a food waste disposer not supplied by the contractor

6. Placement of impervious services over the disposal area

7. Allowing vehicles to drive or park over the disposal area

8. Failure to periodically pump out the septic tank when required

If you have any questions regarding your septic tank or one of our homes, contact our team for more information today.