A septic effluent filter (or a grey water filter) can substantially extend the useful life expectancy of a well-maintained drainfield and septic tank. Some individuals opt out of using a septic filter because they see it as just one more thing that will require maintenance.

It’s true, if you don’t clean out your septic filter regularly, septic tank performance may be seriously hindered. However, cleaning out or replacing a septic filter is a relatively simple and easy task when compared to the hassle and expense of repairing a drainfield or septic tank. If a filter makes it less likely that you’ll need septic tank or drainfield repairs, it may be worth it.

Cleaning a Septic Filter

Cleaning a septic filter or greywater filter is a relatively easy process. One of the best opportunities for this critical maintenance task is whenever you get your septic tank pumped. Once your tank is empty, it will be easy to remove the filter without having all the unfiltered wastewater flow into your drain field. Pump the septic tank, open the access cover, remove the filter, and wash it down with a hose. After that, just put the filter back in its place and you are done.

Additional Tips

  • Whenever you are performing just about any septic maintenance which involves actually opening up the access cover, it’s always a good idea to shut off the water to your home. This will help avoid sending any wastewater into the septic tank while you are in it. In the case of cleaning the filter, it avoids having unfiltered wastewater flow into the drainfield while the filter is removed.
  • You may want to check for a clogged filter every so often. One good way to gauge whether your septic filter may be clogged is to simply check the water level of your septic tank. If the water level is unusually high, it may be a sign that you’ve got a clogged filter and it’s causing a backup.

Remember, a septic filter is not an absolute necessity. If you pump your septic tank often, avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) down the drain, and you use the appropriate septic cleaning products, you may not require a filter. Maxx’s Products offers a variety of excellent septic maintenance products that can help you better maintain your system with or without a filter. Call us today for more information.

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