Septic systems live their entire lives underground and silently do their job of processing household wastewater without complaint. Although they can be largely ignored by homeowners, septic systems should be regularly pumped out and maintained to promote their longevity and prevent a nasty backup at the worst time.

Many homeowners shy away from proactive pumping because of the cost. Who wants to pay for something no one can see? This is a problem though because the more buildup a septic tank has the more likely it is to clog or fail. 

Thankfully, there are many ways to save money on your property's septic system maintenance. Here are some tips:

Tip: Be Mindful of Household Waste Going Down Drains

Your home's septic system is designed to process bathroom waste. However, it is not really designed to process waste from a garbage disposal, paper products, or cleaning products.

To promote septic health and save on your pumping bills, it is vital to be mindful of the waste products going down your home's drains. 

For example, if you have a garbage disposal and grind up a lot of food containing grease or bones, then this material will sit in the tank until it is pumped. Many of the foods you grind up can't be digested by the bacteria in the tank. This also goes for paper products.

In addition, if you use harsh cleaners to clean sinks or toilets, then they flow down into the septic tank and will kill the tank's healthy bacteria. If the bacteria die, then the system cannot process any waste in the tank and it will build up.

Tip: Ensure the Septic Tank Cover Is Accessible for Pumping

One of the costs of pumping out a septic tank is the labor required to dig out the tank's lid. Since septic tanks are many feet below the surface, it can take some effort to dig and find the lid. 

To make pumping and tank lid excavation a lot easier, you can have a riser pipe installed on the septic tank. A riser pipe is an access port that is at the surface or buried right below. Risers make tank lids simple and quick to access and this will save you money on every pump out because no one will have to dig and look for the lid.

Tip: Pump on a Regular Schedule

Finally, it is vital to pump your septic tank every few years to ensure the tank is empty and the system is functioning as it should.

To save money, many plumbing companies offer a savings program for customers who regularly utilize their services. If you sign up for pumping every few years, then you will pay less than if you pump at will.

Contact a local septic pumping company, such as DWR Waste Removal & Septic, to learn more.