A septic system is an onsite sewage facility that is used to collect, treat and dispose of wastewater from homes and businesses that are not connected to a municipal sewer system. While septic systems are effective at handling household waste, they require proper maintenance to function properly. Ignoring septic maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or environmental issues down the road. This article will discuss some important septic solutions to keep systems working well and protect homeowner investments and the surrounding environment.
Inspecting and Pumping Regularly
One of the most important septic solutions is routine inspection and pumping. Septic tanks need to be inspected by a professional every 3 to 5 years to check the level of solids in the tank. When solids and scum build up too high in the tank, they can be pumped out through the outlet baffle and into the drainfield. This causes clogs and system failure. Pumping is recommended whenever sludge and scum combined reach 1/3 of the tank’s depth.
During inspection, professionals can also check for leaks or cracks in the concrete tank. The tank lid is examined to ensure it is securely on and watertight. The discharge filter is inspected for clogs or damage. Any issues detected during inspection should be promptly addressed to avoid bigger problems down the road. Routine pumping removes built up solids before they can cause clogging and damage, extending the life of the overall system.
Proper Maintenance and Care
Beyond regular inspections and pumping, homeowners need to practice proper Septic System maintenance and care. What goes down the drain has a big impact on how well a system functions. Grease, fat, oil, and things like disposable wipes can coat the interior of pipes and tanks, increasing the frequency of needing pumped. Homeowners should dispose of fats, oils and grease in the trash rather than pouring them down drains. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed.
The area over the drainfield should also be properly maintained. It’s important not to drive or park vehicles on the drainfield which can compact the soil and damage distribution pipes. Planting deep-rooted trees or shrubs over the field is also discouraged as roots can clog and destroy pipes. Proper moisture levels must be maintained in the field as well. Adding water during dry conditions keeps the soil active to break down and treat wastewater properly. Over-watering can flood and saturate the soil, preventing it from absorbing septic effluent.
Keeping a record of septic system location, inspection reports, pumping receipts and any repairs made also aids future maintenance when selling a home or changing ownership. This ensures proper care and documentation of the system’s condition over time. Maintaining mature trees and shrubs around the drainfield helps retain moisture, filters wastewater, and allows for evaporation.
When to Repair or Replace
While routine maintenance can significantly extend a septic system’s lifespan, eventually repairs or replacement will likely be needed. Some signs that warrant professional evaluation include: sewage odors inside the home or over the drainfield; pooling water or muddy spots on the field; slow draining toilets, sinks or drains; or buzzing or gurgling sounds in the plumbing system.
Repairs may be necessary for broken or collapsed distribution pipes, cracked concrete tanks, collapsed lids or baffles not functioning properly. More serious issues could require full system replacement. Factors like the type of soil, household water usage and system age help determine if repair is viable versus a full replacement. In most cases, replacing an old septic system is less expensive thanrepeat repairs or allowing conditions to worsen.
Modern septic technologies offer upgrades from traditional gravel media or chamber systems. Membrane bio-reactors, constructed wetlands and aerobic treatment units can significantly reduce nitrogen and treat wastewater to higher standards in space-limited properties. For hard-to-service sites, above-ground septic tanks are now available. When replacing older failing systems, it’s wise to research the latest approved design options.
Protecting Investment and Environment
When properly maintained through regular service, protective landscaping and following usage guidelines, septic systems can effectively treat household waste for 20 to 30 years. Ignoring maintenance issues not only risks costly repairs down the road, but it also poses environmental and potential health concerns. Wastewater contamination from a failing septic system can pollute nearby wells, lakes and rivers. Bacteria and nutrients like nitrogen can impair drinking water sources and pollute recreational areas.
Taking proactive septic solutions helps homeowners protect both their property investment and surrounding environment.Small, preventative steps make a big difference in a system’s longevity and performance over its lifetime. With some basic care and periodic professional service, septic systems provide an economical and ecological way to manage onsite wastewater for many homes and businesses.
In summary, septic systems require proper long-term maintenance and care to function as designed. Regular inspection, pumping, controlled usage, and protective site practices help ensure a septic system’s mechanical parts and drainfield work effectively for treating household waste. When combined with educational awareness about system usage guidelines, preventative solutions can greatly extend a septic investment for decades while safeguarding local water sources. With the right proactive maintenance approach, home septic systems deliver eco-friendly wastewater solutions for non-sewered properties.