Broken Pipe Repairs In NJ: 5 Sewer Line Maintenance Tips

Just like the other components in your home—your heating and cooling system, for example, or your yard—your septic system needs the proper maintenance on a regular basis in order to stay in good working order. This means paying particular attention to the system’s sewer lines. Fortunately, taking care of your septic system doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The following five sewer line maintenance tips can help reduce the chances that you’ll have a major repair bill later.

1. Conserve Water

Everyone has heard of the need to reduce the number of resources that are used. This includes the water that you use each day. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average family household uses almost 70 gallons of water per day, per individual! Conserving water in your home or business means that less water enters your sewer lines and your septic system.

The EPA maintains a water conservation section on its website. Called WaterSense, this resource provides suggestions geared toward saving water at home including landscaping tips, a water budget tool and more.

2. Dispose of Waste Properly

A good rule of thumb for maintaining your sewer lines is to only allow toilet paper and human waste to enter your pipes. This means that cooking oils and grease should be disposed of in the trash—not down the kitchen sink. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to putting food waste in your garbage disposal. Better still, dispose of all food waste in the trash to reduce the number of solids that can clog your septic system. Keep items such as cat litter, paper towels, feminine hygiene products and flushable wipes out of your toilet.

3. Keep Sewer Lines Clear of Vegetation

Over time, the roots of trees can become an unforeseen problem for homeowners with septic systems. As they grow, a tree’s roots could enter the pipes and make it impossible for waste to pass. Roots can even become such an issue that they completely destroy septic pipes if they are left to grow unchecked. When planting trees, make sure to research the extent of their root system and position them away from your drainfields.

4. Properly Maintain the Drainfield

Located near your home, your drainfield’s job is to remove the contaminants of the waste that comes from your septic system. By properly maintaining it, you can protect your sewer lines and your entire septic system. Be sure to park and drive in areas that are not near your drainfield. If you drive over or park on your drainfield, you could crush the pipes and/or the septic system could collapse. Install systems such as sump pumps, roof drains and other systems designed to divert water away from the drainfield. Otherwise the additional water can reduce the efficiency of your drainfield.

5. Inspect and Pump Frequently

Many of the issues that can cause pipes to fail can be averted by having a qualified professional come to your home and perform an inspection. As a general rule, plan to have your system inspected—and pumped if needed—every three years. During this inspection, your septic company will look for signs of broken pipes or those that are malfunctioning. Your septic pump will be thoroughly tested and checked with any necessary parts being replaced.

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