Prep Your Septic

September 8, 2025

Septic Systems, Tips & Tricks

When you’re heading out of town for more than a few days, don’t just pack your bags. Prep your septic system before you lock the door. Extended time away from home can lead to surprises when you return, especially if your system hasn’t been properly maintained. A little planning now can help prevent odors, backups, or even costly repairs later.

Pump and Prep Your Septic Before You Lock Up

One of the smartest things you can do before an extended absence is schedule a septic pump-out. If it has been over three years since your last service or you’ve had heavy use recently, it’s time. An emptied tank lowers the chance of buildup, overflow, or root intrusion while you’re gone. This is also a great time to request a basic system inspection. If your drains have been gurgling or slow, don’t ignore it. Fixing an issue now is a lot easier than coming home to a full-blown mess.

Turn Off Water Sources and Secure Your Plumbing Before Leaving

To prep your septic the right way, shut off your home’s water at the main valve. This prevents unnoticed leaks that could overload your system. Even a small, constant drip from a faucet or toilet can stress your tank over time. Make sure dishwashers, washing machines, and irrigation systems are turned off as well. It’s also smart to flush your pipes with clean water before you leave so nothing sits stagnant.

Keep Solids and Grease Out of the Lines

Avoid washing fats, oils, or solids down the drain—whether you’re leaving town or not. These materials never belong in a septic system. They don’t break down properly and will cause buildup that leads to clogs, odors, or worse. Always use a sink strainer and dispose of grease in the trash, not the drain. Keeping these out of your system is one of the easiest ways to avoid costly damage, both now and in the long run.

Prep Your Septic with HomeField East Valley

Being away gives your septic system a break. But that doesn’t mean it should be out of mind. This is the perfect time to schedule your next maintenance service or sign up for a HomeField Advantage Plan. When you’re enrolled, we take care of the details and keep everything on track. If you’re not on a plan yet, we can help you get one started before your trip.

When you prep your septic before vacation, you’re protecting your home and your wallet. A little prevention goes a long way, and we’re here to help make it simple.

Heidi

Heidi is the marketing and business development powerhouse at HomeField Onsite Environmental. She’s all about bringing the onsite wastewater world to life with knowledge, humor, and straight-up valuable insights—helping customers make the best decisions for their systems!