Septic Tank Maintenance Clackamas County

We recommend having your septic tank pumped every 3-5 years, depending on your household size and usage. Regular pumping can help prevent solids from building up and causing damage to your system.

To maintain your septic system, We recommend only flushing the three P’s down your toilet:  poop, pea & paper (toilet paper).   Avoid flushing non-biodegradable materials like wipes, diapers, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet. These items can clog pipes and damage your system over time. Limit the use of harsh cleaners that destroy the bacteria in your system. Keep skid marks off your toilet by placing a sheet in the bowl before your bowel movement.

Other tips for maintaining your septic system include conserving water, fixing leaks promptly, not parking or driving over your drain field, and avoiding pouring chemicals or harsh cleaning products down your drains.

Signs that your septic system is functioning include free-flowing drains, no foul odors around your drain field, and no standing water near your tank or drain field.

While some maintenance tasks like conserving water and avoiding flushing non-biodegradable materials are practiced by homeowners, it’s crucial to have a professional inspect and pump your septic system regularly. A professional can identify potential problems before they become costly repairs and ensure your system functions correctly.