Septic systems are an eco-friendly way to process waste for homes that cannot connect to a municipal supply. They are dependable systems that require just a bit of routine maintenance. One part of a septic system that is often overlooked is the leach field, the series of tubes that distribute the water collected from the tank through the soil, where it is treated. Using the following tips will ensure that this part of your system does its job correctly. 

3 Leach Field Maintenance Tips

1. Keep Heavy Equipment Off

Cars, construction equipment, and even heavy lawn gear can compact the soil, and compacted soil does not absorb water efficiently. If the water has no room to soak into the earth, it may pool above ground or back up into your home. Heavy equipment can damage the distribution lines that disperse water through the field. It’s generally fine to walk on a leach field but avoid parking on it or driving large items like riding mowers or tractors over it. 

2. Spread Out Water Usage

Your leach field should be able to absorb all the water filtered through your septic system, but it may not be able to absorb it all at once. Specifically, your laundry, dishwasher, and bathtub can add lots of water quickly, which may back up the lines or cause water to puddle over the field if the soil is already saturated. Spreading out your laundry, dishes, and baths throughout the week and not running multiple appliances at once can prevent full soil saturation. 

3. Direct Storm Water Away

Your leach field can also get saturated by rainwater, which can cause backups or puddling when water from your septic tank reaches the soil. You can’t prevent rain from reaching the field directly, but you can avoid extra puddles by directing downspouts away from the field. You can prevent septic issues during major rainstorms by not using appliances that require a lot of water.

Keep your leach field in great condition with services from the professionals at American On Site in Molalla, OR. They provide full installations, maintenance, pumping, and repairs, plus personalized care for every customer. Visit the website for a complete list of services, or call (503) 829-7600 to request a quote.