Tips to Avoid Septic Backups Over the Holidays

The holidays are a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and celebrations. However, with the increase in household activity, your septic system can easily become overwhelmed if not properly maintained. At Septic Service Pro, we understand that the last thing you want to deal with during the holidays is a septic backup. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to avoid septic problems during this busy time of year. From monitoring water use to avoiding common drain mistakes, here are some helpful tips to keep your septic system running smoothly over the holidays.

Watch What You Put Down the Drain

One of the most important ways to prevent septic backups is by being mindful of what goes down your drains. With holiday cooking and cleaning in full swing, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to costly clogs. Avoid putting the following down the drain:

• Grease, oils, and fats: These can solidify in your pipes and cause blockages, which can lead to a septic backup. Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
• Food scraps: Even if you have a garbage disposal, large food scraps can clog your pipes and overwhelm your septic tank. Scrape leftovers into the trash rather than rinsing them down the drain.
• Non-biodegradable items: Items like wipes, paper towels, and sanitary products should never be flushed, as they can clog both your plumbing and septic systems.

In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends limiting the amount of water and waste that enters your septic system to help prevent overloads and backups.

Monitor Water Usage During Large Gatherings

With guests staying over and extra showers, laundry, and dishwashing, water usage tends to spike over the holidays. Excessive water use can overwhelm your septic system, especially if it hasn’t been recently maintained. Here’s how you can avoid water overload:

• Stagger water use: Spread out activities that use a lot of water, such as showers, laundry, and dishwashing, throughout the day. This will help prevent your septic tank from becoming overloaded all at once.
• Install water-saving fixtures: Consider using water-efficient showerheads, faucets, and toilets to reduce the amount of water entering your septic system. This can also help save on your water bill while reducing strain on your septic system.
• Remind guests: Let your guests know to avoid long showers or unnecessary flushing, and make sure they know not to flush anything inappropriate down the toilet.

A standard septic system typically requires around 24-48 hours to properly treat and filter wastewater. By spreading out water usage, you give your system more time to process waste efficiently.

Schedule a Main Drain Cleaning or Septic Tank Pumping Before the Holidays

One of the best preventative measures you can take is scheduling a septic tank pumping or main drain cleaning before the holiday season begins. Regular septic maintenance is essential for avoiding clogs, overflows, and backups, especially during periods of heavy use. Septic tanks should typically be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on your household size and water usage. However, if it has been a while since your last pumping, the holidays are a good time to schedule an appointment.

A main drain cleaning can also help ensure that any clogs or buildup in your plumbing system are cleared before your guests arrive. This simple maintenance step can prevent unexpected septic issues and give you peace of mind as you entertain family and friends.

In addition to pumping and cleaning, consider scheduling a professional inspection of your septic system. An inspection can identify potential problems before they become emergencies. Whether it’s a crack in your tank, a malfunctioning drain field, or a minor clog, catching these issues early can save you from costly repairs or a messy septic backup during the holidays.

Contact Septic Service Pro Today!

Holiday gatherings are meant for fun and relaxation, not septic system headaches. By being mindful of what you put down the drain, managing water use, and scheduling septic maintenance before the busy season, you can help ensure that your septic system stays in good working order. At Septic Service Pro, we’re here to help with all your septic maintenance and repair needs. Contact us today to schedule a septic tank pumping or main drain cleaning to enjoy a stress-free holiday season!