To lower the water level in your septic tank, the most effective strategies involve reducing the amount of water entering the system, repairing leaks, and ensuring non-wastewater sources are not directed into the tank.
The water level in a septic tank can rise due to various reasons, primarily an overload of incoming wastewater or issues with the drain field. Addressing these root causes is key to bringing the level down and maintaining a healthy septic system.
Immediate Actions to Lower Septic Tank Water Level
Taking proactive steps to manage water flow into your septic system can significantly help in lowering and stabilizing the water level.
1. Reduce Household Water Consumption
The less water that goes down your drains, the less water enters your septic tank. This is the most direct way to reduce the water level.
- Shorter Showers: Aim for quicker showers and turn off the water while soaping up.
- Full Loads Only: Run washing machines and dishwashers only when they are completely full. Spreading out laundry loads over several days can also prevent system overload.
- Water-Saving Appliances: Consider upgrading to high-efficiency washing machines and dishwashers, which use significantly less water per cycle.
- Efficient Toilets: Install low-flow or dual-flush toilets, or place a displacement device (like a plastic bottle filled with water) in your toilet tank to reduce water per flush.
2. Identify and Repair Leaks Promptly
Even small leaks can contribute to a significant amount of water entering your septic system over time, unnecessarily raising the water level.
- Check Toilets: A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day. Add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
- Inspect Faucets and Showerheads: Repair dripping faucets and leaky showerheads as soon as you notice them.
- Examine Other Water-Using Devices: Regularly check washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters for any signs of leaks.
3. Divert Non-Wastewater Sources
It's crucial to ensure that only household wastewater enters your septic system. Clean water from other sources can quickly overwhelm the tank and drain field.
- Sump Pump Discharge: Never direct water from a basement sump pump into your septic system. Sump pumps handle groundwater, which is clean and should be discharged away from your house and septic drain field, ideally into a storm drain or a designated area in your yard.
- Gutter Downspouts: Ensure that rainwater from gutter downspouts is directed away from the septic tank and especially the drain field. Saturated soil can prevent the drain field from properly absorbing wastewater.
4. Consider Professional Septic Tank Pumping
If your water level remains high despite reducing water input and fixing leaks, it might indicate that your septic tank is full of solids (sludge and scum) or that your drain field is failing.
- Pumping: Have your septic tank professionally pumped. This removes the accumulated solids, which can free up capacity in the tank and allow it to function more efficiently.
- Drain Field Inspection: If pumping doesn't resolve the issue, a professional can inspect your drain field for signs of clogging or failure, which could be causing the backup and high water level.
Long-Term Strategies for Septic System Health
Maintaining a healthy septic system is crucial for preventing high water levels and ensuring its longevity.
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and pumping of your septic tank, typically every 3-5 years, depending on household size and water usage.
- Proper Waste Disposal: Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, or excessive paper towels. Also, be mindful of what goes down your drains; avoid pouring grease, oil, harsh chemicals, or large quantities of food waste into the system.
- Protect Your Drain Field: Do not drive or park vehicles on your drain field, as this can compact the soil and damage the pipes. Avoid planting trees or shrubs with extensive root systems near the drain field.
Water Conservation at a Glance
Making small changes to your daily habits can have a big impact on your septic system.
| Water-Using Activity | Water-Saving Habit | Potential Savings (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Showering | Shorter showers, turn off water while soaping | 2-5 gallons per minute |
| Toilet Flushing | Install low-flow toilets, check for leaks | 1.6 gallons per flush |
| Laundry | Full loads only, use cold water when possible | 15-45 gallons per load |
| Dishwashing | Full loads only, scrape plates instead of rinsing | 10-25 gallons per load |
| Leaks | Promptly repair drips and running toilets | Hundreds of gallons per day |
By consistently applying these strategies, you can effectively lower the water level in your septic tank and ensure the long-term health and efficiency of your entire septic system. For more detailed information on septic system care, visit the EPA's Septic Systems website.
