Septic issues can be more difficult to spot in the summer months – with less precipitation and hotter temperatures, dry soils can help mask an overfull septic tank or failing lateral lines. If you have a septic system and notice a wet yard around your system components, especially in the dry months, contact a septic professional to have your system inspected. This could be indicative of a problem!
One of the most important ways to care for your septic system is to use water in your home efficiently. The EPA estimates that average water usage is 70 gallons per individual in a typical single-family home, and one leaking toilet or faucet could waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day and all those extra water drops end up in your septic system.
Look for the EPA WaterSense label to find water-efficient products! These products are certified to use 20% less water, save energy, and perform as well as or better than regular models. There are also many tips for conserving water usage in your household, including:
- Turn off the tap while you brush! This could save 4-8 gallons of water a DAY!
- Take a shower rather than a bath! A shower only takes 10-25 gallons of water compared to the 70 gallons a bath takes! Water conservation BONUS – keep your shower under 5 minutes!
- Fix that leak! You could be wasting up to 10,000 gallons of water every year with leaks in your home! Not sure if you have a leak? Refer to this resource to help you investigate!
- Water your yard first thing in the morning – and beat the heat! Watering in high heat causes evaporation, so watering when temperatures are cooler is important for water efficiency!
- Skip the hose! Washing cars and bikes with a bucket and sponge use much less water than hoses – which can waste up to six gallons of water per minute!
If you have addressed a leak in your home recently you might want to consider having your septic system pumped. If you have had your system pumped recently and are still seeing water buildup in your yard, please contact us, we may be able to help you!
CLICK HERE to learn more about our Septic Remediation Program or
E-mail or Program Manager, Shelly Smith for questions or assistance.
