Do Guests and Holidays Impact Septic Tank Levels?

Why Holidays Stress Your Septic System

Wastewater from your home collects in the septic tank for separation into three layers: sludge, scum, and liquid effluent. Sludge is heavy and sinks to the bottom, while scum forms the top layer. This allows the wastewater in the middle to flow into the drain or leach field for further treatment before it is dispersed into the soil.

When family and friends visit, daily household routines change and put more strain on your system than it is designed to handle. From increased water usage to more frequent flushing, the impact of holiday hosting cannot be overstated. If your system already struggles with foul smells, slow drains, or long gaps between septic pumping, minor issues can escalate into messy emergencies if you are not ready.

Key Tips to Keep Your Septic System Holiday-Ready

With the holidays around the corner, ensuring your wastewater treatment unit can withstand the additional stress is essential. Let’s explore helpful tips to help you take a more proactive approach towards septic maintenance.

Get Ahead with Pre-Holiday Septic Pumping

According to industry experts, septic tank pumping should be done every 3-5 years. If your last visit by a septic company was over 3 years ago, or you notice slow drains, it is a sign you need professional help before guests arrive. By prioritizing preventive maintenance, you can rest assured that your system will be in good working order when you need it the most.

Spread Out Water Usage

While septic systems have varying capacities, they can still fill if left unattended. With that in mind, heavy water use during the holidays can overwhelm your septic system. Nothing is more frustrating than frequent clogs or backups due to staggering showers, running a full dishwasher, or doing laundry loads in succession. A simple adjustment in your water usage can make a big difference, allowing your system to process wastewater efficiently.

Protect Your Kitchen Drains

The holidays cannot be the same without delicious food and beverages. This means more oils, fats, and scraps going down the drain. Kitchen waste accumulates in the pipes, obstructing flow and disrupting bacterial activity in the tank. Before putting dirty dishes in the washer or rinsing them in the sink, scrape food in the trash bin, pour grease into a container, and use garbage disposals sparingly.

Keep an Eye on Warning Signs

A well-maintained septic system can still break down during the holidays, prompting emergency septic services. The most effective way to avoid devastating damage or messy surprises with guests around is to keep an eye out for telltale signs of trouble. During the holidays, check for slow sinks or tubs, gurgling drains, smelly drains, or water pooling in the yard. Early detection and intervention play a crucial role in protecting your home and loved ones.

Do not wait until it is too late to prepare for the holidays. Contact A1 Septic to book an appointment with our experts and ensure that your system remains in good working order all year round.