6 Drain Field Dos and Don’ts

Your drain field has one of the most complex jobs of your entire septic system. As one of the most intricate and crucial components of your home’s septic system, it’s important to know how to properly take care of your drain field, as this could extend the lifespan of your septic system and prevent costly and uncomfortable system failures. Here are the things you’ll want to practice — and mistakes you’ll want to avoid — when caring for your drain field.

• Do know the location: It’s important to learn and map out where your septic tank and drain field are located, not only for your own knowledge but for professionals servicing your home’s septic system.
• Do plant grass: Grass is the ideal landscape when it comes to a drain field and septic system. Its shallow root system works to help quickly absorb water, while not disrupting your buried septic pipes and tank.
• Do deflect water to avoid soaking drain field: Drain fields can be overworked when downspouts, sump pumps, or pools are drained onto its surface. Take measures to ensure incoming water does not directly soak your drain field.
• Do not cover your drain field: Your septic tank system can be disrupted when it bears the weight of heavy items, which can change the density of your soil and negatively impact drainage. Be sure not to park or drive your car on your drain field and don’t install features like sheds, patios, or carports on top of the area.
• Do not plant trees or shrubs on or near the drain field: Drain lines can be broken or clogged by the deep root systems of this type of greenery.
• Do not flush hazardous liquids: Pool water, paint, medications, or harsh chemicals near your home’s drain field or down the drain of your home’s shower, sink, or toilets can negatively impact your septic system. These liquids can be harmful to the bacteria your septic system depends on to break down waste solids. Without this bacteria populating your septic system, solids can reach the drain field pipes, causing clogs and failure.