As masters of all things plumbing indoor and outdoor, Roto-Rooter Minneapolis professionals are well-versed in all areas of sewage, including septic tanks. Those who are new to the septic tank world may not even know what the purpose of these devices is. However, for those that have recently moved into a home with a septic tank, it is important to learn all about them.

What is a Septic Tank?

Septic tanks may look like mysterious eyesores underground near the home—but they serve a useful purpose. Simply put, septic tanks break down and separate human waste that comes from a household that is not connected to a municipal sewer system. Septic tanks contain natural“good” bacteria, which helps to process waste. While the tank does a lot of the work, homeowners must have them pumped out on a regular basis when they become full. For most homes, this is necessary every two or three years but more often if there are several occupants in the house.

Tips for Maintaining a Septic Tank

Those who have septic tanks will find that life with a broken or full one can prove rather messy and inconvenient. Here are a few tips from the trusted professionals at Roto-Rooter Minneapolis to help sustain these vital plumbing components:

• Do Not Flush Unnecessary Waste

Residents that rely on a septic system must avoid putting things into the system that the septic tank cannot handle. By controlling what goes into the septic tank, homeowners can save themselves a great deal of frustration. Septic tanks are designed to break down organic matter and toilet paper—anything else should not go into the tank. Instead, simply throw away items such as sanitary pads, paper towels, cotton swabs and cotton balls.

• Keep Control on the Liquid

Septic tanks run optimally when they are presented with a nice balance of fluids and solids. If there is too much liquid—water—present in the system, it can overflow the tank and force matter to spill over into the yard. By practicing normal conservation methods, such as taking shorter showers and only washing full laundry loads, people can prevent this embarrassing mess from occurring.

Roto-Rooter Minneapolis Provides Septic Tank Care

According to the professionals at Roto-Rooter Minneapolis, it is imperative to have septic tanks cleaned on a regular basis. Roto-Rooter Minneapolis can provide assistance to pump and haul away septic tank waste to the proper location, following all environmental laws and disposal rules that are in place. In addition to regular maintenance, Roto-Rooter Minneapolis offers septic tank repair services to make sure that any emergencies are swiftly avoided.