4 Ways to Save Money When it Comes to Your Septic System

Because in this economy everyone deserves to save a few bucks!

Septic service is part of owning a home, but an unplanned emergency visit or digging fee can be a real pain, especially with the rising costs of inflation nowadays. We pride ourselves on our great service and reasonable rates, so this month we wanted to share a few ways to avoid the unexpected and prevent additional service calls when it comes to your septic system.

Keep in mind, most homes require service every 2-4 years, and if you follow these tips you'll be able to stick to a regular schedule that's simple to budget for, with no hidden costs. As much as we love our customers, we don't want to see you more often than we need to! (for septic service that is!) Keep reading to learn more or contact us today to schedule service!

1. Be Careful What You Flush
   Rule #1 when it comes to septic systems... If you want to avoid a backup or a clog, be careful what you flush! This means no feminine products, hairballs, paper towels, napkins, wipes (of any kind) or chemical products. Not only can you imagine the physical clog a pile of paper towels or wipes may cause, but the chemical compounds in paint thinners, sulfates, and dyes can wreak havoc on your septic tank, disrupting the natural balance of bacteria in your tank that are needed to break down solids. At the end of the day, if you're not sure if it should be flushed, it's better to be safe than sorry!
   
   
2. Don't Skip Routine Maintenance
   If you know your tank is due to be pumped every 2-4 years, stick to your maintenance schedule. Going longer than you're supposed to can lead to issues - that's why some areas have mandated pumping ordinances. Routine maintenance can help detect any unseen problems with your tank, baffles or outlet lines, and having a professional perform a routine inspection during your pumping can provide you with peace of mind until your next service date. Routine maintenance can also ensure you aren't hit with an additional charge for "heavy solids" at your next clean-out. When your tank has been neglected, sludge can build up and removing heavy solids costs us more to dispose - a fee that gets passed down to you, the customer.
   
   
3. Be Careful Where You Park
   Whether you have a sand mound or a traditional septic system, be careful not to park cars or heavy equipment above your septic tank or drainfield. It can be easy to assume that it won't matter if you're only parked for a short period of time, but one of the easiest ways to damage your septic system is from above. The worst part - you won't know there's been damage until you start experiencing issues in your home - slow draining sinks or showers, or worst of all a backup because a line has been damaged.
   
   
4. Dig Open Buried Manhole Covers Before Your Scheduled Service
   If you know your septic system manhole covers and access points are buried, dig them out ahead of time to avoid a digging charge. Digging open lids and covers takes our crew a lot of time, especially if the covers are more than 6 inches below grade. If you have your lids dug out for us, it will save us time and save you the digging fee. We can install what's called a "riser" or an "extension" to bring your access points to grade if this is a recurring issue for you. Simply ask us when you call to schedule your service. Learn more about installing septic risers here.

Ready to save on your next septic pumping? Contact us today to request a quote. If you follow these simple tips your clean-out should be easy! We offer quality septic pumping service in Elmira, Corning, Big Flats, Hector, Watkins, Ithaca, Waverly, and Owego NY.