Maintaining your septic system is crucial not only for the health of your household but also for the environment. In Northwest Arkansas, where the natural beauty of the Ozarks and the quality of local waterways are cherished, proper septic system care plays a significant role in preserving our surroundings. Here’s a look at how maintaining your septic system can positively impact the environment and some tips for eco-friendly septic care.
Protecting Local Waterways
One of the most significant environmental benefits of proper septic system maintenance is the protection of local waterways. Northwest Arkansas is home to many beautiful rivers, lakes, and streams that are vital to the ecosystem and the community. A well-maintained septic system prevents contaminants such as nitrates, phosphates, and harmful bacteria from leaching into the groundwater and eventually into these waterways.
Why It Matters: Contaminated water can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life. It can also make water unsafe for recreational activities and affect the quality of drinking water for nearby communities.
Reducing Groundwater Contamination
Septic systems are designed to treat wastewater naturally by filtering it through the soil. However, if a system is not properly maintained, it can fail and allow untreated wastewater to seep into the ground. This can lead to contaminated drinking water sources such as private drinking water wells.
Why It Matters: Healthy soil is essential for groundwater source protection. Having pooling wastewater and groundwater contamination not only affects you, but those living around you. Not only does it affect their drinking water, but it can also feed into rivers, lakes, and streams. Swim beaches could be closed, rivers cordoned off, and more.
Minimizing Odor and Pooling Sewage
A malfunctioning septic system isn’t just an inconvenience, it can turn your yard into a health hazard. Pooling sewage leads to foul odors, soil contaminated with bacteria and parasites, and in the worst-case scenario, exposure to harmful diseases. Even in the best case scenario, the stench can ruin outside ambiance.
Why It Matters: Protecting the environmental health of NWA protects human health and natural resources that bring in residents and tourists alike. By minimizing pooling sewage and other environmental hazards, we can help protect the environment for future generations in Northwest Arkansas.
Tips for Eco-Friendly Septic Care
Maintaining your septic system with the environment in mind is not difficult, and small changes can make a big difference. Here are some tips for eco-friendly septic care:
1. Regular Inspections and Pumping
Regular inspections and septic pumping are crucial for preventing overflow and ensuring solids are properly broken down. Typically, most systems needs to be pumped every three to five years, depending on usage. Properly calculating this is essential for the prevention of major issues.
2. Use Water Efficiently
Conserving water reduces the load on your septic system. Fix any leaks, install water-saving fixtures, and spread out water usage throughout the day to prevent overloading the system.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Household chemicals, such as bleach, drain cleaners, and pesticides, can disrupt the natural bacteria in your septic tank that break down waste. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and dispose of chemicals properly to maintain the balance of your septic system.
4. Proper Waste Disposal – Including “flushable wipes”
Be cautious of what you flush down the toilet or pour down drains. Items like diapers, menstrual products, paper towels, and non-biodegradable materials can clog your septic system and reduce its efficiency. “Flushable” wipes are also a major offender, while they are marked as flushable, they do not break down like toilet paper and can significantly disrupt your septic system. Proper disposal is essential for maintaining your system’s health.
5. Maintain the Drainfield
Protect your drainfield by not parking vehicles or planting trees over it. Roots can damage the pipes, and compacted soil can prevent proper filtration. Keep the area clear to allow the system to function optimally.
6. Educate Your Household
Ensure that everyone in your household understands how to care for the septic system. Simple actions like not flushing inappropriate items or conserving water can go a long way in maintaining an eco-friendly system.
Conclusion
Proper septic system maintenance is essential for protecting the environment in Northwest Arkansas. By taking care of your septic system, you contribute to the health of local waterways, while reducing water pollution and keeping your septic field free of pooling sewage. Implementing eco-friendly septic care practices helps preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance of our region.
Contact BBB Septic Today
At BBB Septic, we are committed to helping you maintain a healthy and environmentally friendly septic system. Contact us today to schedule your next septic inspection and pumping. Let’s work together to protect the beautiful environment of Northwest Arkansas.
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