Septic
Septic System Care & Education
A healthy septic system can last for decades. Here is how to get the most out of yours and steer clear of an expensive surprise.
Caring for your system
- Keep the drain field mowed and clear, and do not let trees grow on it. Roots get into the pipes and cause the field to fail.
- Do not park, drive on, or build over the drain field. Compacting it can ruin the system.
- Watch for PVC pipes sticking up out of the ground. They are easy to hit with a mower, and they should be replaced if they break.
- Keep an eye out for gophers in the drain field. They can cause failures too.
- Be careful what you flush. Wipes, grease, and chemicals are hard on a septic system.
- Have the tank pumped every two to three years so solids do not reach the drain field.
What to expect
Once a drain field fails, a new one has to be installed, and that is a big bill. A little care and a regular pumping schedule go a long way. If you ever are not sure how your system is doing, give us a call.
Good questions
Septic Education FAQs
How often should the tank be pumped?
Every two to three years for most households. Pumping keeps solids from building up and reaching the drain field, which is the part you really want to protect.
What should I keep out of the system?
Wipes (even the flushable kind), grease, paint, harsh chemicals, and anything that does not break down. They clog lines and stress the system.
Why can I not park on the drain field?
The weight compacts the soil and can crush the pipes, and once the field fails it has to be replaced. Keep vehicles and structures off of it.
How do I know if my system is failing?
Slow drains, odors, soggy spots or lush grass over the drain field, or an alarm. If you notice any of those, call us before it gets worse.
Related services
Serving Bemidji, Laporte, Park Rapids, Walker, Cass Lake, Hackensack, and Longville, plus the surrounding lake country.
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42554 County 45, Laporte, MN 56461
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