If you are owning a house that depends on a septic tank, get ready for certain challenges. To fight these challenges, maintaining your septic tank has the utmost importance. A septic tank is a great substitute for a municipal sewage system. The proper functionality allows a clean and convenient lifestyle you must be looking forward to. However, the only slight drawback is the limited capacity available which means you need to empty the tank at some point. There are some indications that require immediate attention – empty the septic tank! If you are new to this concept, here we have discussed everything you need to know. Let’s check out these warning signs and get started.
How Septic Tank Operate
Whether you have a single or multi-chambered septic tank, all you need to do is separate the liquid left-over from the solid one. The light solid waste mix along the oil and grease and form a layer of scum. On the other hand, the thick solids go to the bottom of the tank forming a sludge layer. This waste streams out of the chamber into the drainage field. The liquidated waste is spread across the surrounding soil letting the waste-degrading bacteria to eliminate the remaining waste.
Septic Tank: Inspect & Pump
On average, the septic system should be thoroughly examined once in a minimum of three years. These tanks are usually pumped between 3-5 years. On the other hand, unconventional systems with mechanical components and electric float switches should be checked more frequently, typically once a year. We recommend you to consult Septic Tank Pumping in Conyers GA to get the job done perfectly. Some of the factors influencing the frequency of septic tank pumping include the size, volume of waste generated, and household size.
Septic Tank Pumping Cost
Primarily depending on the national and regional average, you can expect the average cost of pumping a septic tank somewhere between $200 – $600. However, it depends on the size of your household and the tank as well. Let’s talk more specifically – If your septic tank needs pumping every five years, the yearly cost comes out to be approximately $60. This cost is comparatively less than the expenses of the sewage management system.
Here we have discussed some of the signs that your septic tank needs to be pumped.
Odor
Since the wastewater will be flowing, it is no surprise that the smell is going to be quite unpleasant. Also, it can be noticed immediately. If you find any undesirable smell around the septic tank, it shows that the tank is either full or about to get full. It can also be a sign of leakage. With that being said, look for a solution as quickly as possible.
Sewage Backup In Drains
One of the most obvious indications of a blocked septic tank is the sewage backup in drains. You will commonly see this in the sinks across your household especially those located nearby the tank. Sewage backup can be quite problematic and must not be ignored. It can carry bacteria that can be a potential threat to your wellbeing.
GREEN!
If you are observing the lawn grass growing green and healthy out of nowhere, it is alarming. This is a very obvious indication that your septic needs to be cleaned and pumped. Considering the waste flowing out, the plant life will immediately benefit from it. In case you come across an extremely green and bright lawn patch, check out your septic tank before it gets worse.
Burbling Water
If you hear any gurgling sounds in the pipes, do not overlook them. Be very careful if these sounds are more consistent. This is an obvious indication that your septic tank is full and needs to be cleaned. Well, do not be scared of this ghost-like sound! It’s nothing else but your septic tank. Besides, if you hear these sounds after flushing, it may be an indication of other problems too.
Multiple Drains Come Out Slow
In the case of one slow drain, it can be due to the clog formation which is directly secured to the drain. However, if you see that multiple drains have slowed down, this means the obstruction is not only limited to one localized area. When waste builds up in the septic tank, the passage of water becomes slow. If this waste is not cleared out, the situation can get worse.
Standing Water
If your septic tank is full, you are more likely to notice the signs of water pooling all across the yard. These can be particularly those areas that are located near the septic tank. Nothing can be worse than standing water. Not only it soon results in an undesirable smell but can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria and contaminants.
Let’s take a look at some of the important maintenance tips for your septic tank.
- Thoroughly inspect and pump the tank every few years
- Avoid using drain cleaners or chemical pipes
- Try not to overuse water since the tank can be overflowed with greywater
- Do not drain a lot of cooking oil or chemicals in the sink
- Keep the rainwater away from the drain field otherwise, it can interfere with the water disposal
Wrapping Up
Any problems related to your septic tank will affect your routine household functioning. Therefore, it’s important to maintain your tank to make it operate in the best possible way. While many homeowners are often confused about whether their septic tanks need to be cleaned and pumped, the above-listed warning signs will certainly help you out. Don’t forget to mark your calendar and ask the service provider to recommend you the next pumping and cleaning time. For any queries, you can write to us in the comment section below. We will be happy to respond to you as soon as possible.
