What Can A Septic Service Do For You?

Your septic system's health and maintenance go hand in hand for a well-functioning waste treatment system. Here are some recommendations to help you keep your septic tank and system in good working condition.

Clean Out Your Tank

Regular pumping services to your septic system are essential to keeping it working properly. If you allow your septic tank to become overfilled with solids, the waste will flow out into the drain field and cause clogs, damage, and backups to the system. Arrange for a septic professional to complete a tank pump-out every few years, or as your system requires it. 

The larger your tank's capacity is, the less frequently you will need to pump your tank. However, you will need to give attention to having it pumped. Just because your septic tank is out of sight does not mean it needs to be out of mind. If you are not sure of the capacity of your septic tank or even how full it is currently, your septic professional can measure the contents of the tank. They will want to measure the depth of the waste, including the fluids, solids, and grease layer. If any of these layers is too thick or too much for the tank, you may have damage to the system. 

Your septic professional will also check the interior of the tank for cracks, leaking, or other damage as they service the system. They will clean out the filter and also inspect for blockages in the entrance or egress lines. If your tank has an electronic sensor to measure the tank's levels, they can check these as well to ensure they are functioning properly. 

Maintain Your Yard

As a big part of your septic system and tank health, you need to keep it protected against any vegetation damage or flooding due to excessive soil saturation. At the installation of your septic tank, you should plan to keep it clear of any large vegetation growth, such as shrubbery, trees, and other vegetation that has a large root growth. However, years after your system's installation, root systems can grow into your system or around the drain field, which can cause damage to your system and also backups to the tank. If, for example, your septic drain field becomes clogged with root growth from a nearby tree, it will stop the flow of wastewater, which will back up into the tank and into your home. Each year or whenever you have your septic tank cleaned out, check your landscaping for potential problems that may cause damage to the system.

Also, divert roof runoff and drainage to a location away from your tank and the drain field. Use gutter downspout extensions or other drainage diversion techniques and landscaping to keep the soil around your septic system clear of excess saturation. Call a septic tank cleaning service for additional help.