SYSTEMS TO CONSIDER
The purpose of a septic tank is to still the flow of sewage from your building and contain it long enough for anaerobic bacteria to digest the organic matter. Your septic tank must be watertight and it must be made of a rot, and rust resisting material.
Depending on your budget, and how long you want the system to last, you can choose from a number of tank construction materials. The most common type of septic tank construction is pre-cast concrete. Plastic tanks are available as well. Sizes vary from 1850 liters to 4500 liters for domestic services, with the most common size being 3250 liters capacity.
PROPER MAINTENANCE OF YOUR SYSTEM IS VERY IMPORTANT!
Septic systems need regular maintenance in order to function properly. Neglected septic systems will eventually fail and can cause serious health problems for your family and neighbors.
It is a good idea to keep accurate maintenance, inspection, and pumping records. Every three to five years you should have the tank pumped out by a licensed septic contractor. Also, keep a location map of your septic system and drain field handy for service calls. In addition, never allow anyone to drive across or park over any part of the system.
Practicing water conservation will also help the system. Only run the washer and dishwasher when they are full. Fix leaky toilets and dripping taps. It is also smart to install water saving features on the fixtures. Divert all rainwater away from the septic system and do not allow your sump pump to drain near the septic tank.
Finally, do not empty non-degradable items or poisons into the septic system. The poisons can kill bacteria that are necessary for treating the wastewater.
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS
Improper maintenance of your septic system can cause it to fail. A septic system that is not functioning correctly is a health threat to your family and it will degrade the environment, especially the groundwater. Repairs can be expensive and a damaged system will reduce the value of your property.
Warning signs to watch for include sewage surfacing over the drain field after a storm, sewage back-up in the house, slow draining toilets and drains, sewage odors and lush green growth over the drain field. These warnings should alert the homeowner of a potential septic system problem.
Never allow heavy vehicles to drive over the drain field or septic system on your property. Keeping the drain field free of bushes and shrubs will stop potential problems with roots clogging the conveyance lines. Only a well-kept grassy area should cover the septic system drain field.
CLEANING SERVICES – WHO’S GETTING DIRTY?
A well-maintained septic system will last for 20-years or more. However, the key to longevity is proper care. Hire a professional cleaning service to check the system at least once a year to be sure the conveyance lines, the tank, and the distribution box are all in good working order.
Professionals suggest cleaning the tank every three years, preferably in the spring. Warm weather accelerates bacterial action, so it is best to get rid of the waste before the summer heat. It takes special equipment and training to dispose of waste material correctly, so this is definitely not a do-it-yourself project.
Always keep accurate records of pumping inspections and other maintenance procedures. When maintenance is performed, and the value of the service is over $500, or the drain has been altered, a certificate of compliance must be issued by the plumber or drainer. For ease of service, a map indicating the system and the drains is a useful tool.
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