10 Things You Need to Know About Your Septic System #1. What Kind of Septic System Do You Have? While there are standard systems that consist of a basic septic tank that empties out into a leachfield, there are several variations on that standard set-up that can make a difference in how your septic system operates and the type of maintenance required. If you arent sure what kind of septic system you have, set up an appointment to find out for sure. #2. Where Is Your Septic System Located? The only way you can protect your septic system is knowing where it is located. There are a couple of important rules regarding leachfield care and damage prevention so knowing where yours is located should be at the top of your list. #3. Whenever you buy or sell a home you need to have the tank pumped and the system evaluated. #4. Is Your Septic System Working Properly? Again, You need to have the tank pumped and the system evaluated, Regular check-ups can help you avoid major costs associated with repairs or replacement of septic systems. #5. What Are Some Signs of Septic System Failure? Signs that your system is failing or has failed include sewage or untreated wastewater pooling over the leachfield, backups happening in the bathroom, kitchen or other plumbing areas inside your home, and a horrible odor wafting up from your drains or in your backyard. If this happens, make sure to have it looked at right away. #6. What Maintenance Has Been Done on My System Before? Before you purchase a home, it is important to speak with the seller about the septic system. Questions to ask include the age of the system, the last date that the system was pumped, the frequency of pumping, if there have been any signs of potential failure and whether or not any additions have been made to the house since the septic system was installed. Septic systems are designed based upon the number of bedrooms, which indicate the possible number of persons living in the home. It is important to ensure that the system has been properly maintained and that it can accommodate the usage of the home. #7. What Type of Care is Required for a Septic System? Septic maintenance is the same here as it is anywhere else. The first rule of thumb is to watch your water use so you dont flood the leachfield. Daily water use per person should be around 50 gallons. A leachfield is designed for each home based upon a maximum use of 120 gallons per bedroom. This figure includes laundry, showers, toilet flushes and anything that puts water into the septic tank. Dont put items into your system such as cigarettes, cotton swabs, kitty litter, coffee grounds or sanitary napkins. Never put cooking oil or grease down the drain. Chemicals and cleaning products should not go down the drain either, including pesticides, paints, thinners, poisons an even disinfectants. These chemicals will kill the good bacteria in your system that helps to purify the sewage. #8. What Type of Care is Required for a Leachfield? It is important that to keep an eye on your leachfield to make sure it is safe from damage. The soil over your leachfield should be covered with grass or another safe type of vegetation that wont create deep roots and damage the system. Grass works to prevent the soil from eroding over time. Never drive or park a vehicle over top your leachfield or septic tank. Avoid doing any type of construction over or near the area and never ever cover your tank or leachfield with concrete or asphalt. #9. Are There Any Preventative Maintenance That Can Be Done? Check your home regularly for leaks or dripping faucets to cut down on wastewater in the septic tank. If you have any trees near your system or leachfield, cut them down or move them to another area of your property. Make sure to treat any remaining stumps to prevent continued root growth and spread underground. Make sure none of your gutters are pointing toward your leachfield or your system will quickly become flooded when it rains. #10. Can I Do Repairs Myself? Even if you are completely familiar with your septic tank system setup and have experience working with septic systems in the past, it is in your best interest to hire professional to repair your septic system. Professional services need to be conducted by technicians that are licensed and certified to do the work at hand. Septic systems can be very dangerous and it is in your best interest and safety to hire a professional to get the job done. *Get Started on the Right Track Whether you need your septic system evaluated, maintenance done or repairs to your system. Central Kentucky Septic Service has technicians that are licensed and certified to do the work at hand, We have a preventative maintenance program that is designed to help you save money over the lifetime of your septic system by making sure that everything is in proper working order. For more information call Central Kentucky Septic Service.* 859-879-6682 or 859-753-6070
Posted on: Sun, 19 Jan 2014 15:16:00 +0000
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