Why Filters Matter
Filters may be small, but they help in big ways:
- Protect your drainfield. Drainfields are expensive to replace. The filter helps prevent clogs that can ruin it.
- Improve system lifespan. A filter helps everything flow better, making your entire system last longer.
- Identify and remove items that shouldn’t be there. Think wipes, paper towels, or toys flushed by curious kids.
Skipping filter maintenance is one of the top reasons why septic systems fail. Even if you’re keeping up with septic cleaning, a clogged filter can prevent the entire system from functioning properly.
How Often Should You Clean the Filter?
Good question! Most filters require cleaning every time your tank is pumped, which is typically every 3 to 5 years. However, some filters get dirty faster, especially if your family uses a lot of water or flushes things they shouldn’t.
A trusted septic company can recommend the optimal schedule for your home's septic system. If you experience frequent backups or slow drains, it could be a sign that your filter is already clogged.
Septic Blue of Charlotte recommends checking your filter between pumpings if you notice gurgling sounds or smells near your yard or drains. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Can You Clean It Yourself?
Technically, yes. But it’s not the cleanest job.
You’ll need gloves, a hose, and probably a mask—the smell can be intense. The filter is pulled out of the tank and rinsed until all the debris is removed. Still, most homeowners prefer to let the pros handle it during their regular septic service.
If you’re unsure where your filter is located or how to access it, it’s best to contact a septic company. Trying to find it on your own could damage other parts of the tank or result in a smelly mess.
What Happens If You Don’t Have One?
Without a filter, your system has to work harder. Solids that should stay in the tank might reach your drainfield and clog the soil. When that happens, water can back up into your home or bubble up in your yard.
Replacing a drainfield is one of the most expensive services for a septic system, so it’s worth installing a filter if your system doesn’t already have one. Septic Blue of Charlotte has installed filters on older systems for many homeowners, and the difference in performance is noticeable.
Signs It’s Time to Clean or Replace Your Filter
Here are some clues your filter might need attention:
- Toilets flushing slowly
- Bad smells near the tank or drains
- Gurgling sounds from pipes
- Frequent backups or pooling water in the yard
These are also signs that it may be time for septic cleaning or a full inspection. Don’t ignore them—small issues can turn into big ones fast.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your System Healthy
A septic filter may not seem like a significant concern, but it’s one of the most effective tools for protecting your system. It keeps your drainfield safe, helps your tank run more smoothly, and catches things that shouldn’t be flushed.
Whether your system is brand new or decades old, a quick check with your local septic company can help you determine if your filter is functioning properly or if you even have one. Septic Blue of Charlotte recommends regular maintenance, not just for your tank, but for every part of your septic setup.
Ready to Protect Your Septic System?
If it’s been a while since your last septic pumping or if you’ve never had your filter checked, now’s the time. Don’t wait for a backup or bad smell to take action. Contact your local experts to schedule a filter check, inquire about septic cleaning services, or book your next septic service appointment. Septic Blue of Charlotte is here to help you keep things flowing the right way—clean, easy, and stress-free.
