The Importance Of Regular Septic Tank Maintenance
RH Business Marketing Solutions
Homeowners have a lot of responsibilities to deal with when it comes to maintaining their property. One of the most important responsibilities is the home's septic and sewer system.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are four elements necessary to maintain a septic system. These are:
Have the system inspected and pumped frequently
Practice the efficient use of water
Dispose of waste properly
Keep the drainfield maintained
Inspection and Pumping
All wastewater coming from the home (showers, sinks, washing machines, garbage disposal, faucets, toilets) is filtered through the septic system. To ensure the system remains up to the task and operates efficiently, schedule regular inspections and have the tank pumped. When and how often these two steps are performed depends on several factors. These include:
The number of people residing in the home
The total amount of wastewater being generated
The ratio of solids to the amount of wastewater
The size of the septic tank
With a standard septic tank system and an average-sized household, an inspection should be scheduled every one to three years.
During an inspection, the septic service provider will check the scum and sludge levels within the tank. Scum is the top layer of materials floating in the tank and sludge is the accumulation of solids that have collected at the bottom of the tank.
The service provider will then determine if the septic tank needs to be pumped. The frequency of pumping can vary based on the scum and sludge levels and typically ranges between three and five years.
Reasons to Maintain Your Septic and Sewer System
System Functionality
Like any other feature in the home that is subject to round-the-clock usage, proper maintenance of the septic system ensures it functions at its best. With scheduled inspections, potential problems can be corrected before they cause a system breakdown, which could lead to costly repairs.
Investment Security
As an investment, maintaining your home's property value is a priority. This means all features of the home must remain in top condition. A septic system plays a big role in calculating property value. If the system is allowed to fall into disrepair, it can negatively impact the value of the home.
Environmental Responsibility
A septic system is a haven for harmful germs and bacteria. If the system is not properly maintained and the integrity of the system is compromised, it can lead to leakage. This creates a hazardous situation when contaminated wastewater in the tank bypasses the drainfield and is instead released into the ground.
Avoid Sewage Backup
Maintaining a schedule to have the system inspected, pumped and cleaned on a regular basis can help eliminate backups and clogs in your drains. This helps avoid the possibility of smelly backflow into your house and yard.
Avoid a Damaged Drainfield
If the septic tank has not been inspected or pumped within the recommended time ranges, there may be unseen problems. The tank may be filled with solids that are slowly making their way to the drainfield, creating a clog. This can lead to a damaged drainfield that will need to be replaced.
Avoid Clogged Drains
Remember: The drains in your home are the gateway to the septic system. Whatever goes down the drains will affect the functionality of the system.
While the septic system is often out of sight, it should not be out of mind. Just because you cannot see issues does not mean none exist. The reasons to invest in professional maintenance far exceed any reasons not to. Scheduling regular maintenance is a sure way to avoid high-dollar repair and replacement costs.
Author Bio: Brady Alexander is the founder of S&B Septic and Sewer. He started the company with a goal in mind to provide the best around-the-clock service in North Texas. With over 20 years of experience, he prides himself on efficiency, effectiveness and, most importantly, honesty.
Resources:
https://www.epa.gov/septic/why-maintain-your-septic-system
https://www.epa.gov/septic/how-care-your-septic-system
https://www.a1tank.net/5-benefits-of-routine-septic-tank-cleaning https://canyonhillsplumbing.com/septic-tank-maintenance-why-its-essential https://www.johnklineseptic.com/the-importance-of-regular-septic-tank-pumping-a-maintenance-checklist-for-property-owners