As the weather conditions change to spring, you may notice that your septic does not run as smoothly as it should. During spring, the ground is prone to dampness as water table levels rise, and this can result in septic system issues such as flooding. If you wonder how to ensure your septic tank continues to run efficiently, you are at the right place. Read on for a guide to maintaining your septic tank in the spring.

Signs Your Septic Tank May Have Problems

If you are unsure whether the septic tank functions properly, look out for the following:

• Puddles or flooding around the drainfield and around the septic tank. Water around these areas indicates that something may be wrong with your septic tank.
• A funky smell near and around your septic tank. This is a telltale sign that your septic tank is overflowing. An overflowing septic tank needs fixing by a septic system expert so the problem does not persist or become bigger.
• Standing water on the septic tank cover. This indicates a clog in the system and will need immediate intervention from an expert.

If you suspect a clog in the system, avoid using harsh chemicals, as these may kill even the good bacteria that benefit the system. Instead, get in touch with an expert who has experience with such issues. They will use specialized equipment to unclog your septic system.

Tips for Maintaining Your Septic Tank System

Below are tips for maintaining your septic tank in the spring.

Review Your Pumping Schedule

You may need to adjust your pumping schedule depending on your household's water usage and size. While a household with three or four people needs to pump the septic tank every few years, a larger family may need to pump annually.

Ideally, you should schedule the pumping in the spring season, as the temperatures and ground conditions make it easier for your technician to service the septic tank.

Inspect the Septic Field and Drainage Area

Examine the septic field for signs of overflow, damage, flooding, or dirt that may have shifted. You can also inspect the drainfield and look at components such as gutters to see if they drain into the field and adjust them to avoid a flood risk. If you have any debris in your storm drains and gutters, clear them too.

Use Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products

The spring is a good time to clean your house indoors and outdoors. However, ensure that your products do not negatively affect your septic system. Some chemicals that you should avoid include chlorine, and even trace amounts could interfere with the bacteria in the tank. A wide variety of natural products in the market will not damage the natural bacteria that work in your septic tank.

Change Septic Tank Filters

Spring is a good time to replace your septic tank filters, as the filters are probably full of gunk and debris from the winter weather. A clogged filter is dangerous and can prevent your entire system from working as it should and damage it. You can replace the filters independently or call a septic tank maintenance professional for help.

Do you need a professional specializing in sewer and septic services? Here at Upstate Septic Tank, LLC, we offer commercial and residential septic services to ensure that your septic system stays healthy all year round. We have experience serving upstate South Carolina and completing all our jobs to the highest standards. Reach out to us today for a free estimate. We will be happy to go over any questions or concerns you may have about your septic tank and spring maintenance tasks.