Your septic tank is something you use every day you live in your home, but if you are like most people, you don't think very much about it. Taking care of your septic tank will help you avoid overflow, damage to the sewer lines and other problems; here are some tips to use to keep your tank in good condition.

Use Jars for Used Oil

You might think nothing of pouring hot, used olive, vegetable and corn oil down the drain when you're cleaning out pots and pans. However, these oils can solidify as they cool, which may cause clogs in your pipes and sewer lines. Not only that, but should these oils make it to your septic tank, they will float to the top of the tank with the other solids, and may cause your tank to need pumping more than usual.

Therefore, to avoid this problem, keep glass jars near your kitchen sink and instead of pouring oils down the drain, pour them into the jars. When the jars are full, dispose of them with the rest of your household trash.

Avoid Bleaches and Acids

Your septic tank contains bacteria that breaks down the waste and solids. When you use the wrong chemicals to clean household items, you might accidentally reduce the amount of bacteria, which might lead to clogs and more frequent pumping of the tank. Commercial cleaners that contain acids and bleaches are some chemicals to avoid.

You can instead use nontoxic cleaners to do your household cleaning. Natural substances like baking soda and vinegar can also be used and won't affect the bacteria in your septic tank.

Have Your Tank Pumped Regularly

To keep your septic tank functioning properly, it is a good idea to have it pumped every few years. Scum and waste accumulate in the tank and if you don't do anything, your tank may overflow into the drain field or back up into pipes, toilets and sinks in your home.

Having your tank pumped every three years or so will allow you to clean out the tank, but it will also allow a contractor to examine the tank for any damage as well.

Use the information in this article to help you keep your septic tank in good condition. For more ideas about how to best maintain your tank, get in touch with a local contractor, such as Rob's Septic Tanks Inc, who can check out your system and offer you suggestions.