Like any other small part with a big job, you might forget about your septic tank filter. It’s important to clean or replace it regularly, but when? Let’s take a closer look.
Why It’s Important to Change Your Septic Tank Filter
Replacing your septic tank filter provides the following benefits for you and your septic system.
- Improve your septic system’s efficiency.
- Increase your septic system’s lifespan.
- Prevent unexpected problems from occurring.
- Protect your pipes from clogging.
- Save yourself money on repairs and replacements.
How Often Should You Replace Your Septic Tank Filter?
Your septic filter’s lifespan depends on several variables, including the manufacturer, your level of septic system maintenance, and the number of occupants within your house. However, it is a good rule of thumb to replace your filter every 3-5 years, or as often as you have your septic tank professionally pumped.
How to Change or Clean a Septic Tank Filter
So, exactly how do you replace a septic tank filter? Fortunately, it’s pretty easy. Simply take the following steps.
1. Unscrew and open the tank.
First things first: remove the lid. Depending on the type of tank you have, your tank’s lid might be concrete, or it could be plastic. Unscrew it or lift it off the tank to reach the filter.
2. Remove the filter from the baffle.
A septic tank’s “baffle” refers to the place where the pipes run in and out. The filter prevents thick sludge from mixing with the effluent and escaping through the pipe. You can use a rake to remove the septic tank filter or use gloved hands. Make sure to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
3. Check for damage.
Examine the plastic filter for broken pieces or damage. A broken filter may have trouble doing its job, so it is important to replace broken filters, not just clean them.
4. If cleaning, hose filter off with water.
If your filter only needs to be cleaned and not entirely replaced, use a spray nozzle to hose off the excess waste. You can rinse the waste directly back into the septic tank. Be prepared for some backsplash, so cover your eyes and mouth with appropriate gear.
5. If changing, safely dispose of filter.
If you are replacing the filter entirely, make sure you rinse it off before properly disposing of or recycling the plastic piece.
6. Replace filter.
Take your new filter and slip it back into the baffle the same way it came out.
Additional Septic Maintenance Tips
You can also care for your septic system by employing the proper maintenance.
1. Schedule professional septic system inspections.
Annual septic system tune-ups go a long way in saving you money on repairs. You should also have your septic system pumped every 3-5 years.
2. Be kind to your plumbing.
Avoid flushing non-flushable items such as paper towels, baby wipes, and feminine products. Try not to put anything down your drains besides gray water.
3. Nip small problems in the bud.
Making repairs early prevents long-term problems from developing. This saves you money and increases your system’s lifespan.
How Can We Help?
Norway Septic Inc. is a service-oriented company dedicated to providing excellent septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to homeowners and business owners in the Michiana area. We take pride in doing the job that others leave behind. If you need a new effluent filter or if you would like to schedule a septic tank cleaning by one of our professionals, call us today.
