The holiday season is nearly here, which means getting together with friends and family members. While you might think preparing only involves cleaning the house and preparing meals, one area you shouldn’t overlook is your septic system. From septic pumping to educating your guests, the following tips will help ensure your system remains functional during the upcoming holiday season.

3 Tips to Protect Your Septic System Over the Holidays

1. Schedule Septic Pumping Beforehand

Septic pumping is recommended at least every three to five years, depending on the size of your home and the number of inhabitants. However, before the holidays’ heavy use, scheduling a preventative pumping session is also recommended. Even if you aren’t yet due for an appointment, having an empty tank beforehand will help avoid backups or overflow when water consumption and waste creation increase.

2. Set Some Rules

If you plan on hosting guests, offer a bit of preventative education before their visit. For example, remind them not to put anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, as other items can cause clogs and backups.

Also, explain how to properly use your garbage disposal. Keep substances that might congeal, such as oils and grease, out of the disposal, and always throw items like meat bones and popcorn kernels in the trash, as their tough exterior can damage the blades.

3. Aerate Snow Over the Tank & Drainfield

If it snows over the holidays, don’t plow the ground above the septic tank. The snow offers an additional layer of insulation, which protects your system from freezing.

Instead, aerate the snow above the drainfield and tank to encourage adequate airflow. Use a garden hoe to chop the snow and create air pockets.

If you need help maintaining your septic system this holiday season, turn to Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing in North Pole, AK. For over 25 years, the professionals at this family-owned and -operated company have provided residents with a broad range of maintenance services, from septic pumping to pipe thawing. Visit their website to learn more about what they do, and call (907) 488-9855 to make an appointment.