Any homeowner who is on a septic system rather than a city sewer hookup knows the importance of regular septic system maintenance and inspections. Whether you have an in-ground or an above-ground septic tank system, the only way to ensure it works properly and does its job is to keep it well maintained and to get a professional inspection done on a regular basis.
Septic system professionals are the best course of help and information as they will have hands-on experience and training with a range of systems. They will know all about septic services that need to be done and will help you watch for early warning signs of issues. With their intense training and know-how, they are much more prepared to deal wot issues than you are. They know all about septic systems and what is needed to keep them working at optimal efficiency.
Finding a professional who is well versed with all types of septic systems is a critical first step to ensuring your system works as it should.
What is a septic tank, and how does a septic system work, you may ask? Septic systems are small-scale sewage treatment systems that don’t connect to public sewers. Many of them are found in older homes or in rural areas where public sewers may not be available. A septic tank is where sewage, such as water waste and human waste, drains. It may be installed all or partially in the ground, and sometimes the tanks are attached to buildings. Tanks are typically between 1,000 and 2,000 gallons (4,000 to 7,500 liters), and have pipes underground that connect to the tank.If you have moved into a new home recently, it may be a home with a septic system instead of public plumbing and water services. While septic systems may require more care than newer or public plumbing systems, they can be just as easy to operate with proper care and maintenance.
How does a septic system work in terms of maintenance? If you have a septic system, typically you will have to have a residential plumbing maintenance company perform a septic pump out every so often. This is usually done with a truck that can remove the waste from the septic tank; frequency of maintenance will depend on the size and usage of the tank. Other maintenance on a septic system may include repairing leaks, removing clogs, and other maintenance issues. It is best to take care of problems when they arise rather than wait, as it can be costly — and even dangerous — to postpone maintenance.
How does a septic system work in terms of any problems or emergencies? In order to avoid problems, be sure to follow the tips of your plumber. Some general guidelines include not planting trees or shrubs too close to the septic tank. You should keep trees at least 100 feet away to decrease the risk of roots growing to a size where they could damage or puncture your septic tank. Another tip for maintaining a septic system is to have a high quality garbage disposal if you need to use one. Many garbage disposals do not grind food waste fine enough, and this can cause clogs in a septic system. Finally, be sure not to dispose of items such as cigarette butts, sanitary products not made for toilets, and excessive oils and grease from cooking, as these can all rapidly clog a septic system.
Plumbing repairs can be costly in any home — with removal of clogs averaging $248 and installation of new pipes at well over $2,000. For homes with septic systems, these numbers can go up by a lot. If you have questions about maintaining a septic system, be sure to contact a qualified residential plumbing company to help address your concerns and avoid these costly emergency repairs.
