If you have ever had a backed up septic tank, or one that was not working properly, you know things can be a mess. There is nothing like having sewage problems and having sewage where you do not want it. Septic tanks are usually a great way to get rid of the waste in your home, but there are things that can really do a lot of damage to the septic tank. If you are having problems with your septic tank you can always get it pumped, but the best thing to do is be proactive in your care of your sewage system. Here are a few of the best ways to ensure that your septic system keeps working well.

Garbage Cans

There are many people and households that treat the toilet and sink like a garbage can, but it definitely is not. The only thing that you should ever flush down the toilet is toilet paper and sewage. There are a few other personal items that can be flushed, but they should always be biodegradable. You should never flush something that cannot be broken down. Often when septic tanks are pumped, plastics and other types of trash are found in the tank. Also make sure that in your sinks you are very selective with what gets washed down. Try not to use the strong liquid clog removers because they can kill the bacteria that break down the sewage. The bacteria are a vital part of the entire septic system and if they are not part of the equation because they were killed off by a strong acid, then you are going to be out of luck.

Drainage Field

A common problem with those that have a septic tank is that they do not know where the tank actually is on their property. This is actually a very important part of keeping a septic system up and running properly. If you happen to be parked on the septic system, and the soil compacts and breaks the tank, you could be in for a big problem. You need to make sure that the tank is in a safe area, and that it is not accessible . You also need to make sure that the drainage field is completely free of debris and other forms of obstructions. You can always have your septic tank pumped, but if you can avoid a problem in the first place you are better off.