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Five Tips for Preventing Septic Backups During Holiday Gatherings

December 24, 2024

Tips to Avoid Septic Backups Over the Holidays

The holiday season brings joy, laughter, and plenty of gatherings with loved ones. But with a house full of guests and extra cooking, cleaning, and laundry, your septic system can feel the pressure. A little preparation can go a long way to avoid stressful septic backups during your celebrations. At Frederick Septic, we’re here to help you keep your system running smoothly so you can focus on enjoying the holidays.

Here are some helpful tips to prevent septic issues this holiday season:

1. Spread Out Laundry Loads

With more people under your roof, the laundry piles up fast! Instead of running back-to-back cycles, spread out laundry loads over several days. This helps reduce strain on your system and gives your drain field time to process water properly.

2. Be Mindful of Water Usage

When guests arrive, water consumption skyrockets from handwashing to showering. Remind everyone to limit showers to a reasonable time and consider staggering washing dishes to prevent overwhelming your septic system. Installing water-efficient fixtures in your home can also help conserve water during high-use periods.

3. Watch What You Flush

Holiday guests may not be familiar with how sensitive septic systems can be. Make sure everyone knows not to flush anything other than toilet paper. Items like wet wipes, feminine products, paper towels, and even so-called “flushable” wipes can cause blockages and wreak havoc on your system.

4. Scrape Plates and Dispose of Grease Properly

All that delicious holiday cooking brings the risk of grease and food waste ending up where it shouldn’t. Scrape plates and pots into the trash before washing dishes, and never pour grease down the drain. Grease can harden in your pipes, leading to clogs and backups.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance

The holidays are busy, but keeping up with routine septic system maintenance is essential. If it’s been a while, consider scheduling a professional inspection or pump-out before the festivities begin. Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues before they become a problem.

Professional Septic Services in Frederick County

When it comes to quality septic system maintenance, Frederick Septic Co. is the name to trust! Since 1983, we have been providing our neighbors with comprehensive septic services, ensuring the longevity of your system. Ready to schedule your routine maintenance?

Contact our team today to get started!