How can homeowners prevent septic system failure?

Homeowners can prevent septic system failure by conserving water usage. Conserving water reduces the volume of wastewater entering the septic system. When a septic system receives more wastewater than it can handle, it risks overflowing or backing up, leading to system failure. Proper water conservation techniques, such as fixing leaks, using high-efficiency fixtures, and spreading out laundry loads throughout the week, can keep the septic system functioning effectively.

The other options, while they may have some benefits in other contexts, do not contribute positively to the maintenance of a septic system. Decorative landscaping does not influence the function of the septic system directly, and excessive use of chemical cleaners can disrupt the natural bacterial balance necessary for breaking down waste in the septic tank. Reducing soil drainage may lead to waterlogged soil, which can hinder the proper absorption of effluent from the septic system, further increasing the risk of failure.