Owning a septic system comes with responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few good habits and a bit of common sense, you can keep your system running smoothly for years to come. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home with a septic tank or have been managing one for a while, these simple steps will help you avoid messy surprises.
Things Septic Tank Owners Should be Doing
1. Do pump out your tank regularly
Septic tanks don’t clean themselves. Over time, solids build up and need to be removed. Most systems should be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on household size and water usage. A regular pump out prevents blockages, overflows and damage to the drain field.
2. Do use septic-safe cleaning products
Choose cleaning products that are labelled biodegradable or septic safe. Harsh chemicals can kill the good bacteria in your tank that help break down waste.
3. Do spread out water usage
Too much water at once can flood your tank and overwhelm the system. Try to space out heavy water use, like running the washing machine and dishwasher on different days and fix any leaking taps or running toilets.
4. Do know where your system is
It sounds obvious, but many people don’t actually know where their septic tank or trenches are located. Mark the location so you can avoid driving over it or planting anything too close.
5. Do call a professional if you notice signs of trouble
Slow drains, bad smells, gurgling pipes or soggy patches in the yard can all point to a problem. It’s better to call early and fix a small issue than wait for a full-blown backup.
Things Septic Tank Owners Should Not Do
1. Don’t flush anything but toilet paper
Wipes, sanitary items, paper towels, cotton buds and even “flushable” products can clog your system.
Items that should not be flushed include:
- Cigarette butts – They contain toxins and don’t break down.
- Disposable diapers – Thick plastic layers and absorbent gels are a no-go.
- Sanitary napkins and tampons – These can swell, block pipes and won’t decompose.
- Handi-wipes and baby wipes – Even “flushable” ones can clog systems.
- Pop-off toilet wand scrubbers – Not designed to break down at all.
- Rubbish of any kind – Your toilet is not for rubbish.
- Condoms – They float, stretch and cause issues inside tanks and pumps.
- Hair – Gets tangled and clumps together in pipes and filters.
- Bandages – Often made from synthetic materials that never break down.
- Rags and strings – These get caught and block flow inside tanks and pipes.
- Coffee grounds – They don’t dissolve and can add to sludge buildup.
- Paper towels – Thicker and slower to break down than toilet paper.
- Anti-bacterial soaps – They kill the helpful bacteria your tank needs. Use biodegradable options instead.
- “Biocompatible soaps” – These often contain additives that aren’t septic-friendly.
- Latex, plastic or metallic objects – None of these belong in any plumbing system.
- Hard toilet paper – Softer toilet paper breaks down more easily in your tank.
- Dead fish or small animals – Your septic tank is not a burial ground.
A simple rule of thumb: If it’s not something your body naturally produces or if it doesn’t say “septic safe” on the label, don’t flush it.
Keeping these items out of your septic system helps avoid blockages, protects your drain field and reduces the need for emergency pump-outs. A little care goes a long way in keeping your system healthy and hassle-free.
2. Don’t pour fats, oils or grease down the drain
They solidify in pipes and tanks, building up over time and causing serious blockages. Let them cool, then dispose of them in the bin.
3. Don’t drive or park on top of your tank or trenches
The weight from vehicles or heavy machinery can damage pipes and compact the soil, which stops your system from draining properly.
4. Don’t plant trees or shrubs near your system
Roots are one of the most common causes of septic problems. They can crack pipes, block drains and damage your tank. Stick to grass or shallow-rooted plants.
5. Don’t ignore your system
Just because everything seems to be working doesn’t mean it is. Without regular maintenance, problems can build up slowly and become costly to fix.
Give Your Septic System Regular Maintenance
Septic systems are reliable when looked after properly. Follow these do’s and don’ts and you’ll avoid most of the common problems homeowners face. If you’re ever unsure about what your system needs, reach out to the team at Ward Septics on +61 438 315 514 for advice or a quick inspection. It’s much easier and cheaper to keep your system in good shape than to repair it once it breaks.
